Need Help - Parking space requirements/ordnances and variances.

[Adam Craig]

One of our latest projects to date is in a downtown area and has ZERO designated parking spots which I knew going into it. Pics of the building here www.cleinvest.com/113main

We have a daycare business that wants 5000 SF on first level so we are trying to work through parking requirements. Not having purchased a commercial building with no parking, I had a rude awakening today talking to the city zoning department about parking ordnances for different types of business. I wrongly assumed because a bank and other businesses occupied this building years ago, customers just park on street and public lots nearby and walk to the building. The zoning department explained to me the city parking ordnances for different types of space and said I will have to apply for a variance if the business cannot comply to minimum designated parking spots, but I am still bit confused/concerned.

There are many similar buildings without parking nearby and they seem to be operating. Are they leaving the city in the dark and not having their tenants get occupancy permits or can I expect to have success getting a variance accepted?