Zoning Ordinance

Purpose of Zoning

Zoning protects the rights of property owners while promoting the general welfare of the community. By dividing land into categories according to use, and setting regulations for these categories, a zoning ordinance - Please note that the version of the Zoning Ordinance found in MuniCode is not the most recent version of this document - can govern private land use and segregate incompatible uses. The purpose of zoning is to locate particular land uses where they are most appropriate, considering public utilities, road access, and the established development pattern. In addition to categorizing land by uses such as residential, commercial, and industrial, a zoning ordinance also specifies such details as building setback lines, the height and bulk of buildings, the size and location of open spaces, and the intensity to which the land may be developed. Zoning does not specify minimum construction standards; these are set forth in separate building codes.

The Need for Rezoning

When a property owner wants to use land in a way that is not permitted by the zoning of his or her property, the owner must request to rezone the property to a classification which permits the desired use. A rezoning is a legislative action which is considered through a complex process.

Rezoning Request:

Applications for rezoning may be submitted at the City of Leeds Department of Inspection Services located at 1404 9th St, Leeds, AL 35094 - Please call or email for an appointment as applications can not be accepted on a walk-in basis- by completing the rezoning application form and submitting the required documents.

The attached brochure outlines the rezoning process: How to Rezone Property