FAQs

In renovating a former grocery store to become an auto parts shop, I was forced to meet higher standards than a similar operation down the street. Why?

Is a lawyer needed for a variance or rezoning change?

What is a subdivision?

Do I need any licenses or permits?

How do I complain about a neighborhood zoning problem?

What is buffer zoning?

How does zoning affect me? Is it a cause or effect? Or impact?

What are the ramifications for violating zoning laws?

What is down zoning?

It sounds as if zoning only can hurt me not help me?

Can I run a business out of my home?

What is esthetic zoning?

How do I find out what my property is zoned?

Suppose I live in a condo or co-op?

What is contract zoning?

I want to change or use my land in a way not allowed by the local zoning ordinance. What are my alternatives?

Can zoning laws prohibit unrelated persons from living together in a single-family home?

What is spot zoning?

What is a variance?

How many animals can I have on my property?

What is an easement?

How do I obtain a variance?

Can a community impose red-light zoning laws?

What is a ‘right of way’?

How do I prove a case for a variance?

Is an in-law apartment allowed?

What is zoning?

Can I get a variance alone or do I need an attorney?

Can I convert my basement or room over my garage into an apartment? Or redesign my front walkway?

What else do zoning laws regulate?

How do I object to a neighbor’s proposed zoning variance?

What are permitted uses?

Who controls zoning?

How do I get started to make a zone change?

What are special use permits?

What are some major types of classifications?

How long might it take? How successful am I likely to get a rezoning?

What is a conditional use?

Is zoning permanent?

How do I dispute a proposed rezoning change?

What is a non-conforming use?

What do all the zoning symbols, such as r2 or m3, mean?

Suppose the local board approves a rezoning? Am I out of luck?

What problems do non-conforming uses create?

What can be done about an obnoxious neighbor that pays his music very loud, day and night? The police have tried, but so far nothing has worked.

Can I appeal an adverse zoning decision?

Can a business continue in a non-conforming area after?