|
PLANNING AND ZONING FAQS
Questions:
·
How do I determine the zoning district classification of my
property?
Call the Planning Department and provide as much of the
following information as possible:
ü
Address
ü
Legal description of the property-
Lot, Block and Subdivision or Survey name and tract number
ü
Size of the lot or tract
ü
Name of previous owner if purchased in
the last year
·
What type of sign may I place on my property?
Generally speaking, the sign must be on the same lot as the
establishment for which it advertises.
·
Where on my property may an allowed sign be located?
An allowed sign may be placed anywhere on private property
provided it does not extend into any public right-of-way,
inhibit the use of an easement or impair the visibility of a
vehicle driver at street or driveway intersections. There is
no height or size limitation unless the property is in a
“Planned Unit Development”, “Office” “Adaptive Reuse Office”
or “Restrictive Professional Office” zoning district
classification. Restrictions may also apply if the property
is part of a shopping center that is four acres in size or
greater.
·
Do I need a license to operate a business in Lufkin?
The City of Lufkin does not license businesses, however,
peddlers and vendors are required to obtain a permit from
the City Secretary.
·
May I operate a business out of my home, and do I need any
type of permit?
Certain types of businesses may be operated outside of a
home. Please refer to the Zoning Ordinance for details
concerning types of “Customary Home Occupations” that are
allowed and their limitations.
·
Must I place my house, accessory building or fence a certain
distance from my property line?
Yes, the Zoning Ordinance requires varying setbacks from all
property lines based on several factors that include:
ü
The zoning district classification of
your property;
ü
The zoning district classification of
the property (ies) next to yours;
ü
The zoning district classification (s)
ü
The type of structure (house,
accessory building or fence) proposed;
ü
The location of your lot in relation
to abutting streets;
ü
Please contact the planning department
for specific information regarding your situation if you
have questions.
·
Does the city regulate “Garage or Yard Sales”?
If the sale is located on residential zoned property, the
tenants may offer their personal belongings and household
effects for sale to the general public provided such sales
are not conducted on the same lot for more than three days
(whether consecutive or not) during any 90 day period.
·
How long does it take to complete a zoning district
classification change or approval of a special use permit,
and do I get a refund if my request is not approved?
There are two application deadlines scheduled each month. It
is the goal of the Planning Department to complete the
process within 45 to 60 days of the application deadline.
State laws require mailed notification of these cases to
property owners within 200 feet and also notice in the news
paper in advance of public hearings by the Planning and
Zoning Commission and City Council which are also required
by state law.
·
Is there a fee for changing the zoning district
classification or a special use permit, and do I get a
refund if my request is not approved?
There is a $150 application fee for both zoning district
classification changes and special use permits.
Unfortunately, there are no refunds. The application fees
are designed only to recover a portion of the costs of
required notifications.
|
