I live in Phoenix, Arizona and would like to convert my carport into a bedroom/bathroom.

I submitted plans to the city but hit a zoning barrier. Converting the carport into a residential zone requires a variance to allow for parking on the driveway which is within the front yard setback.

I am looking for advice, alternatives, or experiences that anybody has had regarding variances. Obtaining a variance seems like a daunting task, and I would like to gauge whether it would be worth the effort.