What term describes a method to provide relief for those affected by a zoning ordinance without entirely departing from its intent?

The term that describes a method to provide relief for those affected by a zoning ordinance without completely deviating from its intent is "variances." A variance is a legal exception that allows a property owner to use their land in a way that does not conform to the existing zoning laws. This mechanism is crucial because it acknowledges that strict adherence to zoning regulations may sometimes result in undue hardship for specific property owners.

For example, if a zoning ordinance restricts building heights and a property owner wishes to construct a slightly taller structure due to specific site conditions, they can seek a variance. This allows adjustments to the regulations while still maintaining the general purpose and goals of the zoning ordinance.

While floating zones, district planning, and urban planning relate to zoning and land use, they do not specifically focus on providing individualized relief from strict zoning rules like variances do. Floating zones involve pre-designated areas where specific uses can occur without amend their zoning classifications outright. District planning focuses on the comprehensive approach to land use in defined areas. Urban planning encompasses broader considerations that include zoning but is not a method specifically aimed at granting relief from existing ordinances. Variances uniquely address exceptions on a case-by-case basis, making them the correct answer in this context.