Zoning 101:
Understanding Its Role in Land Use In Oklahoma City.
For many, land is not just acreage or a property line-it is a lifestyle. You may have dreams of homesteading with a sizable garden and livestock, or you may be ready to build your dream home in the peace and quiet tucked away amongst the trees. Whatever dream or way of life, understanding the zoning regulations of your area can help you better understand the permissions you have on your property and, subsequently, the type of life you want to maintain and embrace while living there.
This blog will explore the basics of Oklahoma City zoning regulations and provide a better framework for its relevance when purchasing land or property.
Zoning 101: The Basics
To better understand zoning and its role in land use, let's start by building a framework of basic definitions.
What is Zoning?
Zoning encompasses regulations dictating land use and development criteria for properties within a city aimed at safeguarding community health, safety, and welfare. These rules typically integrate into a broader strategic framework devised by the city's planning department, segmented into various zoning districts.
What Are Zoning Districts?
Each zoning district establishes distinct criteria for land development, encompassing allowable uses, lot dimensions, population densities, building setbacks, greenery, parking requirements, barriers, and various other rules.
Use Unit Classification
A collection of interconnected uses characterized by similar functions, products, or performances, forming a basis for their organized allocation to particular zoning districts. This allocation is guided by criteria directly pertinent to ensuring Oklahoma City's residents' public health, safety, and we
What zoning districts might affect me?
We would be remiss if we didn't say all zoning districts might apply to you for one reason or another. However, we have compiled a condensed list of what classifications might be helpful to you in your search for land in and around Oklahoma City. This list focuses on agricultural zoning classifications sourced from the AA Agricultural Zoning District document on Oklahoma City's government website. But first, let's review what The Agricultural Zoning District is.
What is the Agricultural Zoning District?
According to Oklahoma City's zoning code regulations, the Agricultural District, or AA District in Oklahoma City," creates and preserves areas intended primarily for agricultural purposes. It permits low-intensity residential development along with specific essential commercial and institutional uses. It is not intended to provide a lower development standard than in other districts. The types of uses, area, and intensity of use regulations are designed to encourage and protect agricultural uses on a permanent basis, or until such time as urbanization takes place and an appropriate change in district classification is made". (Oklahoma City Municipal Code, Chapter 59, 2020).
So, what kind of areas are these districts persevering?
From animal raising to having a greenhouse on your property, here is a list of Zoning Unit Classifications that you might find helpful! To read more about each classification’s function, visit the Use Unit Classifications Document on Oklahoma City’s Goverment Website.
8150.2 Agricultural Processing: Limited
8150.3 Animal Raising: Commercial
8150.5 Animal Raising: Personal
8300.9 Animal Sales and Services: Horse Stables
8300.11 Animal Sales and Services: Kennel and Veterinary, Restricted
8250.3 Community Recreation: Property Owners Association
8150.6.2 Composting
8300.40 Family Day Care Homes
8150.6.3 Greenhouse
8150.6.4 Home Garden
8150.6.5 Hoop House
8250.12 Light Public Protection and Utility: General
8250.13 Light Public Protection and Utility: Restricted
8250.14 Low Impact Institutional: Neighborhood-Related
8200.5 Low Impact Institutional: Residential-Oriented
8200.7 Manufactured (Mobile) Home Residential
8150.8 Row and Field Crops
8200.14 Single-Family Residential
In conclusion, navigating the complexities of zoning regulations in Oklahoma City is crucial as you prepare to purchase land or develop property according to your lifestyle needs and aspirations. By understanding the specific zoning districts and use unit classifications, you can make informed decisions that align with your dreams and goals for your property and life, all while ensuring compliance with local laws and contributing to the overall welfare of the community. Whether you're planning to cultivate a vast garden, raise animals, or simply enjoy a quiet life among nature, understanding zoning is the first step toward making your dream a reality.