Zoning Code | Frequently Asked Questions

Hello! Content on this website is provided as a convenience and is for informational use only. Be sure to review the Terms of Use for all of the details related to your use of this website.
Accept
Accessory Structures and Uses
Can a pool cover substitute for a fence around a swimming pool?

A perimeter fence is required. While a property owner can install a pool cover, it does not substitute for a fence. VERIFY

Can I build a fence?

As a general rule, most properties are able to have a fence. The height of fences are regulated, along with where a fence may be located. A zoning permit is generally required. If you live in a residential subdivision, covenants may also restrict fences. 

Do I need a permit for a swimming pool?

You must obtain a zoning permit prior to constructing a residential in-ground swimming pool and a permanent above-ground swimming pool made of a rigid, noninflatable material and with a diameter in excess of 15 feet. Any alterations, additions, remodeling or other improvements such as decks or fences associated with a pool also require permit approval prior to construction.

What is the difference between a principal building and an accessory building?

A principal building houses the principal land use of the lot on which it is located. An accessory building is subordinate in size and use to the principal use of the property. A house in a single-family zoning district, for example, is the principal building and a yard shed is an accessory building.

What types of land uses are allowed on my property?

The Town's zoning code establishes various land use districts and lists what land uses are allowed in each. This information is included in the Interactive Map. Find your parcel and click on the map or select the zoning district from the menu. The land uses allowed in that district will be displayed in the side menu.

Animals
Can I have backyard chickens?

I. Domestic animals, other than common household pets, are prohibited outside of Agricultural and Conservancy Districts except as follows:

(1) R-1 District outside of subdivisions and with a minimum area of two acres, limit: one animal unit.

(2) R-2, R-4, R-5 and B-1 Districts.

(a) Minimum two acres, limit: one animal unit.

(b) Minimum three acres, limit: one animal unit or two horses.

(c) minimum five acres, limit: two animal units or three horses.

(d) Minimum nine acres, limit: two animal units or five horses.
Note: A conditional use permit (CUP) is required for keeping domestic animals in the B-1 District.

(3) Roosters are prohibited.

Application Review
According to the Town's zoning code, a proposed use is listed as being permitted by right. What does that mean?

A land use that is designated as being permitted by right does not require a public meeting to determine if the use can occur within a given zoning district. A land use permitted by right still must comply with all other applicable provisions in the Town's zoning code.

Can a decision made by the Zoning Administrator be appealed?

The Zoning Administrator is authorized to make various decisions which are administrative in nature. Those decisions can be appealed to the Board of Appeals. An appeal must be made soon after the decision. Details about the procedures and other details are posted Here. 

Can a decision of the Board of Appeals be appealed?

Yes; appeals are made to the circuit court and generally must be filed with the court soon after the decision has been made.

Can a decision of the Plan Commission be appealed?

Although the Plan Commission generally makes recommendations, there are some instances (e.g., conditional uses) where the Commission makes the final decision. Conditional use decisions can be appealed to the Town Board, but only when the appeal has been submitted to the Zoning Administrator within 10 days of the Commission's decision.

Can a decision of the Town Board be appealed?

Yes; appeals are made to the circuit court and generally must be filed with the court soon after the decision has been made.

My application was denied. Can I resubmit another application?

As described in §360-21 of the zoning code, an application which has been dismissed or denied may not be considered again without material alteration or revision within one year of the decision, except on the grounds that substantial new evidence or proof of change to comply with the applicable conditions is included in the resubmitted application. Go to §360-21.

The review process for a development application includes a public hearing. What's that?

A public hearing is intended to allow the petitioner the opportunity to describe their proposed project and interested parties the opportunity to share their concerns with the reviewing authority. While all public comments are welcome, speakers should focus on those elements of the project that are within the review authority's scope of authority. Consistent with established policies, public comments may be limited in duration to make sure everyone can be heard.

What is a determination of completeness?

As part of the development review process, staff will review the materials that have been submitted to make sure the application submittal is complete and ready for formal review. If an application submittal is not complete, staff will notify the applicant and describe the parts that are not complete. 

A determination that an application is complete means the application is ready for formal review and does not suggest the applicant has provided sufficient information in all regards or preclude the reviewing authority from requesting additional information it deems appropriate.

What is a Section 106 review?

Under the National Historic Preservation Act (Section 106), federal agencies need to consider how the projects they carry out, assist, fund, permit, license, or approve could potentially affect historic properties, if any are present. When it comes to telecommunication facilities, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) reviews certain facilities and must therefore give the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP), other agencies, local communities, and citizens the opportunity to weigh in on potential impacts of proposed facilities on historic properties. This review is unrelated to any local zoning requirements.

Can I contact one or more of the members serving on the Board of Appeals to run some ideas by them? It would certainly help me prepare my application.

No. The members on the Board of Appeals are similar in many respects to a judge. They hear and evaluate evidence in a public forum and render a decision within the context of local, state, and, in some cases, federal law. This is referred to as a "quasi-judicial" decision. It is not proper for anyone - the applicant, a proponent, or an opponent - to contact a board member regarding a potential or pending application. Because these private conversations, referred to as "ex parte communication" should not occur, all parties can be assured of an unbiased proceeding, even if they do not agree with the outcome.

Can I submit a petition to have the zoning classification of my property changed?

Yes. As the property owner, you may submit an application to rezone your property. A change in the zoning map amends the zoning code. For more details on how the code can be amended go to the Permit Center page, select Code Amendment from the list.

If I submit an application and it is not approved, can I get my application fee back?

Application fees are not refundable. They are intended to cover the costs necessary to review the application. 

Will I be notified of proposed development projects?

Consistent with state law and the Town's zoning code, we need to send out notices to surrounding property owners for certain kinds of development applications that are submitted for review. 

You can however sign up to receive email alerts for all development applications that may be of interest. Go to the eAlerts page and subscribe by submitting your email address and the search parameter you want. You can unsubscribe or change your preferences at any time.

Fences
Can a pool cover substitute for a fence around a swimming pool?

A perimeter fence is required. While a property owner can install a pool cover, it does not substitute for a fence. VERIFY

Can I build a fence?

As a general rule, most properties are able to have a fence. The height of fences are regulated, along with where a fence may be located. A zoning permit is generally required. If you live in a residential subdivision, covenants may also restrict fences. 

Do I need a permit for a swimming pool?

You must obtain a zoning permit prior to constructing a residential in-ground swimming pool and a permanent above-ground swimming pool made of a rigid, noninflatable material and with a diameter in excess of 15 feet. Any alterations, additions, remodeling or other improvements such as decks or fences associated with a pool also require permit approval prior to construction.

For Developers
How can I find out how a parcel of land is zoned?

A zoning map, adopted as part of the zoning code, shows where the various zoning districts are located. Go to the Interactive Map. There you can click on a parcel or search by address, parcel number, or owner name.

What is an easement?

An easement is generally a defined area on a parcel that gives another person the right to use that area for a specific purpose. For example, a driveway easement allows a property owner to establish a driveway on another person's property for their benefit.

Can I submit a petition to have the zoning classification of my property changed?

Yes. As the property owner, you may submit an application to rezone your property. A change in the zoning map amends the zoning code. For more details on how the code can be amended go to the Permit Center page, select Code Amendment from the list.

I need to hire a professional surveyor. Can you recommend one?

The Town cannot recommend any particular surveyor. We do however maintain a list of surveyors and offer it as a public service. Click to open page. Surveyors must be licensed by the state of Wisconsin. Add link if town wants to create the page.

I noticed there are some tax increment financing (TIF) district on the Interactive Map. What is a TIF district?

Municipalities are given the authority in state statutes to create tax increment financing (TIF) district in certain circumstances to help finance public expenditures needed to spur economic development within the district. The Town of Rome has one active TIF district

While TIF districts do not specifically relate to zoning, the TIF districts are included on this website because they potentially could relate to the land development process and what get's developed and how.

I reviewed the list of land uses but didn't see anything that describes what I'd like to do. Are there any options?

If the Town's zoning regulations don't include the use you'd like to do, you can submit an application to amend the regulations. The details for that process are posted on the Permit Center page, select Code Amendment.

What happens if there are outstanding permits on a property?

Property owners are sometimes surprised to learn that there are permit approvals that have not been closed out. Typically, this involves a final inspection following completion of the work. In some cases, outstanding permits can slow down or derail the sale of a property. That's because a new homeowner, and sometimes lenders, need to know that work done on the property complies with local requirements.

What is a zoning map?

A zoning map is part of the zoning regulations and shows where the various zoning districts are located. The land uses that are permitted will vary from district to district. This is also true for development standards including minimum lot size, lot coverage, and setback requirements. The purpose of establishing zoning designations within a community is to ensure that neighboring land uses are compatible with one another. For example, residential uses are generally not compatible with industrial uses. The various zoning districts are depicted on the Interactive Map.

Will my property taxes change, if my property is rezoned to a different zoning classification?

Because the assessed value of a property is based on many factors, there is unfortunately no simple answer. You may want to contact the assessor (Associated Appraisal Consultants, Inc) at 920-749-1995.

For Property Owner/Buyer
How can I find out how a parcel of land is zoned?

A zoning map, adopted as part of the zoning code, shows where the various zoning districts are located. Go to the Interactive Map. There you can click on a parcel or search by address, parcel number, or owner name.

My neighbor and I disagree on the location of the boundary line of our properties. Is this a zoning issue?

No. This is not a zoning issue. Boundary disputes are personal legal matters and are not within the jurisdiction of the municipality, unless a municipal boundary is the issue. You may want to hire a registered land surveyor to examine the dispute. You may also want to seek the advice of an attorney.

My neighbor's tree hangs over the fence into my yard. Is this a zoning issue?

No, this is not a zoning issue. Talk to your neighbor to see if the branches can be pruned or perhaps removed. Because this is a civil matter, you may want to consult an attorney to see if you have any legal recourse.

What happens to a variance when a property is sold?

If a variance has been approved, the approval runs with the land. This means that a variance will continue in effect as the property is transferred from one owner to the next. All terms and conditions of the variance remain unchanged and apply to the current and future property owners.

What is an easement?

An easement is generally a defined area on a parcel that gives another person the right to use that area for a specific purpose. For example, a driveway easement allows a property owner to establish a driveway on another person's property for their benefit.

Can I submit a petition to have the zoning classification of my property changed?

Yes. As the property owner, you may submit an application to rezone your property. A change in the zoning map amends the zoning code. For more details on how the code can be amended go to the Permit Center page, select Code Amendment from the list.

How can I get an address assigned to my property?

The Town's building inspector issues addresses in the Town. In some cases, an address has already been assigned. If there is no address, you'll need to submit a map showing the location of the proposed access point. VERIFY

I need to hire a professional surveyor. Can you recommend one?

The Town cannot recommend any particular surveyor. We do however maintain a list of surveyors and offer it as a public service. Click to open page. Surveyors must be licensed by the state of Wisconsin. Add link if town wants to create the page.

I reviewed the list of land uses but didn't see anything that describes what I'd like to do. Are there any options?

If the Town's zoning regulations don't include the use you'd like to do, you can submit an application to amend the regulations. The details for that process are posted on the Permit Center page, select Code Amendment.

If I submit a written complaint regarding an alleged zoning violation, does that complaint become a public record?

Yes.  In most cases, a zoning complaint is a public record and may be released upon request to any person requesting a copy. VERIFY

The Towns' zoning code allows adult uses. Why is that?

The Town is not able to prevent all adult uses. Based on court precedent, the Town must accommodate those types of uses. The Town does however have the ability to regulate where they can be located and impose limitations on their operation to address the negative secondary effects of such uses. 

What happens if there are outstanding permits on a property?

Property owners are sometimes surprised to learn that there are permit approvals that have not been closed out. Typically, this involves a final inspection following completion of the work. In some cases, outstanding permits can slow down or derail the sale of a property. That's because a new homeowner, and sometimes lenders, need to know that work done on the property complies with local requirements.

Where can I find the Town's official zoning map (the paper copy)?

The Town's official zoning map is kept in the Town Clerk's office as a public record. You may stop by the Town Hall during normal office hours to view the map.

Will my property taxes change, if my property is rezoned to a different zoning classification?

Because the assessed value of a property is based on many factors, there is unfortunately no simple answer. You may want to contact the assessor (Associated Appraisal Consultants, Inc) at 920-749-1995.

Historic Preservation
What is a Section 106 review?

Under the National Historic Preservation Act (Section 106), federal agencies need to consider how the projects they carry out, assist, fund, permit, license, or approve could potentially affect historic properties, if any are present. When it comes to telecommunication facilities, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) reviews certain facilities and must therefore give the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP), other agencies, local communities, and citizens the opportunity to weigh in on potential impacts of proposed facilities on historic properties. This review is unrelated to any local zoning requirements.

Land Divisions
What are covenants and who enforces them?

Covenants or deed restrictions are limitations often imposed by the person creating a subdivision. As such, they are a private agreement by and between those parties who own property covered by the covenants. They are not enforced by the Town or any other governmental entity that is not specifically mentioned as being a party to the restrictions. Those persons owning property covered by the covenants have the right to enforce covenants. In some instances, a property owner wishing to enforce the terms of a covenant may need to hire legal counsel to resolve covenant issues. 

Neighbor Issues
My neighbor and I disagree on the location of the boundary line of our properties. Is this a zoning issue?

No. This is not a zoning issue. Boundary disputes are personal legal matters and are not within the jurisdiction of the municipality, unless a municipal boundary is the issue. You may want to hire a registered land surveyor to examine the dispute. You may also want to seek the advice of an attorney.

The Towns' zoning code allows adult uses. Why is that?

The Town is not able to prevent all adult uses. Based on court precedent, the Town must accommodate those types of uses. The Town does however have the ability to regulate where they can be located and impose limitations on their operation to address the negative secondary effects of such uses. 

My neighbor's tree hangs over the fence into my yard. Is this a zoning issue?

No, this is not a zoning issue. Talk to your neighbor to see if the branches can be pruned or perhaps removed. Because this is a civil matter, you may want to consult an attorney to see if you have any legal recourse.

What are covenants and who enforces them?

Covenants or deed restrictions are limitations often imposed by the person creating a subdivision. As such, they are a private agreement by and between those parties who own property covered by the covenants. They are not enforced by the Town or any other governmental entity that is not specifically mentioned as being a party to the restrictions. Those persons owning property covered by the covenants have the right to enforce covenants. In some instances, a property owner wishing to enforce the terms of a covenant may need to hire legal counsel to resolve covenant issues. 

What is an easement?

An easement is generally a defined area on a parcel that gives another person the right to use that area for a specific purpose. For example, a driveway easement allows a property owner to establish a driveway on another person's property for their benefit.

How do I know where the property boundary lines for a property are located?

If you are looking for the general location of lot lines, the Interactive Zoning map on this website is a good place to start. Please understand though that those lot lines are approximate and do not substitute for a survey prepared by a registered land surveyor.

A legal description describes where a property is located, and metal rods, placed in the ground by a registered surveyor, identify certain points along the perimeter of the property. Locating property boundary lines can be a challenge though, especially for lots that have not been recently surveyed. Survey markers may not have ever been established, or if placed in the ground, they can be inadvertently removed or become buried. If you are not able to find one or more survey markers and need to know precisely where a boundary line is located, you will need to hire a registered surveyor.

If I submit a written complaint regarding an alleged zoning violation, does that complaint become a public record?

Yes.  In most cases, a zoning complaint is a public record and may be released upon request to any person requesting a copy. VERIFY

Permitting
How can I find out how a parcel of land is zoned?

A zoning map, adopted as part of the zoning code, shows where the various zoning districts are located. Go to the Interactive Map. There you can click on a parcel or search by address, parcel number, or owner name.

Can a decision made by the Zoning Administrator be appealed?

The Zoning Administrator is authorized to make various decisions which are administrative in nature. Those decisions can be appealed to the Board of Appeals. An appeal must be made soon after the decision. Details about the procedures and other details are posted Here. 

Can a decision of the Board of Appeals be appealed?

Yes; appeals are made to the circuit court and generally must be filed with the court soon after the decision has been made.

Can a decision of the Plan Commission be appealed?

Although the Plan Commission generally makes recommendations, there are some instances (e.g., conditional uses) where the Commission makes the final decision. Conditional use decisions can be appealed to the Town Board, but only when the appeal has been submitted to the Zoning Administrator within 10 days of the Commission's decision.

Can a decision of the Town Board be appealed?

Yes; appeals are made to the circuit court and generally must be filed with the court soon after the decision has been made.

Can I submit a petition to have the zoning classification of my property changed?

Yes. As the property owner, you may submit an application to rezone your property. A change in the zoning map amends the zoning code. For more details on how the code can be amended go to the Permit Center page, select Code Amendment from the list.

Do I need to set up an account to submit an application online?

No. We designed our system to be as simple as possible.

How can I get an address assigned to my property?

The Town's building inspector issues addresses in the Town. In some cases, an address has already been assigned. If there is no address, you'll need to submit a map showing the location of the proposed access point. VERIFY

I need to hire a professional surveyor. Can you recommend one?

The Town cannot recommend any particular surveyor. We do however maintain a list of surveyors and offer it as a public service. Click to open page. Surveyors must be licensed by the state of Wisconsin. Add link if town wants to create the page.

I reviewed the list of land uses but didn't see anything that describes what I'd like to do. Are there any options?

If the Town's zoning regulations don't include the use you'd like to do, you can submit an application to amend the regulations. The details for that process are posted on the Permit Center page, select Code Amendment.

My application was denied. Can I resubmit another application?

As described in §360-21 of the zoning code, an application which has been dismissed or denied may not be considered again without material alteration or revision within one year of the decision, except on the grounds that substantial new evidence or proof of change to comply with the applicable conditions is included in the resubmitted application. Go to §360-21.

What is a determination of completeness?

As part of the development review process, staff will review the materials that have been submitted to make sure the application submittal is complete and ready for formal review. If an application submittal is not complete, staff will notify the applicant and describe the parts that are not complete. 

A determination that an application is complete means the application is ready for formal review and does not suggest the applicant has provided sufficient information in all regards or preclude the reviewing authority from requesting additional information it deems appropriate.

What's the difference between a building permit and a zoning permit? Which comes first?

A zoning permit ensures that the proposed project complies with the Town's zoning regulations in terms of the actual use of the property, the location of proposed uses and buildings, and development standards. A building permit verifies that the proposed work complies with building code regulations, including construction design and specifications. The zoning administrator issues zoning permits and the building inspector issues building permits. A building permit can only be issued after a zoning permit has been issued. 

Where can I find the Town's official zoning map (the paper copy)?

The Town's official zoning map is kept in the Town Clerk's office as a public record. You may stop by the Town Hall during normal office hours to view the map.

Will I be notified of proposed development projects?

Consistent with state law and the Town's zoning code, we need to send out notices to surrounding property owners for certain kinds of development applications that are submitted for review. 

You can however sign up to receive email alerts for all development applications that may be of interest. Go to the eAlerts page and subscribe by submitting your email address and the search parameter you want. You can unsubscribe or change your preferences at any time.

Signs
Are there requirements regulating signs and do I need a permit?

Sign regulations are found in Article XXV of the zoning code. Some signs can be installed without a permit provided all of the standards are met. All other signs must get a permit before installation.

Swimming Pools
Can a pool cover substitute for a fence around a swimming pool?

A perimeter fence is required. While a property owner can install a pool cover, it does not substitute for a fence. VERIFY

Do I need a permit for a swimming pool?

You must obtain a zoning permit prior to constructing a residential in-ground swimming pool and a permanent above-ground swimming pool made of a rigid, noninflatable material and with a diameter in excess of 15 feet. Any alterations, additions, remodeling or other improvements such as decks or fences associated with a pool also require permit approval prior to construction.

Telecommunication Facilities
If a telecommunication facility is collocated, are there different review requirements based on the type of the proposed work?

Under state law (and by extension, the Town's zoning regulations) there are two types of collocations. A Class 1 collocation is where the proposed work constitutes a "substantial modification." In contrast, a Class 2 collocation does not constitute a "substantial modification." In general, a Class 1 collocation is reviewed like a new tower, while a Class 2 is reviewed administratively.

What is a Section 106 review?

Under the National Historic Preservation Act (Section 106), federal agencies need to consider how the projects they carry out, assist, fund, permit, license, or approve could potentially affect historic properties, if any are present. When it comes to telecommunication facilities, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) reviews certain facilities and must therefore give the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (ACHP), other agencies, local communities, and citizens the opportunity to weigh in on potential impacts of proposed facilities on historic properties. This review is unrelated to any local zoning requirements.

The Basics
Some of the land uses have Supplemental Standards. What are they?

Supplemental standards are requirements that apply to a specific land use. They apply whether the use is allowed with or without any type of formal review.

The Towns' zoning code allows adult uses. Why is that?

The Town is not able to prevent all adult uses. Based on court precedent, the Town must accommodate those types of uses. The Town does however have the ability to regulate where they can be located and impose limitations on their operation to address the negative secondary effects of such uses. 

Where can I find the Town's official zoning map (the paper copy)?

The Town's official zoning map is kept in the Town Clerk's office as a public record. You may stop by the Town Hall during normal office hours to view the map.

According to the Town's zoning code, a proposed use is listed as being permitted by right. What does that mean?

A land use that is designated as being permitted by right does not require a public meeting to determine if the use can occur within a given zoning district. A land use permitted by right still must comply with all other applicable provisions in the Town's zoning code.

How can I get an address assigned to my property?

The Town's building inspector issues addresses in the Town. In some cases, an address has already been assigned. If there is no address, you'll need to submit a map showing the location of the proposed access point. VERIFY

What is the municipal code?

The municipal code is a compilation of various ordinances adopted by the Town Board. The municipal code for the Town of Rome is organized into more than 50 chapters. It is available online. Go to municipal code.

What if the zoning district does not allow a use I'd like to do?

A property owner can submit an application to rezone the property to another classification that allows the proposed use (i.e., map amendment). If the Town's zoning code does not allow the proposed use in any of the zoning districts, a property owner can submit an application to revise the text to allow the use in one or more of the zoning districts (i.e., text amendment). To get more details on the process and basic requirements go to the Permit Center page and select Code Amendment.

What is the difference between a principal building and an accessory building?

A principal building houses the principal land use of the lot on which it is located. An accessory building is subordinate in size and use to the principal use of the property. A house in a single-family zoning district, for example, is the principal building and a yard shed is an accessory building.

What are covenants and who enforces them?

Covenants or deed restrictions are limitations often imposed by the person creating a subdivision. As such, they are a private agreement by and between those parties who own property covered by the covenants. They are not enforced by the Town or any other governmental entity that is not specifically mentioned as being a party to the restrictions. Those persons owning property covered by the covenants have the right to enforce covenants. In some instances, a property owner wishing to enforce the terms of a covenant may need to hire legal counsel to resolve covenant issues. 

How can I find out how a parcel of land is zoned?

A zoning map, adopted as part of the zoning code, shows where the various zoning districts are located. Go to the Interactive Map. There you can click on a parcel or search by address, parcel number, or owner name.

What is a zoning map?

A zoning map is part of the zoning regulations and shows where the various zoning districts are located. The land uses that are permitted will vary from district to district. This is also true for development standards including minimum lot size, lot coverage, and setback requirements. The purpose of establishing zoning designations within a community is to ensure that neighboring land uses are compatible with one another. For example, residential uses are generally not compatible with industrial uses. The various zoning districts are depicted on the Interactive Map.

Uses of My Land
Can I submit a petition to have the zoning classification of my property changed?

Yes. As the property owner, you may submit an application to rezone your property. A change in the zoning map amends the zoning code. For more details on how the code can be amended go to the Permit Center page, select Code Amendment from the list.

I reviewed the list of land uses but didn't see anything that describes what I'd like to do. Are there any options?

If the Town's zoning regulations don't include the use you'd like to do, you can submit an application to amend the regulations. The details for that process are posted on the Permit Center page, select Code Amendment.

Some of the land uses have Supplemental Standards. What are they?

Supplemental standards are requirements that apply to a specific land use. They apply whether the use is allowed with or without any type of formal review.

What if the zoning district does not allow a use I'd like to do?

A property owner can submit an application to rezone the property to another classification that allows the proposed use (i.e., map amendment). If the Town's zoning code does not allow the proposed use in any of the zoning districts, a property owner can submit an application to revise the text to allow the use in one or more of the zoning districts (i.e., text amendment). To get more details on the process and basic requirements go to the Permit Center page and select Code Amendment.

What is a zoning map?

A zoning map is part of the zoning regulations and shows where the various zoning districts are located. The land uses that are permitted will vary from district to district. This is also true for development standards including minimum lot size, lot coverage, and setback requirements. The purpose of establishing zoning designations within a community is to ensure that neighboring land uses are compatible with one another. For example, residential uses are generally not compatible with industrial uses. The various zoning districts are depicted on the Interactive Map.

What types of land uses are allowed on my property?

The Town's zoning code establishes various land use districts and lists what land uses are allowed in each. This information is included in the Interactive Map. Find your parcel and click on the map or select the zoning district from the menu. The land uses allowed in that district will be displayed in the side menu.

Where can I find the Town's official zoning map (the paper copy)?

The Town's official zoning map is kept in the Town Clerk's office as a public record. You may stop by the Town Hall during normal office hours to view the map.

How can I find out how a parcel of land is zoned?

A zoning map, adopted as part of the zoning code, shows where the various zoning districts are located. Go to the Interactive Map. There you can click on a parcel or search by address, parcel number, or owner name.

Using this Website
How can I find out how a parcel of land is zoned?

A zoning map, adopted as part of the zoning code, shows where the various zoning districts are located. Go to the Interactive Map. There you can click on a parcel or search by address, parcel number, or owner name.

If I sign up for eAlerts, can I unsubscribe at any time?

Yes; just click on the Unsubscribe link. Its included in all of the eAlert notifications that are sent out.

If I signed up for eAlerts, how can I change the search ring?

The best way is to unsubscribe and then subscribe again with your preferred search criteria. To unsubscribe, click on the link that's included in all of the eAlert notifications that are sent out.

I've signed up for eAlerts, but I haven't received any notifications yet. What's up?

We only send out eAlerts for those development applications that are subject to review at a public meeting. If you selected a small search circle when you signed up, that may also limit the number of eAlerts that you receive. Its also possible you mistyped your email address when signing up. 

What types of land uses are allowed on my property?

The Town's zoning code establishes various land use districts and lists what land uses are allowed in each. This information is included in the Interactive Map. Find your parcel and click on the map or select the zoning district from the menu. The land uses allowed in that district will be displayed in the side menu.

Where can I find the Town's official zoning map (the paper copy)?

The Town's official zoning map is kept in the Town Clerk's office as a public record. You may stop by the Town Hall during normal office hours to view the map.

Will I be notified of proposed development projects?

Consistent with state law and the Town's zoning code, we need to send out notices to surrounding property owners for certain kinds of development applications that are submitted for review. 

You can however sign up to receive email alerts for all development applications that may be of interest. Go to the eAlerts page and subscribe by submitting your email address and the search parameter you want. You can unsubscribe or change your preferences at any time.

Variances
Can a decision of the Board of Appeals be appealed?

Yes; appeals are made to the circuit court and generally must be filed with the court soon after the decision has been made.

What happens to a variance when a property is sold?

If a variance has been approved, the approval runs with the land. This means that a variance will continue in effect as the property is transferred from one owner to the next. All terms and conditions of the variance remain unchanged and apply to the current and future property owners.

The Board of Appeals approved a variance similar to the one that I will be requesting. Can I assume my application will be approved as well?

No, not necessarily. In making their decision, the Board of Appeals must apply a set of criteria based on the particular circumstances of the request. Because no two zoning cases are exactly the same, the outcomes may be quite different. 

Can I contact one or more of the members serving on the Board of Appeals to run some ideas by them? It would certainly help me prepare my application.

No. The members on the Board of Appeals are similar in many respects to a judge. They hear and evaluate evidence in a public forum and render a decision within the context of local, state, and, in some cases, federal law. This is referred to as a "quasi-judicial" decision. It is not proper for anyone - the applicant, a proponent, or an opponent - to contact a board member regarding a potential or pending application. Because these private conversations, referred to as "ex parte communication" should not occur, all parties can be assured of an unbiased proceeding, even if they do not agree with the outcome.

Violations and Enforcement
If I submit a written complaint regarding an alleged zoning violation, does that complaint become a public record?

Yes.  In most cases, a zoning complaint is a public record and may be released upon request to any person requesting a copy. VERIFY

Zoning Code Amendments
Can I submit a petition to have the zoning classification of my property changed?

Yes. As the property owner, you may submit an application to rezone your property. A change in the zoning map amends the zoning code. For more details on how the code can be amended go to the Permit Center page, select Code Amendment from the list.

I reviewed the list of land uses but didn't see anything that describes what I'd like to do. Are there any options?

If the Town's zoning regulations don't include the use you'd like to do, you can submit an application to amend the regulations. The details for that process are posted on the Permit Center page, select Code Amendment.

What is a zoning map?

A zoning map is part of the zoning regulations and shows where the various zoning districts are located. The land uses that are permitted will vary from district to district. This is also true for development standards including minimum lot size, lot coverage, and setback requirements. The purpose of establishing zoning designations within a community is to ensure that neighboring land uses are compatible with one another. For example, residential uses are generally not compatible with industrial uses. The various zoning districts are depicted on the Interactive Map.