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Guide to Zoning Rules and Regulations
How to make sure your business complies with local zoning lawsLikewise, it's important to pay attention to zoning laws when expanding an existing business. Changing the products or services offered can lead to non-compliance with zoning laws.
Zoning laws typically divide land usage into three categories:
- Residential
- Commercial
- Industrial
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Check zoning for home-based businesses
In many areas, you can operate a business out of your home as long as your home is still used primarily for a residence and the business is non-polluting and doesn't negatively impact your neighbors.
I recommend:
See how zoning and planning boards and regulations work at LegalMatch.com. Ask questions about home-based business zoning laws at FreeAdvice.com.
Check commercial and industrial zoning laws
Every local municipality has its own zoning ordinances concerning commercial and industrial land use. Get familiar with your local laws before setting up shop or expanding your business.
I recommend:
Find state, county, municipal and local land use and zoning law sites at MegaLaw.com.
Seek community support
If you discover that you're located in an area that isn't properly zoned for your type of business, seek community support for your business. If you can convince zoning and planning boards that your business is indispensable to the community, you may be allowed to stay in your current location.
I recommend:
Enlist the assistance of your local Chamber of Commerce to rally support. Ask customers to sign a petition in your favor and present it to your zoning board.
Consider seeking a variance or conditional use permit
If your business doesn't conform completely to existing zoning laws, you can seek a variance or conditional-use permit by going before the planning or zoning board. Your chances are better if you hire a lawyer who handles zoning matters and knows the regulations and boards in your community.
I recommend:
Search for a lawyer in your area who specializes in land usage and zoning laws at Lawyers.com.
Seek a zoning change
When all else fails, consider petitioning for a zoning change. It's an uphill battle, but it may be worth it if you believe you can generate sufficient income from your business.
I recommend:
The Home-Based Business Council provides a sample ordinance.
Keep your neighbors happy
If you're running a home-based business, you can avoid running into trouble with the zoning board by being considerate of your neighbors. Keep traffic to your home business to a minimum by scheduling meetings off-site and dropping off packages rather than scheduling pick-ups from shipping companies. It's also best to get your business mail through a commercial service and to store inventory off-site.
I recommend:
Click to find a local Mailboxes Etc. or MailboxIT site. Find a self-storage operation at SelfStorage.org. Locate the UPS store nearest you.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide- If new zoning laws are enacted in your area, and your business no longer conforms to them, you can't be forced to relocate or make changes to your operation.
- If in doubt about how zoning or planning officials will treat your business, check with your local Chamber of Commerce.
- If you are setting up a home business, research whether zoning ordinances allow you to have employees at your home.








