Real estate developers in the Miami area may have big plans for an unimproved parcel. Perhaps they want to construct single-family homes in a new residential development. Maybe they want to construct a shopping center or an industrial complex for a manufacturing company on what used to be agricultural land.
Simply locating and acquiring land is not sufficient. The company hoping to develop unimproved land or redevelop existing spaces must also look into zoning. Zoning restrictions impact how owners and tenants can utilize specific properties. A company could not install an industrial facility on a parcel zone for residential development, for example.
When a property owner or prospective owner wants to change the zoning for a specific parcel, the process can be a lengthy one. Who has a say in zoning matters in the greater Miami area?
The Community Zoning Appeals Board
Local authorities play a key role in reviewing any zoning variance or modification. The board reviews applications, provides notice to the public and hosts meetings where discussions about the proposed changes occur. The Community Zoning Appeals Board may eventually vote on whether or not to approve a requested change to the zoning for a specific piece of property. Board approval is part of the variance process as well.
The local community
Those who live or own property near the site of a proposed zoning change may have an interest in the matter. What happens to other properties nearby can affect their enjoyment of their property or the value of the property in the long term. The Community Zoning Appeals Board generally notifies owners within a certain distance of the parcel with the proposed change of a hearing.
The public hearing process required during zoning adjustments gives members of the community an opportunity to ask questions and provide feedback about what the proposed use of a specific property might mean for them and others nearby. Their feedback and concerns could strongly influence the outcome of the proceedings.
The zoning adjustment process can be both very lengthy and expensive. As a result, the outcome can also be somewhat unpredictable. Businesses with the right support and planning have a better chance of prevailing when seeking to develop property in a manner that may require zoning changes or variances.