What to Consider Before Rezoning Your Land
You might have a property you want to purchase, but it doesn't have favorable zoning requirements. Find out what you can do about rezoning the property to help you accomplish your goal. Talk to a realtor to help you get things on board to make it happen. Here are some things to consider before rezoning your land.
Know the Zoning Code Where You Plan to Move
Before you plan to rezone the land, speak to someone from the local municipal planning and building department. Find out the zoning category of where you want to move.
If the place is a single-family residential property, you'll notice churches, schools, and community centers are most prevalent. A transitional zoning district would have commercial buildings. Consider how zoning requirements may impact how you use the property.
Maybe you want to run a home business but need clearance to do it. You might find an exception like running a child care facility. Before you cut down trees or alter the structure of the place, find out if any city ordinances prevent you from making these changes.
Apply for Rezoning
After you see that rezoning is possible, write an application for it. Go to the office of planning and building to write up a petition. Here are a few things to note:
Write how you will use the land
Know the application fee based on the property size
Apply within the allotted time
Some states require that you place your petition in a local newspaper. They want you to let neighbors know what's happening because rezoning your property may affect surrounding properties and roads. A zoning board will review your application and determine if your request suits the land and any long-range plans.
Wait for a Recommendation
If they favor your application, they'll recommend your rezoning request. However, they could also recommend a denial. The zoning board thinks about the health and welfare of the applicant, the adjacent neighbors, and the community in mind.
Next, the rezoning committee will rule on the decision in a public hearing. Residents can attend to express their support or opposition to your application request. Sometimes you might get a zoning variance, which grants you some of what you want but considers the community needs.
Figure out the steps you need to take to get the ideal property and make the best use out of it.
