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Zoning laws and codes are an essential part of the real estate world. They divide land into specific sections that are compatible with certain uses. Ever wonder how an elementary school ends up next to a Gentlemen’s Club? You can thank zoning for that! But what about raw land? How do zoning laws and regulations impact undeveloped land? Let’s dive into Ironclad Group’s Understanding Zoning Laws: Raw Land Edition:

Most Common Zoning Categories:

• Residential – Properties designated for home dwellings like single-family homes, multi-family units, apartments, condos, etc.
• Commercial – Business properties such as office buildings, hotels, shopping centers, etc.
• Agriculture – Land used for farming, including crops and animal farming.
• Industrial – Land designated for manufacturing, warehouses, and storage purposes.
• Rural – Areas often used for farming and ranches, which may include livestock like horses and cattle. These areas are often combined with residential zoning.

Want to dive deeper into zoning? Check out Zoning for Beginners: 6 Easy Basics for a quick overview!

Things to Consider First

When evaluating raw land, it’s essential to consider the zoning classification. If your dream property is zoned for Agriculture, building a home may not be allowed. Similarly, if the land you’re eyeing is Residential zoned but your vision is to run a business, that property may not be ideal. Always check the zoning details and fine print before purchasing.

Once you’ve selected a property with the right zoning for your plans, there are other factors to consider, such as utilities and possible restrictions.

Essential Utilities

On developed land, utilities and amenities are usually already in place, but undeveloped land can be trickier. If the land is zoned for Rural, it may not have access to basic utilities like water, electricity, or sewage systems. This doesn’t mean you can’t have those services—it just means you’ll need to get creative. You may have to dig a well, install a septic system, or even consider solar panels. These steps come with additional costs, so make sure to factor them into your planning before buying.

Environmental Regulations

Environmental issues can also be a concern depending on the zoning of your land. For example, if part of your property is a protected wetland, building in that area may not be allowed. Or, if the land was once zoned for Industrial use and there were hazardous chemicals on-site, you might need an Environmental Assessment before proceeding. Understanding zoning and local regulations before purchasing can save you a lot of time, money, and stress down the road.

How to Learn More About Your Land’s Zoning Laws

Your real estate agent or attorney can provide zoning information, or if you choose to purchase property from Ironclad Group, we’ll provide all the zoning details ahead of time. However, if you’re the DIY type and want to do your own research, visit your city or county’s website and locate the Local Planning Department. That’s where you’ll find the zoning ordinances. If that doesn’t work, check your State and Local Government website for more info.

Changing Your Land’s Zoning

Can you change your land’s zoning? The answer is yes… and no. While it is technically possible to change zoning on a property, it’s a complex and time-consuming process. You’ll need to survey your land, research local rules, get approval from neighboring landowners, and submit a rezoning application. The entire process can take a lot of time, patience, and money. However, cities and areas evolve, so rezoning is sometimes necessary to accommodate growth and development. If you’re willing to put in the effort, rezoning is possible—just be prepared for a long road ahead!

Final Thoughts

Buying raw land is still one of the most rewarding investments, but it’s essential to do your homework before taking the plunge. Ensure that the property you’re eyeing aligns with your vision and is legally viable. Once you’ve checked off all the important details, you’ll be ready to make the investment!

Did we mention Ironclad Group offers raw land for sale? We’ll even provide you with all the zoning details upfront—so you know exactly what you’re getting into! Happy investing!