How to Best Rezone Your Property

Consider making an appointment with the municipality’s planning department to gather information first. Savicic/Shutterstock

Dear Monty: I own a parcel of land that I now want to develop. Friends have told me that it would be a good site for apartments. I believe that if I get the property rezoned before selling it, it will command a higher price. I have no experience in rezoning property. What is the best way to go about it?

Monty’s Answer: Zoning aims to promote and control orderly development. Several factors may help determine the direction you take. The location of the land has a bearing on the best way to proceed. Another factor is the size of the parcel. The larger the property, the more potential uses and zoning options. Another factor may be your resources in terms of time, capital and persistence.

Zoning Policy Varies

States and cities with large populations and layers of bureaucracy may require years to accomplish a rezoning. In some areas, a municipality will not grant rezoning applications unless a project requires rezoning. They take that position as developers sometimes make promises but change the plan and build a different project.