What is zoning and why does it matter for my property?
Generally, zoning refers to a set of local regulations enforced by your municipality (city, town, county, etc.) that outlines what can and cannot be done on a piece of property. These regulations (may be called “zoning ordinance,” “land development regulations,” “zoning code,” “development code,” or similar variations) attempt to balance various needs within a community:
Supporting overall growth and flexibility of improving or developing properties to respond to ever-changing socio-economic conditions
Limiting negative impacts of land use on neighbors
Creating minimum design standards for general character, public safety, and maintenance procedures
Zoning regulations are often available on your municipality’s website or can be obtained from your municipality’s planning and zoning office. Each property within a municipality is assigned a zoning district on a zoning map. The zoning regulations contain general requirements for all zoning districts and specific requirements for the district that your property is in.
Whenever you are thinking about making changes to either the way you use your property OR the physical environment of your property (even if it’s just adding a fence), you should first consult the zoning regulations. Otherwise, you risk getting fined or having to stop work.
However, zoning is not perfect – it does not capture every possible scenario, may be confusing to interpret, or no longer reflects the community’s current needs or priorities. There are many situations where exceptions or changes to the zoning may be warranted for a piece of property, and those processes are outlined within the zoning regulations as well. Getting exceptions and changes officially approved requires collaboration between the owner/developer, professional consultants, municipal staff, and the appointed/elected approving body.
Other local regulatory and guiding documents that should be referenced, particularly when developing a property, include:
Comprehensive Plan
Future Land Use Plan
Subdivision Regulations
Design Guidelines
District Plan / Small Area Plan
Quick links to Memphis-area zoning regulations: