FAQs

Can I have a business in my home?: Home businesses are occupations, professions, or activities conducted by one or more members of a family within their home. Some home businesses require a special permit.

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Planning - Property Changes & Uses

1. What is zoning?: Zoning regulates the use of property. All property in the county is located within one of several zoning districts, which govern how property may be used. Zoning districts are generally classified for residential, business, or industrial use. The county’s mapping system can be used as a guide to determine the zoning classification of an individual property.
Parcel Search and Mapping Application

2. How do I determine the zoning I need?: Each zoning district permits certain land uses by right and others by special permit, which may be either a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) or Special Exception (SE). For more information, please see the Determine the Zoning page.

3. Can I subdivide my property?: Property is divided into smaller parcels through the subdivision process. The number and size of lots that a property owner can create depends on the zoning of the property. For full information, please see the Subdividing Property page.

4. Can I divide part of my property for a family member?: If a property owner wishes to divide a parcel of land among family members, the owner may be eligible to use the family division process. Find more information on the Dividing Property for Family page.

5. Can I make my property larger or smaller?: The size of property may be adjusted by changing property lines with adjoining parcels. Even though this transaction does not create a new lot, a surveyor must prepare a property or boundary line adjustment plat that shows the new location of the new property line(s). The reconfigured lots must meet applicable zoning requirements. If the property line adjustment does not involve an existing subdivision, the surveyor's plat does not need to be formally reviewed by the county. Property line adjustments that involve existing subdivision lots require a resubdivision plat review. Resubdivision Application (PDF)

6. Do I need a building permit?: Projects that involve building a new structure, altering an existing structure, demolishing, or changing the use of a structure may require a building permit.

7. Can I have a business in my home?: Home businesses are occupations, professions, or activities conducted by one or more members of a family within their home. Some home businesses require a special permit.

8. Can I add an in-law suite or family apartment to my property?: In many residential zoning districts, an apartment for a qualifying family member(s) is allowed with a Special Exception Permit. For additional information, please see the Adding In-Law Suite or Family Apartment page.

9. Can I keep animals on my property?: Property owners are generally permitted to have domestic animals, such as dogs and cats. For more information, see the Keeping Animals On Your Property page.

10. What types of vehicles can I store on my property?: Certain vehicle types are restricted from residential zoning districts. For full information, see the Restricted Vehicles page.