Affecting Home Construction with Zoning Laws

Published by cravat | Filed under Buyer / Seller Tips, Miscellaneous, Real Estate

Zoning is vital because it informs land buyers and owners what they could build in a certain area. Furthermore, zoning is required to protect the rights of the people occupying a certain location. It is a regulation stating how a piece of land should be used. This is to protect the people who are currently living in the neighborhood and covers both industrial facilities and residential areas. For example, a mall located in a residential area could be risky to children living in the neighborhood due to congestion of traffic and a greater chance of vehicle collision incidents in the area.

If you are planning to buy a home, it is important to observe diligence and you should be aware of the different zoning laws in a certain neighborhood. Some areas only allow you to build a single-family home, so if you want to build a duplex, you have to look for another area that allows you to build a duplex. Some zoning laws have certain stipulations when it comes to the distance of the property. There are cases when you will be authorized to build a single level home only. If you want to build a home and a space for your business, you should find an area that allows building both a residential and commercial building. It is of vital importance to be familiar with the zoning laws when considering the kind of home you want to build. Some zoning laws have certain limitations when it comes to the size of the home. With zoning laws, use of land is categorized as industrial, commercial or residential.

When planning for a home to build, you must determine first the zoning by-law rules in your property. Zoning rules and regulations address matters like permitted land use within the various parts of the city, setbacks of buildings from lands considered hazardous, building heights, building floor areas, lot coverage, accessory and building uses such as utility sheds, pool and many more. Also included in the zoning regulations are water and sanitary sewer services, home occupations and outdoor storage and parking requirements. You have to be aware and review the basics and understand zoning codes and symbols. Residential zoning is usually divided into various classes such as R1, R2 and R3.

It is important that before you invest in a property, you have to know the zoning requirements and proposed changes, if any. This helps you save a lot of aggravation and money. Being aware of the zoning by-laws and requirements, you can avoid expensive and time-consuming mistakes when building your dream home. Determine if you can secure a variance if you are planning to build a home that does not meet local requirements. A variance is an exemption to the zoning regulations. If you are allowed to file one, make sure to find out the time frame for submitting it. Normally, you will be scheduled to attend a zoning meeting. Do not forget this when planning to build your home or business establishment.