Module 1: Zoning - The Basics
This session will cover very basic zoning principles and practices. It will begin with a brief overview of the history and background of zoning. Participants will be introduced to the Master Plan and its relationship to zoning and be shown the responsibilities and relationships of the various officials and bodies involved in the zoning process. Influence of changes in legislation and court decisions will also be covered.
Module 2: The Zoning Ordinance
The session will include an overview of the organization and content of the zoning ordinance. Basic terminology and definitions will be covered. Exercises will be conducted to demonstrate the use of the ordinance in looking up basic information. While the City's current ordinance will be used, the session will emphasize the general nature and use of a zoning ordinance in order to translate the experience to the new ordinance.
Module 3: The Zoning Process
This module will briefly cover the various zoning approval processes (special use, site plan approvals, rezonings, planned unit development, variances, appeals, etc.). It will provide a step-by-step overview of the zoning process, beginning from the point of a potential applicant's inquiries to final approval and implementation inspections.
Module 4: Zoning Enforcement
(Conducted in cooperation with City Attorney's office.) This session will include discussion on the importance of an enforcement program, an overview of enforcement processes, and recommendations on techniques and procedures for more effective results. Legal limitations will also be included, e.g., access to property, court procedures, etc.
Module 5: Zoning Issues
This module will consist of 2 parts:
- Nonconformities - Recognizing and dealing with nonconforming uses, buildings, and lots.
- Day-to-day Zoning - Identifying and dealing with top zoning issues found in the city.