How are zoning laws related to a business?

Commercial zoning laws control the type of activities a business may conduct in a particular area and the category of business that can occupy the zoned area. Zoning laws often regulate the features of a building as well, such as height and the required setback from the street.

What kind of Business is allowed in residential zone?

Your local planning or zoning department has probably established zones for stores and offices (commercial zones), factories (industrial zones), and houses (residential zones). In some residential areas — especially in affluent communities — local zoning ordinances prohibit all types of business.

How does zoning affect the use of land?

Commercial zoning affects where businesses can carry out business activities. Typically, local governments categorize zoning within a city, municipality, or a county as: Recreational: Land used for recreational activities. The division of land into categorized zones determines how the occupant can use the land in the district.

What to do if a zoning board says you Can’t Run Your Business from your home?

In many cities and counties, if a planning or zoning board says that you can’t run your business from your home, you can appeal — often to the city council or county board of supervisors. While this can sometimes be an uphill battle, it is likely to be less so if you have the support of all affected neighbors.

How does zoning laws apply to a home business?

Depending on what your home business entails, and how the area where your home is located is zoned, you could face legal consequences for operating a home business. As with all businesses, your location matters. In addition to local zoning laws, you should also look up any applicable CCRs (restrictive covenants) or details in your lease.

Can a business be exempt from the zoning code?

Existing businesses within a community are often exempt from new zoning laws. However, if you plan to open a new business in a space formerly occupied by another business, the zoning code will apply to your venture.

What happens if a business is not allowed in a residential area?

If home-based businesses are not allowed according to residential zoning laws in that community, then it is a zoning violation. Conversely, if a business is operating in a commercial area, they usually can’t perform residential functions on the same property.

What happens if you break the zoning law?

A zoning violation involves breaking a property zoning law. For instance, a homeowner decides to open a business in the basement of his home. If home-based businesses are against residential zoning laws in that community, it is a zoning violation. A local government may find out about the violation by inspecting the property.