When it comes to land use and property zoning, there is a lot to consider. This can be especially hard if you’re unaware of the processes that go into zoning. Luckily, we’ve put together this handy guide to land use and property zoning in Texas; read on for more information on what property zoning entails, whether local property zoning and land-use regulations are necessary, and the pros and cons of zoning.
In real estate, zoning ordinances refer to the laws and regulations governing how a piece of property can be used or developed based on geographic location. Usually, there are seven categories into which a piece of real estate could fall: residential, commercial, mixed-use, industrial, agricultural, green space, and tourism.
Usually, a development authority in Texas, in charge of urban planning, takes cognizance of the land bank to ensure the all-round development of the area. The authority then creates zones to divide the land based on its usage and purpose. The entire process of dividing the land bank and then assigning a purpose is called zoning.
Land-use regulation is an umbrella term for rules that govern land development, and zoning is an important type of land-use regulation. Zoning and land-use regulations control the development of private land through use, density, design, and historic preservation requirements.
Local property zoning and land-use regulations in Texas have increased substantially over the past few decades. These constraints on land development within cities and suburbs aim to achieve various safety, environmental, and aesthetic goals.
In the real estate development world, there’s a lot of controversy about land use regulations. Some say they provide benefits, while others say they unfairly increase property or housing prices.
Zoning can ensure adequate light, privacy, and noise levels in residential areas. There is also some control against gentrification when zoning is used to ensure that housing prices in an area are affordable and within the range of other necessary services. With zoning, property values are protected, and existing neighborhoods or structures can be conserved. Finally, land use is more controlled for compatibility via legal measures instead of just social ones, when it comes to zoning.
However, zoning may decrease the value of or slow development in previously existing locations as they navigate more regulations and have fewer permissions for change. It can sometimes contribute to redevelopment if the regulations are such that they raise construction prices and, by necessity, the resulting sale prices as well. Residents in areas with pre-existing zoning ordinances may be less inclined to push for change or new development in the area, and all individual property owners lose some rights for the community as a whole to be better served by zoning. Finally, development costs can increase by complicating processes and mandating structure types in different areas.
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We have a proven track record of excellent right-of-way, land rights knowledge, and experience in meeting ever-changing industry standards and requirements. To learn more, contact us today!