Zoning laws play an important role in most communities, however, they also play an important role in property rights of many property owners. For that reason, buyers and sellers of property should be familiar with the impact of zoning laws on their property rights and the value of their property.
What is the purpose of zoning regulations?
Zoning regulations are intended to control the development of a municipality. They break down the city or town into residential, commercial and industrial districts is intended to manage development of the town. There may also be mixed zones that include residential and retail, for example. Zoning regulations are intended to create zoning districts and also make those districts uniform.
What are some examples of zoning regulations?
Specific examples of zoning regulations can include:
- Limits and requirements on the types of buildings allowed;
- Restrictions on accessory building and building setbacks;
- The size and height of buildings;
- The number of rooms allowed in the building or structure;
- The number of buildings on a lot and number of dwelling units in certain areas;
- Regulations on single-family homes or multi-family homes and townhouses;
- The location of utility lines; and
- Regulations concerning frontage lots; minimum lot area; front, rear and side yards; off-street parking
What is the impact of zoning regulations?
Zoning regulations can create limits on how property owners can use and develop their property. For that reason, property owners should be familiar with what zoning laws are, the impact of zoning laws and how real estate law can help them address any zoning-related concerns that may come up.