Zoning laws are special rules and regulations created to govern the areas where business establishments set up their operations, such as a Dallas commercial office space. The ultimate purpose of this system is to prevent new businesses from locating in areas where they could harm existing building infrastructures, including historical landmarks. These regulations are generally exercised by cities, municipalities, and counties.
When there is an existing ordinance, it must be honored and will be enforced. Although zoning laws and related ordinances are amended from time-to-time due to community needs, it is still essential to conform to these laws or risk being penalized.
Commercial Zoning Ordinances
These ordinances mandate that all building infrastructures erected in a particular area must conform to the regulations set up by the local government. The ordinances restrict building features such as height, building size, location (setback), and proximity to other areas (landscaped, paved, and parking spaces). Additionally, some commercial zoning laws regulate the products that may be offered for sale at that location.
Avoid Problems
Checking the regulations in each locality is essential to ensure that all business operations abide by these governing rules. So if thinking of acquiring a Dallas commercial office space, the following tips should be considered:
- Prior Tenant Usage – Sometimes previous occupants may have been non-compliant with existing ordinances or may have been granted a variance. When these occupants move out, new tenants are usually not allowed to use the building in the same way as the previous tenants.
- Variance From Previous Occupant – Variances are sometimes granted to certain business establishments to keep the landowner from experiencing a substantial hardship. If a variance is not warranted, an allegation of spot zoning may occur.
- Finalizing a Lease – Always evaluate the existing laws in the chosen business location prior to formally signing a contract. Make sure to integrate a mortgage contingency clause which will make the lease binding as soon as the zoning is approved.
- Parking Areas – There are certain cities that require business establishments to have parking places. In the event that a location has limited parking, a parking place plan can be formulated and submit for approval.
- Business Signs – Most localities regulate the size, design, and placement of signs. Tenants should be aware of any restrictions and whether a sign would be beneficial or necessary to the operation of the business.
Occupancy and Commercial Zoning Ordinances
If a commercial zoning ordinance is violated or inhibits the use of the area, the new occupant must initiate a plan of action to occupy the space. Petitions should then be filed with various planning boards. A conditional use permit and a variance should be requested, which grants an exception to the ordinance.
Cities and local governments establish zoning ordinances to control the use of land for commercial, residential, and industrial occupancy. This is to regulate growth and development within each area of responsibility. Sometimes ordinances are violated by businesses that have recently relocated into a new area. Any business that occupies a Dallas commercial office space should ensure compliance with the existing zoning laws in the new area to avoid violating any ordinances and subsequent fines!