Zoning code laws and regulations affect everyone who owns property. These laws are put into place to determine things like the location, size, design, and use of a building or property. In many cases, zoning codes impose unfair limitations or restrictions on property and landowners. However, only an experienced zoning code lawyer can make sure that your grievances are heard and your hardships are adequately compensated with a variance, rezoning, or some other means. Many people do not think about land use law in their day-to-day activities, but a land use attorney can provide critical benefits during key times in your life. These services are especially beneficial to small business owners when they want to invest in a new property or adjust their operations. Other times, you may be facing legal challenges where comprehensive knowledge of land use law is the only way to defend your rights. Finding a good lawyer to handle your land use and zoning code issues can be challenging. There are several options available to you, but it is important to select experienced lawyers who have an in-depth understanding of zoning and land use issues. One way in which you can attempt to find the best lawyer to handle your zoning code issues is by getting referrals from other people. There are many websites and portals online that offer a listing of lawyers by area and specialty. You can also refer to a law firm’s website to read about previous cases and experience and to get to know an attorney’s approach to handling different issues. Below are some examples of how hiring a land use planning and zoning attorney will help you.
When you want to start a new business or modify operations. Business owners require representation from a land use lawyer more often than anyone else. A business will engage in many activities, all of which have consequences in terms of the use of property where those activities take place. All of these activities must be legal uses of the property and in compliance with local laws. A land use lawyer can check to see if your business activities can stay clear of such restrictions. If they will likely not, then a land use lawyer can help your business seek a permit or a variance to enable them. Many times, an attorney with knowledge of land use will come to a compromise with local regulators.
You will also want to hire a land use planning and zoning attorney during property transfers or renovations. Someone may wish to install a pool, add on an in-law suite, run a business out of their house, or begin renting out rooms within their property. All of these activities could run outside the norms of residential land use and require approval from local officials, or at least confirmation as to their legality. A zoning lawyer can clear up the more complex of these questions while smoothing the permitting process.
To sum up, there are several different situations where an individual or business owner might need to hire an attorney for zoning and land use-related issues. By hiring an experienced land use planning attorney, you will enjoy the above benefits.
