not entirely sure about the rules where you are...i am in JAA land...but think our regs were the same as your before JAA.
special VFR can be requested by the piolt..not offered by ATC.
it allows a pilot in a control zone only ( not outside ) to operate to less stringent requirements than those applying to VFR...such as ( accepting the 500 foot rule at all times )..( except for helicopters )...clear of cloud and in sight of the ground or water...and at night with a night rating outside the hours VFR....
in JAA land we now have another limitation of not less tha 3kms visibility but i can't recall if that applies to you...i think it does...maybe miles in your case.
SVFR flights may not land or depart aerodromes if the visibility is less tha 3kms or the cloud base is less than 500 feet.( JAA )
some of that may help you alpha w.
the dean.