The word gerbil is a diminutive form of  jerboa , though the jerboas are an unrelated group of rodents occupying a similar ecological niche.
A variance is a form of equitable relief that allows a property owner to bypass local zoning laws so they can use their land in the most efficient manner possible. When unusual circumstances make it difficult for a property owner to comply with local zoning laws, cities and counties may grant what are known as variances to allow property owners to circumvent the traditional zoning laws in an area.
What Is A Zoning Variance? A Zoning Variance is an authorization granted under law by the Zoning Board of Appeals, waiving a requirement of the zoning code. In effect, a Variance is an exception to the zoning laws, which can only be granted when specific standards or criteria are met.