Zoning, Variances, and Permitted Use

Here in Houston, there is no "zoning".  That said, there are use restrictions in place in many areas which can be found in local deed restrictions that are recorded with the Harris County Clerk's office.  Most deed restrictions have some vehicle in place that allows for periodic changes or even complete removal.  The most common vehicle used in the City of Houston is applying for a "use variance".  

In the Heights area of Houston, you will frequently see large 4'x8' signs posted by the City of Houston on a tract of land announcing such an application has been made.  Those signs will provide information regarding the variance requested, along with information for protesting the request and deadlines to do so.  An example of such a notice is shown below.


Most other municipalities in Texas have fairly detailed zoning ordinances and maps available with full descriptions of the activities/industries allowed.  A simple web search using the municipality's name and "zoning" or "zoning map" will provide a link directly to the information needed to determine if a tract/parcel can be used for commercial purposes, along with the type of commercial use permitted.  Here's an example for the City of Pearland.


As areas grow and develop, most municipalities will make revisions to their zoning maps, so it is a smart idea to check the municipality's website periodically for any updates.  Note: Counties, as a rule, don't engage in zoning, and provide a letter to that effect.  Here's a link to download an example for Brazoria County: Land Use Letter - Brazoria County

For detailed information regarding zoning, re-zoning, variances, and conditional use permits, there are a couple of sites I recommend: Property Metrics, and Investopedia  Actually, both are prime sites to use for a wide range of commercial real estate and investment information.  Here are links from both specifically dealing with zoning...

Property Metrics - Rezoning, Variance, or Conditional Use Permit: Which One Can Solve Your Zoning Problem?

Investopedia - What Is Zoning?




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