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Understand or change zoning on my property

The basics of how zoning works, plus what to know before asking for a change.

Before you rely on thisThese are older articles and answers, and laws and programs change and vary by place. For current rules, check with your planning or zoning office.

Start with these

  1. Guide

    How Zoning Regulations Work

    Key concepts, conventions, definitions, and terms important to interpreting zoning regulations and principles are explained. The basis of the code in land use planning is stressed.

  2. Guide

    How To Understand Land Use Zoning and Codes Aimed at Health, Safety, Welfare

    Land use zoning and other codes are locally enacted to create health, safety, positive environments, and general community order.

  3. Visitor question

    How to Plead My Case on a Re-zoning

    Visitor Question: There are 7 property owners with 8 lots in our subdivision (we are all on 6-8 acre lots). One of the property owners wants to develop

  4. Visitor question

    Grandfathered Zoning

    Visitor Question: I bought a house that is ten feet from the south side property line and is angled to the north. This allows room to add a detached garage

  5. Guide

    Practical Suggestions for Home Business Zoning

    In light of technological advances, it's time to lighten restrictions on home business zoning. Here are some suggestions for permissive and restrictive laws.

  6. Visitor question

    How rezoning affects property value

    Visitor Question: I currently live in a subdivision that is divided into 5 acre tracts and zoned as rural residential. Currently a rezoning R-1 has been

  7. Guide

    Accessory Dwelling Units Add Housing, Reduce Cost

    Learn how accessory dwelling units aid housing affordability, help older adults stay at home, and increase efficiency in providing services and utilities.

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Original guidance from A Good Community: How to Make and Keep It, owned and edited by Nancy Thompson (formerly Useful Community Development), shared with permission. Community Compass notes and updates are our own and have not been reviewed by Nancy Thompson.