Land Use & Zoning

There are several factors that impact the ability to secure approval of a change of land use or zoning change by the applicable governing jurisdiction, which include whether or not the change is supported by the elected officials, board members or staff of the applicable governing agency, and well as the support for adjacent land owners and others in the community.   The process can be complex.  Our firm can assist from initial application, through staff, department and lower board meetings, and through final board or commission approval at public hearings to assist in achieving the desired goal. 

Community opposition can be a significant hurdle in the development process. Our attorneys are skilled in community outreach and negotiation, helping to address concerns and find common ground. We work to build positive relationships with stakeholders and present compelling arguments in support of your project.

A PD or PUD typically refers to a type of development that allows for a variety of land uses, such as residential, commercial, industrial, recreational, and public facilities, within a single, unified development plan.  This comprehensive approach allows for better coordination of land uses, infrastructure, and amenities, leading to a more cohesive and functional community.  The benefit of a PD or PUD is that they allow for deviations from standard zoning regulations, such as density, lot size, building heights, and setbacks. This flexibility enables more creative and efficient design solutions that might not be possible under conventional zoning.

A zoning variance is an exception to the zoning ordinance, allowing a property to be used in a way that deviates from the standard zoning requirements. To obtain a variance, you must demonstrate that complying with the existing zoning rules would cause unnecessary hardship or practical difficulty. Our attorneys can assist in preparing and presenting your case to the zoning board.

Changing the zoning of a property, also known as a rezoning, involves submitting an application to the local planning or zoning authority. The process typically includes public hearings, reviews by planning staff and commissions, and final approval by the governing body. Our firm can guide you through each step, ensuring that your application is comprehensive and meets all regulatory requirements.

The timeline for land use and zoning approvals can vary significantly based on the complexity of the project, the specific regulations of the jurisdiction, and the level of public interest or opposition. Generally, the process can take several months to over a year. Our firm strives to expedite the process by preparing thorough applications and actively engaging with relevant authorities.