Back to Advice

Zoning Rules & Land Use

Understanding how your land can be used. Explore zoning classifications, setbacks, and density requirements.

Zoning Classifications

Zoning laws divide land into different categories such as residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural. Each category has specific rules about what can be built and how the land can be used.

Key Constraints

  • • Setback requirements (distance from borders)
  • • Maximum building height
  • • Lot coverage limits
  • • Floor Area Ratio (FAR)

Variances & Appeals

  • • Requesting a zoning variance
  • • Neighborhood consultation process
  • • Zoning board of appeals hearings
  • • Environmental impact considerations

Expert Tip: Check Easements

Before purchasing land, check for utility easements or public rights-of-way that might restrict where you can build on the property.