Zoning laws are designed to regulate and control how property or land can be used by the owner. These ordinances typically set forth whether properties can be used residentially or commercially.
Over time, the original usage governed by these ordinances can fail to meet the changing demographics of an area. Neighborhoods with many vacant properties may better serve their communities by getting rezoned for commercial usage. But the process is never automatic.
How to rezone properties
To rezone a property, you must petition the city or municipality that deals with these matters. There typically is a planning or zoning committee or commission you can approach for guidelines about the process of rezoning.
Your petition should clarify why the zoning should be changed. The zoning committee will be unfazed by arguments about how it will personally benefit you. Their concern is the overall effect that the zoning will have on the neighbors and the entire community.
Emphasize the positive
If there is a dearth of affordable housing in your community, it may further your cause to explain how your proposed housing complex will provide units for individuals and families at rents they can afford to pay.
Communicate your intentions
When you petition to rezone a property, those who live around the area to be rezoned will have an opportunity to approve or reject the proposed rezoning. It can help your case to address the issue with your future neighbors — and really listen to any objections they have, because the zoning board certainly will.
Address their concerns proactively by having a well-thought-out plan in place for parking, noise issues, increased litter, etc. Let them know you intend to give more than lip service to these potential problems that could reduce their quality of life.
Finally, learning all you can about the zoning laws in your town can help you prepare the best possible argument in favor of rezoning the property.