Community Compass library

Look it up before the meeting

Plain-language explanations and real questions from residents, volunteers, and local officials about zoning, codes, housing, neighborhoods, organizations, and local economies. Laws and programs change and vary by place, so confirm anything time-sensitive with your local office or the current official source.

Planning, zoning & codesClear search

Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
100 foot setback requirement for churches
Visitor Question: Our city has a 100' encroachment rule for new churches. They measure the furthest edge of the building to the nearest property line.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
A Bikeable Community Attracts Residents, Visitors
A bikeable community offers increased quality of life for all residents. Bikes are earth-friendly, and promote health mobility for kids and seniors..
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
A Building Code Makes Residents Safer
Enacting a building code to cover new construction spells safety for current and future residents, as well as their visitors.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
A Planning Charrette Requires Preparation and Focus
The charrette is a technique from architecture often used in planning. This page helps you succeed in design collaboration between professionals and residents.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
A Property Maintenance Code Is Good for Your Town
Learn how to implement an appropriate property maintenance code, which promotes economic viability, safety, and attractiveness of your community.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
A Temporary Use Permit Expands Zoning Flexibility
A temporary use permit adds flexibility to the zoning ordinance while still assuring appropriate safeguards over sales, fairs, and seasonal uses.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
A Walkable Community Is Safe, Fun, and Healthy
Devising a walkable community promotes health, sociability, and efficient transportation. Walking also supports local businesses.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Adverse Possession or Easement Road
Visitor Question: A paved road extends from two city public streets across a privately owned lot which has been used by the public, police, fire and utility
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Agricultural Zoning Is a Win-Win for Both Farmers and Towns
Agricultural zoning is useful to towns trying to preserve farming and fight sprawl. Beneficial to both farmer and town, learn how to apply this zoning.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
An Introduction to Site Plan Review for Planning Commissioners
This article recommends careful pruning of site plan review requirements and good choices about who approves the application based on what criteria.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
An Overview of How Code Enforcement Can Help You Make and Keep a Good Community
The code enforcement overview describes why and how local governments use this tool to obtain compliance with local ordinances. Typical flow is explained.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Annexation and re-zoning
Visitor Question: I have a 15 acre property which is being annexed and potentially re-zoned from Pasco County, Florida to Dade City, Florida, but the
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Approaches to Neighborhood Traffic Problems
We pose solutions to neighborhood traffic issues such as bottlenecks, speeding, problem intersections, shortcuts, and ped and bike safety..
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Are counties subject to municipal zoning
Visitor Question: Are counties subject to a municipality's zoning ordinance? Our county government is proposing a new recreation center, and they claim
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Are Impact Fees A Good Way to Pay for City Expansion?
If you do not foresee both the advantages and disadvantages of impact fees, your city could create inequities and legal problems for itself.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Are parks in a separate zoning district?
Visitor Question: We are redoing our comprehensive plan in our town, and I am helping with some of the outreach to our residents. I wanted to know if parks
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Are Townhomes Spot Zoning?
Visitor Question: There is a parcel of land, 3.3 acres on the western edge of our neighborhood. The neighborhood is all single family homes (R5). This
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Armed code enforcement
Visitor Question: Why are code enforcement carrying fire arms? This is in Riverside County, California. Editors Reply: This is not typical throughout
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Auxiliary Land Improvement
Visitor Question: I live in a residential area. Across the street there is a lot that is zoned residential but classed as an auxiliary land improvement.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Avoid Spot Zoning To Be Seen as Fair
Learn what the term spot zoning, often heard at a public hearing on a municipal rezoning proposal, means and why it should be avoided.. .
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Bad idea to rezone from residential to affordable housing
Visitor Question: My family owns property in New Jersey that is currently zoned residential but is being used for business because our business has been
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Ballot initiative downzoning a land parcel
Visitor Question: A ballot initiative by the citizens of Aurora, CO down zoned a 10 acre parcel of land some years ago, and now a developer wants to rezone
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Best City Plan: Tell Us Why It Is Excellent
Your example of the best city plan you have encountered could help others determine how to evaluate plans. Share your stories about documents you admire.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Best Zoning for a Ministry
Visitor Question: Our ministry has been gifted a piece of property that currently has 3 different zonings. A small piece is 02, a section is HE and the
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Business Conditional Use Permit next to home and farm.
Visitor Question: I live in a rural/agricultural area. I own 55 acres of pasture and farm ground. My only visible neighbor now owns my parents' place
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Can a church meet in a building that is zoned industrial?
Visitor Question: I am a member of a local church congregation (less than 100 people) that has been meeting in a school gymnasium. Due to Covid-19,
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Can a City Deviate from Its Future Land Use Map
Visitor Question: I'm wondering about when it is acceptable (or even legal) for a city to deviate from its adopted future land use map, which appears in
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Can a city itself apply for rezoning
Reviewed: May 31, 2024 Visitor Question: In our town we have a weird situation. Our city council thinks they can just fill out a rezoning application
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Can a developer's unfinished work be used against new rezoning proposal
Visitor Question: I am a resident of a multi-phase development begun in 2017. This sits on a subdivision of large private land. Huge areas of mature trees
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Can Code Enforcement make me live in a home that is a health hazard?
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Hello. I live in an unincorporated city in Riverside County. I live on a property that is in probate. I took
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Can code enforcement make me move
Visitor Question: I live in a good size travel trailer outside of the city limits at the end of a privately owned dirt road, out of sight from any type
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Can code enforcement move my car from the back yard
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Can a code enforcement officer move my car from my back yard of my property? Editors Reply: The answer depends
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Can code enforcement officers take furniture from backyard
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Okay so I came home to find multiple things missing from my backyard such as our kids' basketball hoop and pole
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Can code officer decide what is trash?
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Who decides what is trash (inside of a 30 gallon plastic container)? Is that the homeowner or the city code
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Can codes help with condo sewage problem
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: I own a condo on one side. The lady next door owns the condo on the other side. She moved to another state,
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Can I downzone in California
Visitor Question: Can our City Council grant us a downzone in California from multi family residential to single family, in order to become eligible for
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Can the Town Board deny a petition without a public hearing
Visitor Question: Our town board had three landowners ask to have their land changed from 3 acre residential to commercial zoning. Can the town deny these
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Can we be forced to stop renting through Airbnb
Visitor Question: We just received a warning to stop doing short term rentals. To cut a long story short, my husband was involved in a bad accident a few
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Can zoning be changed without notification
Visitor Question: Can the planning and zoning department change the zoning on my property without any notification? Editors' Reply: Oh, this really shouldn't
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Canopy Violation
Last Reviewed: June 17, 2024 Visitor Question: Do I have to pull a permit for a 10' by 20' canopy which is assembled at the back of my house? I have to
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Cellular Antennas on Historic Buildings
Visitor Question: A new local project development consists of a total renovation of a former factory building into condominiums. The building has historical
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Church buying residence to use for youth center does zoning allow
Visitor Question: A church on the next block over has purchased the house behind ours. We asked some people coming out of the church what they intended
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Church in R1 zoning to be a house
Visitor's Question: A church building lies on property zoned R1 in a residential neighborhood. It has always been a church as far as we know. The church
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Church Parking Lot Leased for Business Parking
Visitor Question: We live near a church which is located in a residential area. The church main parking lot holds about 200 cars. The have leased about
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Church Property Rezoning
Visitor Question: Must a property bearing a place of worship always be a place of worship? Or may it be sold for any use permitted by the zoning, such
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Church sold lots and cannot meet parking requirement
Visitor Question: I have general questions. A large church congregation owns several parcels in a half-residential/half-office zoned area. It then sells
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Church Zoning Often Subject to Special Use Permits
Once church zoning was permitted as of right in residential districts. But traffic and other issues have led to cities often requiring conditional use permits.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Churches in Single Family Neighborhood
Visitor Question: If a church is approved for an existing low density single family home neighborhood, is it treated the same as every other resident of
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
City Mistake on Zoning Requirement Adds to Financial Hardship
Visitor Question: My family has owned a mobile home park for over 10 years now. After the flood of 2011 the basement of our two-story home began to cave
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
City Planning With Kids May Give New Insight into the Future of the Community
City planning with kids can produce candid comments, lucid perceptions, and truth telling episodes that help adults think creatively.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
City shuts off water for code violations
Reviewed: May 31, 2024 Visitor Question: Our City Council has adopted a policy of shutting off city-provided water to residences to enforce code violations.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
City wants to change residential zoning to agricultural
Visitor Question: I bought 13 acres to develop with housing. The property is zoned R-6, a residential category. Now the city wants to change the zoning
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Climate Change Planning Presents New Physical, Social, and Economic Challenges
I think local climate change planning takes one of four pathways. Here we describe how your community can decide on an approach.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Code Enforcement and Standing Water
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Website Visitor's Original Question: A family purchased a small inflatable swimming pool during the summer, and placed the pool
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Code enforcement and wood piles
Published: October 1, 2024 Visitor Question: I thought it was supposed to be against codes to stack firewood on bare ground in a neighborhood. My neighbor
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Code enforcement entered home
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: I live in Flint, Michigan. Code enforcement entered my home, threw back the door, then took pictures of my home
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Code Enforcement in Rural Areas
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Is there any code enforcement in rural areas? I'm tired of living around junked cars, rusting machinery, old
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Code Enforcement Letter Received
Last Reviewed: July 4, 2024 Visitor Question: We received a letter which was a fill-in-the-blanks city code violation form that says we have 10 days
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Code Enforcement Letters Not Received
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: So I had a rather large problem arise involving a code enforcement and wanted some info before dealing with
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Code enforcement officer in backyard without consent
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Hi. I am a resident of the Village of BISCAYNE Park, Dade County. I have the code enforcement officer harassing
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Code Enforcement Questions Often Arise Because of Inconsistency, Wrong Emphasis
Many code enforcement questions arise because of standards that seem too strict or too lax. Here you can ask pros what they think.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Code Enforcement Right to Enter Property
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Can a Non-Certified, non-law enforcement Code Enforcer in Colorado enter your property without permission or
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Code Enforcement says too much stuff
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: My husband has ADD. He lost his job and as a result, he buys and sells things. He got cited from Code Enforcement
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Code enforcement singling me out
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: What if anything can I do if code enforcement is sending me letters for violations and not to anybody else I
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Code enforcement targeting an individual
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Could I be targeted for code violations? Editors Respond: We assume that you mean that you feel that the city
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Code officer ignores my written complaints
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: A wealthy and gregarious neighbor has SCHMOOZED the code officer into looking the other way on his development.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Codes to quiet cars with booming sub woofers
Visitor Question: How have other communities dealt with loud booming sub-woofer speakers in cars? We have many in our city. I wonder if there are any ways
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Commercial Church Kitchen as Food Truck Commissary
Visitor Question: We have spent three years upgrading our church kitchen to meet Health Department requirements for a Commercial Kitchen. Now that we
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Commercial driveway in a residential zone
Visitor Question: I live in a small town on a block that is adjacent to the retail district. Zoning is r-3. On my side of the street there are only houses.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Commercial Rezoning Violates Covenants
Visitor Question: I live in a residential subdivision in Tennessee. Recently, the road to the subdivision was widened to 5 lanes and the land immediately
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Community Benefits Agreements Can Be Crafted Carefully to Support Social Goals
Community benefits agreements formalize commitments a developer makes to the neighborhood. These are incorporated into municipal development approvals.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Complete Streets Encourage More Transportation Options
Complete streets shift the emphasis from speeding cars to making roads safe for transit, pedestrians, cyclists, wheelchairs, and other users equal in priority.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Comprehensive Plan Contents Need to Reflect Community Character
Comprehensive plan contents should be flexible enough to respond to community uniqueness. This is true even when state law requires certain elements.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Conditional Use Permit Did Not State Hours of Operation
Visitor Question: There is a building that is on property that is zoned residential and is surrounded by residentially zoned property. The city does not
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Condo Conversion Zoning and Subdivision
Condo conversion zoning or alternate approval process should focus on both good development practice and preventing displacement to the extent possible.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Conservation Easements Are Practical Preservation Tools
Learn how to use conservation easements to preserve open space, slow climate change, and curb urban sprawl, water pollution, and species extinction.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Control Building Setbacks for Better Urban Design
Learn how building setbacks create and reinforce the character of a neighborhood, whether residential or commercial. See our commercial district examples.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Converting a storefront into a church
Visitor Question: I have a building with four addresses, 2133-2135-2137-2139 W. Manchester Ave. I want to convert 2139 into a small church. What are the
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Counseling Business in a Residence
Visitor Question: My neighborhood is zoned R1-8. A neighbor moved in across the street and is conducting counseling (individual and group) out of the home.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Deed Restrictions and Covenants May Regulate Land Use, Aesthetics
Deed restrictions, covenants, or CC&Rs can become a major headache for both home buyers and communities.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Definition of a live work unit
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: I was listening to planning and zoning the other night. One of the board members was arguing that live-work
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Demolition would cost town too much
Visitor Question: I am an elected official in a small rural town, where we have many demolition challenges. Our code enforcement officer has been active,
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Denial of LED Sign
Visitor Question: Background: Our church council president recently went before the city planning commission to ask for 3 variances for a new LED messaging
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Difference between regeneration and redevelopment
Reviewed: May 31, 2024 Visitor Question: What's the difference between Regeneration and Redevelopment? Editors Reply: We have to imagine that you thought
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Difference between RPUD zoning and condominium zoning
Visitor Question: What is the difference between RPUD zoning and condominium zoning? Editors' Reply: RPUD commonly stands for Residential Planned Unit
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Do housing codes violate civil rights
Last Reviewed: July 4, 2024 Visitor Question: It seems like many housing codes are very restrictive about what my neighbors and me can and cannot do on
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Do I need a permit to start using my house as a church?
Visitor Question: My city has planning and building departments and Conditional Use Permits. Do I need a conditional use permit to start using my residential
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Do You Live in a Smart City?
Smart city technologies could usher in better city planning through fast and effective prediction capabilities.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Does approved site plan have to conform with new zoning code
Visitor Question: A storage facility submitted a site plan in 1996. They are going to erect the final building this year, 2019. We are being told that
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Does church-related school require a conditional use permit
Visitor Question: Our church is currently zoned institutional and has been operating for over 50 years. We would like to add a small private school but
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Eco City
Last Reviewed: June 19, 2024 Visitor Writes: I've had this concept floating around my head for some time. It's really a half dozen of the 'Sustainable
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Elected Officials and Ordinance Enforcement
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Is it legal for the Mayor or city council member to enforce city ordinances but not obey them on their own properties?
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Enacting An Existing Building Code Helps, But You May Need More
A standard existing building code is a very useful addition that allows alternatives to new construction standards for older buildings.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Establishing a new location for church
Visitor Question: Does a proposed church location have to be a certain number of feet away from a bar/strip club? Editors Reply: We cannot give you a
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Excessive regulation of boat docks
Visitor Question: Our dock (considered as one) has two hoists on it. We have been using it this way since we've lived here (20 plus years). Now, our City
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Existing Businesses in an Incorporation
Visitor Question: Our City incorporated in 2008. Many Rural Home Businesses had operated from home successfully for more than forty years. The home business
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Family reunion rental in single-family zoning?
Visitor Question: A 17,000 square foot home is under construction as a single family residence in our quiet residential area. It has come to our attention
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Fear of Rural Zoning Shouldn't Prevent Planning
In many states, the idea of rural zoning would stir up controversy overnight. And perhaps rightfully so. It's more important to decide which aspects of agricultural heritage to preserve.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Feel harassed by code enforcement officer
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: I was given a code violation for graffiti on my fence. Every year I have had to correct this. This year in around
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Fighting Hotel Zoning
Visitor Question: My neighborhood has changed considerably over the years. I live in a residential community that allows hotels; however, there is only
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Gas station and historical property
Visitor Question: Hi. Can I sue my city for disregarding their own ordinance about gas stations too close to homes and in view of an historical landmark?
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Gas station in residential area
Visitor Question: I've seen that in residential areas where a gas station is near neighborhood homes, the gas station causes problems of daily living.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Gas Station Next to My House
Visitor Says: Hi my name is Yanci Arreola. I've lived in Safford AZ for 3 years. About 2 years ago we had a realtor come up to us trying to buy our property.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Good Annexation Policy Leads to Rational Service Boundaries and City Planning
Annexation may be a tool to reduce the likelihood of future blight, to bring zoning and subdivision regulation consistency throughout a growing urban area, and to help control sprawl and random growth. This article includes a sample…
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Grandfathered housing development zoning
Visitor Question: Does the owner have any legal problems if his density is more than the R-3 zoning? The owner wants to rezone his property to R-4 to match
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
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
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Holiday decorations stay up too long
Visitor Question: We have a problem in our smaller city with people leaving their holiday decorations up for way too long. For example, as I am writing
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Home church with sail sign
Visitor Question: I have a neighbor that is holding church services in their home on Sundays, but now they have a large sign that looks like a sail advertising
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Home Occupation Zoning - Getting Neighborhood Support
Visitor Question: I am interested in amending the Residential Zoning code of our village to allow home-based businesses. I have a personal feeling that
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Homeowners rights with code enforcement
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: I live in North Miami and I have this code officer harassing me because of a code violation report to them by
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
How does zoning pertain to condos?
Visitor Question: I am wondering whether the zoning law covers our condos. If so, how does that work? It seems like my large community is sort of self-governing,
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
How far can the city go in forcing citizens to obey codes?
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Our city is really gonzo about forcing citizens to keep their property code worthy. Every person up and down
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
How Far from Property Line Should Trees Be
Visitor Question: How far from someone's property line does someone have to be in order to plant large growing trees? Editors Reply: In most places, the
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
How Form-Based Code Differs from Traditional Zoning
A form-based code replaces all or part of a zoning ordinance with standards defining scale, mass, and placement of buildings instead of rigid land use classes.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
How many people can legally attend a residential fellowship
Visitor Question: Hi, I am curious as to how many people can attend a residential fellowship. There are no monetary offerings, but we do host a church
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
How Neighborhood Demographics Affect Housing and Service Needs
Understanding neighborhood demographics trends over time helps communities see where they’re headed, and then figure out strategies to reach the desired future.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
How often do cities update their zoning maps
Visitor Question: Is there some sort of schedule when cities are required to update their zoning maps? It seems like the zoning gets applied here, and
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
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
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
How to convert commercial property to residential
Visitor Question: A friend of mine owns a building that is currently considered commercial property and wants to change it to residential. The land itself
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
How to Get City to Enforce Ordinance
Visitor Question: The City where I live has a definite zoning ordinance (Code 82.15) that states commercial vehicles are not to be parked in residential
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
How to get rid of a bad planning commissioner
Visitor Question: One person on our city plan commission is just perpetually unprepared for the meeting and uninformed. She comes up with some of the stupidest
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
How to grandfather a room addition
Visitor Question: How do you grandfather an add-on to a house? I recently bought a house that had a patio enclosed without permits. Not knowing, I let
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
How to grandfather a room addition
Visitor Question: I bought my house in 1980. It has 3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom. Recently someone reported to the city that I had people living in my garage.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
How to Justify Rezoning My Home to Commercial
Visitor Question: I am trying to sell my home, but I want to rezone to commercial because of my location. I am surrounded by business. Both neighbors are
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
How to Object to Neighbor's Variance
Visitor Question: I live in a condo and my building got a use variance to build to full lot coverage in 2005. My condo is in the residential zone (R-1)
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
How to Organize Re-Zoning Opposition
Re-zoning opposition is more effective if you have some tools besides your anger. Learn how the process works.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
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
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
How to rezone residential property for more units
Visitor Question: I have property which includes three rentals. The buildings are very old. I would like to tear them down and build 4-5 small efficiency
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
How to stop a variance
Visitor Question: My town has been underhanded about a piece of property that the Catholic Church owns and now wants to profit off this land by building
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
How to stop construction of a three story building
Visitor Question: How does a town stop the construction of a three-story building? Currently, the first request by the applicant to the town was denied,
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
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.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
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.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Illegal Fence Disagreement
Visitor Question:I purchased a single family home last year with one acre. The home borders 13 acres of open fields that went with the house before the
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Illegal Spot Zoning and Illegal Use of Land
Visitor Question: In 2017, the son of a township board member lived on property that was zoned A-1 Agricultural, which is one of the four Residential types
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Improper Notification of Zoning Variance
Visitor Question: My question is about a zoning variance. In this town you must notify all neighboring properties within 150 feet. One neighboring property
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Incentive Zoning as a Tool for Public Purposes
This page describes applications of the incentive zoning technique, in which zoning requirements are lessened as a trade-off for specified public benefits.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Industrial Wind Turbines in R1 District
Visitor Question: Penn Forest Township is a rural municipality in Carbon County, PA. Two applications were submitted seeking to erect 30+ wind turbines
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Is code enforcement required to provide translation
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Is code enforcement required to provide translation of violations? Code enforcement took $470 from my friend
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Kennel Preventing Occupancy Permit Issuance
Visitor Question: I purchased an old house with two kennels built, ONE DIRECTLY BEHIND THE HOUSE AND ONE ADJACENT TO THAT BUILDING. It is zoned light industrial.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Land Subsidence Needs to Become a City Planning Issue
Land subsidence, the term for sudden or gradual sinking, is a community planning issue. Development approvals can lead to dewatering.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Land Use Classifications Can Vary With Your Needs
The land use classifications or categories for use in your city plan are not written in stone. Here are some ideas to help you decide what designations to use.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Land Use Planning Principles for Commissions, Boards, and Residents
Follow these land use planning principles to build an attractive, well-functioning community.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Land Use Planning Tips for Cities and Towns
Land use planning focuses on mapping enough land for each future community need. Explore mixing uses judiciously instead of segregating them.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Legal Problems Due to Starting Petition
Visitor Asks: What are the legal repercussions of starting a petition? Can I be sued if I start a petition against a rezoning for a certain development?
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Legislative Intent in Amending Zoning Code
Visitor Question: Is it necessary for a municipality to explicitly state its legislative intent when amending its zoning code? A municipality has indicated
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Local Design Guidelines Regulate Building Appearance
Local design guidelines are the most legally defensible way for local governments to regulate materials, colors, and other design choices for buildings.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Minimum hours of operation in commercial zone
Visitor Question: I live in a town that has a lot of vacant buildings in the historic downtown core. It is zoned commercial but because rents are so low,
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Mixed-Use Development Delivers Multiple Community Benefits
Mixed-use development blends residential land uses with commercial and possibly office or institutional tenants. Learn how to maximize walkable environments.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
More Church Zoning Questions
At Useful Community Development we are receiving many questions about zoning for churches or church-related land uses. We already have answered several
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Neighborhood commercial to commercial zoning
Visitor Question: Without any notice, the township rezoned us from neighborhood commercial to straight commercial. We found out because of our tax increase.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Neighborhood Plans Build Excitement, Purpose
Neighborhood plans work wonders if you need to solidify residents or your city around specific goals. Find out what it takes to prepare one.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
New Residence on Narrow Lot
Visitor Question: What size lot is necessary for new residential structures in the Treme, District 2? I am interested in whether one can build between
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
No Building Permit
Visitor Question: A residential homeowner and their contractor built a patio roof onto an existing detached garage. And an extension of the patio roof
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Noise from mosque in residential area
Visitor Question: Hello. I have been a resident of a six-story building for 20 years. A month ago the private two-story house in between our three buildings
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Noise Ordinance
Last Reviewed: June 14, 2024 Visitor Question: We are thinking about having a noise ordinance, because we are tired of boom boxes, marital arguments that
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Nonprofits opposing variance applications
Visitor Question: Can a nonprofit organization send a representative employee to oppose a variance application without hiring an attorney? Editor Reply:
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Not Enforcing Town Code
Last Reviewed: July 4, 2024 Visitor Question: Our town of Southeast NY has a law stating there shall be no parking of exposed commercial vehicles in residential
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Notice to property owner when building posted unsafe
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Can the city say a building is unsafe without going inside, and can it put a sign on your building without notifying
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Numerous Small Town Ordinance Violations
Visitor Question: The neighbors got together and revoked the CC&R's during a law suit to clean up the properties. We are now under the local County's
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Old industrial site and redevelopment
Last Reviewed: May 23, 2024 Visitor Question:Is ownership of an old industrial site a constraint to redevelopment? I've been told that this commercial
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Open Space Helps to Define Community Form
Community open space confers environmental and social benefits, preserves beauty, and delights folks in urban areas. Produce a vigorousl open space plan.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Overnight stay in a place of worship
Visitor Question Our mosque sits in a commercial district and received zoning approval as a place of worship. The application was simple, and it states
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Paid to rezone then city did blanket rezoning
Visitor Question: I paid to have my property zoned for a secondary suite. Then the city arbitrarily did a blanket rezone and established the same zoning
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Permit for Church Services in a Home
Last Updated: August 8, 2020 Visitor Question: I have a neighbor that is holding church services in his home and we can not park our car. Do they need
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Permitted Uses on Nonprofit Property
Visitor Question: Our nonprofit owns and is located on property that was formerly charter school property. Initially, the land was zoned with a special
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Planning Commissioners' Decisions and Conditional Use Permits
Visitor Question: Can Planning Commissioners legally reference the General Plan as a basis for their decisions on a conditional use permit? Editors Reply:
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
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.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Process to rezone property to industrial
Visitor Question: The property I am asking about is on a busy road that connects to the second busiest road in the county. It backs up to the interstate.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Property rezoned after purchase
Visitor Question: I purchased a 1 acre piece of property in west central Georgia on 7/6/2018 through the Property for Sale-Georgia State Properties Commission
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Property Upkeep Code to Protect Neighborhood Quality
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: We live in a neighborhood of single family homes. Because we are in the county and not the city, the International
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Punishment for not correcting serious code violations
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: A legitimate complaint was made against a neighbor's property for serious and dangerous code violations, which
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Quality City Planning Is Setting a Community Up for Success--And Results
Good city planning for land use, transportation, public services, prosperity, and amenities can help any community.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Questions and Answers About Planning and Community Development Terms
There are plenty of planning and community development terms and acronyms to keep new and experienced activists confused. Ask your question here.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Recreation Zones--Benefits and Detriments
Visitor Question: What is the purpose of a recreation zone? Is it to prevent certain uses or to enhance multiple use? Editors' Reply: Let's hope we're
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Rehab Center in Residential Neighborhood
Reviewed: May 31, 2024 Visitor Question: An application has been submitted to our land use board asking that a private residential property be rezoned
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Renting a commercial building for a church
Visitor Question: We opened a home based new church/mission in Colton, CA City. Now the number of members has grown to about 24 people, thank God, and
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Replacement of Non-Conforming Structure
Visitor Question: Is it possible (i.e. legal) to tear down a non-conforming structure (over 95%, Ordinance says over 75% replacement must fully comply
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Resident told to hire a lawyer to get codes enforced
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: I have a neighbor who extended his driveway onto my property and a neighbor who built a pad for his boats, damaging
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Residential care zoning laws
Last Reviewed: July 4, 2024 Visitor Question: I'm trying to become a licensed caregiver. When I went to my local office to receive a zoning letter, they
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Residential to Commercial Rezoning
Visitor Question: I live on a major road on the outside of a subdivision. There are businesses across the street from me. My question is how do I have
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Restricting Times of Church Worship
Visitor Question: A church in our town has been approved to buy an old college campus church. During the C.U.P. process they wanted a condition, The church
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Rezoned Property Not Following Regulations
Last Reviewed: August 13, 2024 Visitor Question: If the Township granted a zoning amendment that would violate the new zoning district, for example changing
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Rezoning an entire town?
Visitor Question: What criteria should be used when rezoning an entire town (e.g. criteria for each zoning district) ? Editors Reply: That is a big subject.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Rezoning commercial social club to a restaurant
Visitor Question: I'm turning a commercial building that used to be a social club and other public events building into a restaurant. I have a meeting
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Rezoning from business to residential
Visitor Question: A friend inherited an office from her father. She has been renting it to an attorney. It is located in a residential area, but has been
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Rezoning happens during construction
Visitor Question: What are the options of a developer of an apartment building under construction and the zoning changes to single family houses? Editors
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Rezoning historic home to commercial
Visitor Question: I live in a town of about 17,000 in a semi-rural setting. Our county is almost finished with a community plan update which focuses on
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Rezoning When Deed Restrictions Prohibit Activity
Visitor Question: Can township zoning appeals rezone a 1/2 acre lot in the middle of residential develop to agricultural? I am in Ohio without an HOA.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Robust Community Engagement Increases Support
Community engagement and public participation for city planning processes may include meetings, open houses, charrettes, surveys, focus groups, and more.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Rural code enforcement inconsistent
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: I live in rural Iowa and city codes are just coming into service. While I sometimes wonder who thought some
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Rural deed restriction
Visitor Question: People just bought a 4.146 acre tract rural property, and there's a deed restriction saying no mobile homes. The new owners just placed
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Septic tanks
I live in Phelan, California and I have neighbors who moved in across the street and have a mobile home. They've lived there for two years and have no
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Short Term Rental Zoning May Be Strictly Regulated or Not
Short term rental zoning provisions should address potential problems before they happen. See our list of potential regulations..
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Should Family Farm Zoning Have Been Revealed
Visitor Question: Neighbors are claiming a property was sold to them without being told it had a family farm designation, and now they want to break the
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Significance of Community Edges
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: I wonder about whether the term edge or community edge is really important. I hear this discussed sometimes
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Sound Community Planning Process Based on Six Steps
A community planning process includes data collection and analysis, generating alternatives, choosing a desired future, and writing an actionable plan.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Special exception for commercial tree company
Visitor Question: A commercial tree company has filed for a special exception next door to me in our rural residential town. It would be completely out
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Spot Zoning for Rendering Plant
Visitor Question: Application for a rendering plant requires a re zone to heavy industrial of the proposed site. Miles of surrounding property is zone
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Start Thinking About Driverless Cars and City Planning
Your city can save money and a mad scramble later if you start now to consider how driverless cars and city planning may relate in the next few decades.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Stop construction on vacant land next door.
Visitor Question: The property next door to me was recently purchased by a developer who intends to build a house. The land is 2 sq ft short of being
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Stopping an unwanted business
Visitor Question: I live in a small rural village. The downtown area is a mix of small businesses and residential. There is a developer who wants to
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Stormwater code enforcement
Visitor Question: What happens if the municipal codes are not enforced and the violation negatively affects the surrounding property? A qualified engineer
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Street Hierarchy Is Meant to Organize Subdivisions, But It's No Way to Develop
A street hierarchy is common in suburbs. The idea of traffic progressing from less to more important streets contrasts with the older pattern of a street grid.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Subdivision Regulation Sets Standards for Buildable Lots
Subdivision regulation establishes standards for land to be divided and offered for sale. Good local standards protect both local government and home buyers.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Suitable Zones to Build Private School
Visitor Question: In Contra Costa (East Bay), can I build a private school in a very-low-density,residential-zoned land with multiple lots? Editors' Reply:
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Systematic Down Zoning and How to Critique It
Down zoning can be a tool for good or ill. We explain affordable housing and economic development considerations.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
The Kids Can City Project
Reviewed: June 19, 2024 Visitor Writes: I decided to make an ideal city called Uberstin for my Kids Can school project. I wanted to design a city where
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Thoughts About Zoning and Social Justice
We explore the associations between zoning and social justice, asking how land use rules harm racial equity and if they always do.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Threatening behavior by code officers
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Three code officers came to my place, carrying weapons on the first visit. All of my permits are up to date.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Timing of an Accessory Structure
Visitor Question: Are there any examples of ordinance language that restricts the building of an accessory structure (garage, pole barn, shed) before a
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Tiny house village on church property
Visitor Question: Is it legal to build a community of tiny houses for the homeless on church property if it is zoned r-1 (residential) and the property
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
To Avoid Contract Zoning, Define Your Standards Well
Contract zoning occurs when a local government illegally grants a rezoning in exchange for particular promises about how the land will be developed.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Tower Zoning Can't Be Prohibited Everywhere
Tower zoning is controversial because of perceived aesthetic, environmental and fall hazard issues. Learn what the federal government allows locals to regulate.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Town codes not enforced
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: The town I live in is not enforcing the written codes such as parking lot requirements and snow removal. Does
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Transportation Planning Determines Future Roads, Shapes Development Patterns
This page describes our experiences with the transportation planning process in simple terms helpful to local communities of interest..
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Typical Percentage of Land Uses
Last Reviewed: June 14, 2024 Visitor Question: What proportion of the land in cities and towns typically is taken up by each type of land use? Editors
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Unlicensed Short Term Rentals
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: I operate an Airbnb in Colorado. My town recently enacted an ordinance for STR to require a license and a 10%
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Using an Apartment to Conduct Church Services
Visitor Question: Can my neighbor legally use her rented apartment to conduct church services for more than 50 people in Connecticut every Sunday? Editors
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Using building as a church
Can any building be used as a church? Editors Reply: The practical answer to this question is no. In theory, as you know if you read our church zoning
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Using Church Land for Homeless Program
Visitor Question: We have a significant issue with homelessness in our area, and in particular we have many families with children experiencing homelessness.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Vacant Building Registration Provides Data, Revenue, and Incentives for Building Re-Use
Vacant building registration ordinances lead to better data, revenue to address related issues, and importantly, a big incentive to reuse buildings promptly.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Vines on home: code violation or landscaping enhancement?
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: A single-family home in my neighborhood has vines covering much of the exterior. The growth appears uncultivated
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Visualizing Outdoor Sign Types for Planning Commissioners
Planning commissioners need to understand various outdoor sign types. Here we explain and illustrate common categories.
Guide · Planning, zoning & codes
Watershed Planning Improves Water Quality, Reduces Floods
Watershed planning sets the stage for clean water throughout your drainage basin. It also allows development of detailed strategies to prevent floods.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
What are livable communities?
Reviewed: June 13, 2024 Visitor question: I'm new to the planning commission. One member keeps talking about making our community more livable, and I'm
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
What does blue infrastructure mean?
Reviewed: May 31, 2024 Visitor Question: At our town's zoning commission meeting, I heard some visiting big shot talk about how we need to preserve and
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
What does planning term ETJ mean
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: Our medium-sized city is updating our comprehensive plan. I went to a hearing and a work session and jotted
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
What does polycentric region mean?
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: I have become interested in what our regional planning council is doing because I am concerned about the need
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
What is a biophilic city?
Visitor Question: I'm rather new on our city's planning commission. Other members have mentioned biophilic city a couple of times, and I don't know what
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
What is a capital improvements plan?
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: What exactly is a capital improvements plan? I was just elected to a city council and am now trying to catch
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
What is a digital twin in city planning
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: I am on our city's planning commission. I don't understand exactly what a digital twin is, but I know that our
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
What is a transect in planning?
Published: June 15, 2024 Visitor Question: There are some rumblings in my community about possibly moving from zoning, which is so complex for the average
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
What is a water trail?
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: I'm one of those new planning commissioners you wrote about in your newsletter. The latest term I heard at a
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
What is agrivoltaics and why is it significant
Visitor Question: I'm in New Jersey and am very interested in a possible new comprehensive plan or something similar that my county is discussing. This
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
What is BRT?
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: I'm a new planning commission member. At my very first meeting last week, the commission was talking about BRT,
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
What is Resiliency Planning
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: What does resiliency planning mean? I am a plan commission member, and I was sitting in my second meeting when
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
What Is Tactical Urbanism
Reviewed: June 12, 2024 Visitor Question: I understand tactical, and as a newer resident of a large city, I hope I am beginning to understand urbanism.
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Which zoning district typically has greater setbacks
Visitor Question: Out of employment zones, commercial zones, and residential zones which one is most likely to have higher values for setbacks AND why?
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Why aren't streams included in zoning?
Visitor Question: Where are streams and creeks in the zoning guidelines? Editors' Reply: That's an excellent question, and the main reason seems to be
Visitor question · Planning, zoning & codes
Why is zoning important
Visitor Question: I'm curious about why zoning is important in small cities. Wouldn't people make good decisions by themselves without zoning laws? Editors'

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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.