What Is In a Zoning Ordinance?
A zoning ordinance consists of two parts: a map and text. The zoning map shows how the community is divided into different use districts or zones. Zoning districts common to most ordinances include residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural. The zoning map must show precise boundaries for each district. Consequently, zoning maps rely on street or property lines as boundaries within a district. The West Run District outer boundaries follow precinct lines, for ease of a public vote on the Ordinance. The zoning text serves two important functions. First, it explains the zoning rules that apply in each zoning district. These rules typically establish a list of land uses permitted in each district plus a series of specific standards governing lot size, building height, and required yard and setback provisions. Second, the text sets forth a series of procedures for administering and applying the zoning ordinance. The text is divided according to “sections” (or “articles”) for ease
