Most citizens understandably “zone out” on the topic of zoning – and rezoning – until it comes to their backyard. In a nutshell, zoning controls the development of property by governing two aspects of land use. First, the uses permitted within a given zoning district are identified, and second, the amount of buildable area is regulated.
Every parcel in Springfield has a zoning classification. Zoning laws help preserve property values, protect neighborhoods, provide opportunities for economic growth and ensure that the City is well-planned.
In general, zoning is divided into three major classifications: Residential, Commercial, and Industrial.
The zoning district determines the building height, lot coverage, setbacks from right of way and adjacent properties. The zoning ordinance also specifies the amount of parking required for each use and the size and number of signs permitted, along with other development parameters.
[pullquote]Zoning is not a permanent process. Rezoning is a change in the zoning classification of a property.
The nine-member Planning and Zoning Commission holds public hearings and makes recommendations on zoning issues.[/pullquote]
P&Z Commission members are appointed by City Council and serve without compensation. The members hold office for four-year terms and may serve a maximum of two consecutive terms.
The City’s Zoning Ordinance and Comprehensive Plan guide the decisions of the Planning and Zoning Commission.
The steps involved in the public hearing and rezoning process include:
1. Application is submitted to the Planning and Development department and reviewed for accuracy and completeness.
2. A neighborhood meeting is held at least 21 days before a proposal goes before the Planning and Zoning Commission. All residents and organized neighborhood associations within 500 feet are notified by mail at least 10 days in advance. The attendance list, comments and questions from the neighborhood meeting are included with the documents that go to the Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council.
3. Public hearing date is set.
4. Signs are posted on the property. This may be the first information surrounding residents have regarding the pending change of zoning. (at least 10 days prior to the public hearing)
5. Letters are mailed to property owners within 185 feet of the proposed rezoning area notifying them of the public hearing (at least 10 days prior to the public hearing). The proposal is also published in The Daily Events at least 15 days prior to the public hearing.
6. Public hearing is held. The P&Z Commission holds public hearings on more than one zoning request at a meeting.
7. The Commission takes the matter under advisement and recommends (or does not recommend) the proposal to City Council, which makes the final decision.
Here’s how you can stay on top of a rezoning request in your neighborhood
Be aware of when something is occurring in the neighborhood. Watch for the bright orange zoning signs placed on a piece of property. Also, be aware of receiving notification through the mail regarding a neighborhood meeting and public hearings before the Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council about the project. Being active in your neighborhood association can also help to make you aware of when a proposal has been made in your neighborhood.
Be informed. Once you know there is a proposal, find out the details about what is being proposed. You can contact the development review division in the Planning department to get more information about the request and important dates related to the project.
Attend the neighborhood meeting. This is a great opportunity to find out more about the project, ask questions and voice support for or concerns about the request. Projects are sometimes changed based on feedback and communication received at the neighborhood meeting.
Let your voice be heard. Plan to attend the public hearings before the P&Z Commission and City Council. This is your opportunity to let the Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council know your concerns regarding the proposal or support for the project. If you are unable to attend the public hearing, you can also write a letter or send an e-mail prior to the public hearings, and that information will be forwarded for consideration at the hearing.