ZONING

Zoning ordinances focus on regulating the use of property, such as residential and agricultural. The planning process includes the division of land into zones or districts and drafting of regulations to control the acceptable uses within each district or zone. In addition to controlling the activity occurring upon properties, zoning traditionally establishes standards for building sizes, setbacks from property lines, and lot sizes within each zone. For more information, contact Brian at District III.

COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING (COMP PLAN)

A comprehensive plan provides the framework for the orderly development of a city or county. The purpose and process of preparing a comp plan are outlined in state law. Chapter 11-2 deals with counties and 11-4 pertains to municipalities. Zoning controls are based upon the information presented in the comp plan. This information typically includes the present economic and social conditions, as well as future land use objectives. Comp plans normally take several months to prepare and they should be updated at least every ten years. For more information, contact Greg at District III.

TRANSPORTATION PLANNING

The construction and maintenance of road and highway systems are primary local government responsibilities. Transportation planning involves an analysis of physical conditions (surface type etc.), road function, and fiscal policies. One outcome of transportation planning is a more systematic approach to establishing road improvement policies. For more information, contact Greg at District III.

SUBDIVISION ORDINANCES

Subdivision ordinances apply to the physical layout and division of property. They also address public facilities and environmental protection. The ordinances usually complement zoning regulations, which address the use of property. Subdivision ordinances should be based upon the objectives of a comprehensive plan. For more information, contact Greg at District III.

DISASTER & EMERGENCY RESPONSE PLANNING

The federal government is encouraging cities and counties to prepare disaster planning documents. District III has produced two basic types of disaster plans:

1. Local Emergency Operations Plan (LEOP)

The LEOP is a guide for county emergency responders if a disaster or hazard event occurs.

2. Pre-Disaster Mitigation Plan (PDM)

The PDM is also used to prepare cities and counties for disasters and hazard events, but it is also specifically geared to prevent or mitigate these events from occurring. For more information, contact John at District III.