How to Obey Zoning Ordinances

Zoning ordinances are regulations on land use that are established by a city or county government. Every plot of land falls into one of several categories of zoning use, including commercial and residential buildings. As a homeowner or business person, you need to obey zoning ordinances in order to avoid costly penalties and legal fees.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Comply With Property Zoning Laws

1. Work with your city's zoning board to determine the applicable ordinances and regulations that govern your property. All properties, with the exception of federal facilities and bases, are governed by city boards devoted to zoning ordinance enforcement. You can locate your community's zoning body through the MuniCode website (see Resources below).
2. Determine your primary usage of property before making a purchase. The overarching goal of zoning ordinances is to regulate the type of activities conducted on land, with an eye toward future developments and the needs of neighboring property owners. There are a number of different zoning categories, including public use, residential and manufacturing.
3. Observe provisions in a zone ordinance that dictate the setback line for buildings. The setback line determines the minimum distance that a structure must be built from its property line. You should also understand how to obey setback rules when you construct fences or barriers around your property.
4. Locate the green-space provisions provided by your municipality's zoning code. The trend among major metropolitan areas is to force new property owners to include trees, grass and bushes in order to improve the appearance of the community. These provisions typically provide a percentage of land that must be devoted to green spaces.
5. Make sure you obey zoning regulations that limit the number of buildings on a property. These limitations are meant to balance the threat of overcrowding with the ability of property owners to expand their homes or businesses over time.
6. Speak with neighboring property owners to determine how they deal with similar zone ordinances. By reviewing the approach that other owners have taken to zoning laws, you can make an informed decision before you build on your new property.

Tips & Warnings

• Seek a zoning variance for any adjustments or changes that you need to make on a property. For example, you may find that the amount of paved space allowed by an ordinance creates unsafe driving conditions for your restaurant. You must approach the city zoning board with a completed application to have your variance considered.