How can I find out if a physical location I am interested in has the right zoning for my type of business?

November 7, 2023

To find zoning information for a property in Washington State, you can follow these steps:

Visit the Local Government Website:

Start by visiting the website of the local government where the property is located. Zoning regulations are typically managed at the city or county level in Washington. You can use a search engine to find the official website of the city or county where the property is located.

Look for an Online Zoning Map:

Many local governments in Washington provide online zoning maps or GIS (Geographic Information System) tools that allow you to search for zoning information by entering the property address or parcel number. These maps will display the zoning designations for different areas within the city or county.

Contact the Planning Department:

If you can't find the information online or need further assistance, contact the local planning or zoning department. They can provide you with the zoning information for the property and answer any questions you may have. Look for the contact information on the local government's website.

Check the Municipal Code:

Most local governments have their zoning regulations documented in their municipal code. You can often find zoning codes, definitions, and land use regulations on the city or county's website. Look for a section related to zoning or land use.

Visit the Local Government Offices:

If you're unable to access the information online or through phone contact, you may need to visit the local government offices in person. The planning or zoning department should be able to provide you with the zoning information you need.

Consult a Real Estate Professional:

Consider working with a real estate agent or attorney who specializes in commercial real estate or zoning matters. They can help you navigate the process, interpret zoning codes, and provide guidance on whether the property is suitable for your business.

Attend Local Zoning Meetings:

Some cities or counties hold public meetings or hearings related to zoning changes or variances. Attending these meetings can provide you with insights into the local zoning regulations and any upcoming changes that might affect your property.

It's important to thoroughly understand the zoning regulations for your desired property, as they can impact the type of business you can operate, building modifications, and other factors. Additionally, zoning regulations may vary from one locality to another, so it's crucial to research the specific requirements for the property's location.

If you are scouting a location in Thurston County for your business you can use the Thurston County GeoData website to find out details on zoning and other restrictions for a specific property at https://www.thurstoncountywa.gov/departments/geodata-center

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