Answers to Frequently Asked Questions for Residents - Page 2
The following are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions regarding zoning and land use. Additional Resident FAQs are available by following the links at the bottom of the page.
Zoning and Land Use
What is zoning?
Zoning is a local government's ability to regulate the use and development of land. It is designed to protect property values by preventing the location of incompatible uses in close proximity to each other.
Chapter 211, Texas Local Government Code provides the statutory basis for municipal zoning. The powers granted under this chapter are for promoting the public health, safety, morals or general welfare and protecting areas of historical, cultural, or architectural importance. State law generally grants a municipality broad discretion in zoning matters when basing the appropriateness of their decision on such concerns as traffic congestion and proper circulation, fire safety, adequate light and air, population density, adequate provisions for transportation, water, sewers, schools, parks, and other public requirements, suitability of the use and its impact on adjacent properties and the comprehensive development of the City.
Municipalities adopt zoning ordinances which may in general regulate: the height, size, and number of stories of buildings and structures; the percentage of a lot that may be occupied; the size of yards (setbacks), courts, and other open spaces; the location and use of buildings, other structures, and land; and population density.
How can I find zoning, land use, and other such information on my property?
You can find a lot of information on your property in one of three ways:
- Visit our interactive mapping web site. Be sure to check the "parcels" box as well as any other layer of interest to you then click "update maps" to view the zoning information. You can zoom in to any specific area of the city using your cursor or type in an address in the address search field.
- Call us at the
- Visit our offices during regular working hours to review the official City maps and talk to planning staff about your questions.
The city's Land Use Plan is one of the most critical elements of a community's comprehensive plan. It articulates the community's vision for the future development of the city. The Land Use Plan does not carry any regulatory authority, but acts as a guideline for decision making on different development proposals.
More Answers to Frequently Asked Questions for Residents are available in the following categories:
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