Zoning Guidelines

Where do I file for a Rezone, Conditional Use, Variance or Appeal?

Zoning Department

37 North Walnut Street, Statesboro, GA 30459 (912) 489-1356

 

What information is required to file for a Rezone, Conditional Use, Variance, or Appeal?

  1. A completed Application Form.
    1. Signed by the property owner.
    2. Signed by the agent (if applicable).
  2. Notarized.
  3. Map and Parcel # (found on tax notice).
  4. Recorded copy of the warranty deed.
  5. Recorded copy of the plat (scaled drawing showing all improvements).
  6. Filing fee (see County Fee Schedule).

What are the public notification procedures?

  1. Upon receipt of the application and filing fee, Zoning Department staff will place a sign on the property no less than 15 days prior to the public hearing.
  2. Zoning staff will place a legal ad in the newspaper advertising the request at least 15 days prior to the public hearing.
  3. Zoning staff will notify applicant (and adjacent property owners as required in the Zoning Ordinance) concerning the request. The notification will include the dates the request will be heard at the public hearing(s).

What happens at the public hearing?*

  1. Zoning staff present a brief report that will: explain the request, describe adjacent land uses, and give the zoning classification of the requested property and surrounding property.
  2. The applicant and others who sign up in support of the request are permitted time to present their comments.
  3. Citizens who sign up in opposition to the request are permitted time to present their comments.
  4. Planning and Zoning or Board of Commissioners may ask for additional information before voting on the request.

* Either the applicant or the agent must be present at the Planning and Zoning meeting and the Board of Commissioner meeting to present the request and answer questions.

 

Will I be notified of the decision?

Zoning Department staff will notify the applicant concerning the decision.

 

What is an appeal?

  1. Process by which an individual can contest a Zoning Administrator or Building Official decision.
  2. Appeals are heard by the Planning and Zoning Commission.
  3. All construction activity must stop during an appeal, unless the Building Official determines that stopping construction or other activity authorized by the appealed action will cause imminent peril to life or property. In such cases, the construction or other activity authorized by the appealed action is allowed to continue unless the construction is halted by the Planning and Zoning Commission or a restraining order is granted by a court of competent jurisdiction.
  4. Planning and Zoning Commission decision may be appealed to the Board of Commissioners.