Zoning Codes are established to protect adjacent property owners from adverse and incompatible uses, and from encroachments of structures on adjacent properties. Properties within the City are divided into Zoning Districts as shown on the Zoning Map.
The Zoning Code regulations prohibit or soften harsh uses when adjacent to lesser intense uses. In residential districts they prohibit incompatible uses within the district such as unlicensed and inoperable vehicles, limits on home occupations such as no car repair shops, beauty and barber shops, lawnmower repair or retail shops. All of these detract from the residential character of the neighborhood. More information on how the Zoning Codes affect residential properties.
The other main aspects of Zoning Code regulations are physical location and size constraints for improvements on a zoning lot. These include setbacks from property lines, maximum land coverage, maximum height, etc. These restrictions benefit neighboring properties by assuring light, ventilation, views and sense of well-being by requiring minimum distances from the property lines and prohibiting over-development of the lot.
In non-residential districts they establish allowable principal, accessory and temporary uses within the district. They set parameters such as setbacks, intensity of use, parking, signs and greenspace.