What is zoning, why is it so important in real estate, and how do you learn more about it?
To put it simply, zoning is a set of rules created by cities and counties that determines most of what you can and can’t do with a property. There can be other rules established by deed restrictions and homeowner’s associations, but zoning is the common factor in all Florida real estate.
As a landowner or land buyer, it’s critical to determine the zoning a property. The best way to do this is to google the city or county planning and zoning department, and give them a call. Make sure you have the property’s address or parcel ID number. You can simply ask planning staff what the zoning of the property is, and what you can and can’t do with the land.
Depending on what your plans are for the property, you may need a zoning variance or special exception. Or, you may need to consider rezoning the property altogether. These processes can be lengthy, tedious, and there’s no guarantee of approval. I’ll take about that in a separate article.
For now, make sure you know the zoning designation for your property or a property you’re looking to buy. It’s one of the most important parts of your due diligence.
If you found this article helpful and you want to get more information about how to buy and sell land, please share it!