Zoning Code Compliance - The first step in buying Commercial Business Property
Most counties are “Open for Business” and encourage new business growth in their municipalities.
Commercial businesses generate local employment, pay taxes and are good for the local economy. Each jurisdiction has local rules and regulations that every business owner must follow. Counties and local jurisdictions use zoning to guide growth and development in harmony with current and future land use and to protect health, safety, appearance, and prosperity. However, understanding each ordinance and updated regulations along with the property’s history, can be a very tedious and difficult process.
The first step is to find out which zoning district the property is located within. The next step is to find out what is permitted in that Zoning district and what is not, in relation to land use and construction or modifications of structures. Before you make any commercial real estate decisions regarding a purchase, ensure zoning will not be a bottleneck in your business plan. You must also apply for a zoning permit before building, remodeling or opening any property coded as located within commercial or business zones.
Prior to closing commercial properties, many of the following documents are required:
- Building and Zoning Code Violation Letters
- Zoning Verification Letters
- Certificates of Occupancy
- Building Permits
- Variances, Special Use Permits or Conditional Use Permits
- Planned Unit Developments
- Site Plans
- Zoning Codes
- Building Permits
- Business License Permits
- Conditional Use Permits
- Special Exceptions
- Highlighting Color Permits
- New Commercial Developments
Zoning due diligence and research can be very tedious and complex. Title companies, real estate attorneys, mortgage companies, individuals, property managers and lenders hire The Planning and Zoning Resource Corporation for their expertise, experience, efficiency and reliability in zoning related matters. PZR is the oldest, largest and most established zoning research company in America and we can help you for all your zoning needs. Please contact us today and we will be happy to help you.
