Rezoning
A rezoning changes the zoning district on a piece of land, which changes what can be built there and how much.
Also called zone change, zoning map amendment, or zoning change.
What it tells you
A rezoning is often the first public sign that land is about to be developed. It names the land, the intended use, and usually the applicant, before site plans, building permits, or bids exist.
How it moves through a city or county
- An owner or developer files an application with the planning department.
- Planning staff review it and write a report with a recommendation.
- The planning commission holds a public hearing and recommends approval or denial.
- The city council or county commission holds its own hearing and decides, usually by ordinance.
Notice rules, timelines, and body names differ by state. In some states, a protest by nearby owners means the council needs a larger majority to approve.
Recent rezonings
From public filings in Indiana, Tennessee, and Washington.
| Project | Location | Developer | Type | Size | Stage | Latest meeting |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 47-Unit Single-Family Subdivision on 12 Acres | West Lafayette, IN | G&S Land Company, LLC | Single-family | 47 units12 acres | Recommended | |
| 94-Unit Residential Planned Unit Development | Portland, TN | Brimstone Builds | Single-family | 94 homes27.2 acres | Recommended | |
| 2.74-Acre Residential High Rezone for 40-Unit Apartment Site | Ellensburg, WA | Winzer Properties LLC | Multifamily | 40 units2.74 acres | Approved |
As of How we count
Common questions
- Is a rezoning the same as a variance?
- No, a rezoning changes the zoning district itself and usually needs a vote by the city council or county commission. A variance keeps the zoning and relaxes one rule, such as a setback, for a single property.
- Does an approved rezoning mean construction will start?
- No, an approved rezoning only allows the new use. Most projects still need a plat or site plan and building permits, and some are never built.
Rules vary by state, county, and city. These pages describe common practice, not legal advice.
See rezonings near you.
Pick Rezone under Application Type on the Boardwalk map, or search the words in the filing.