PLEASE NOTE THAT THE ZONING REVIEW ROOM WILL BE CLOSED FROM
9–10:30 AM ON THE SECOND TUESDAY OF EACH MONTH FOR STAFF TRAINING.The Zoning Code regulates the type of activity that may occur within specific geographic areas of the city. By extension, zoning laws determine the placement of structures on a given site. While there are subcategories, land uses can be grouped under 3 general categories: residential, commercial and industrial.
More detailed information on zoning code and districts can be found online at
City of Columbus Zoning Code.
Zoning Staff performs zoning clearance reviews and coordinates the rezoning and zoning variance processes.
The Zoning Section consists of the following 3 units:
Code Development
Responsible for researching, maintaining and updating the
City of Columbus Zoning Code as well as handling various special projects and research requests.
Zoning Clearance
Responsible for ensuring that all development and redevelopment is in compliance with the zoning code. A certificate of zoning clearance is required prior to the construction or alteration of any building or structure as well as a change, modification or establishment of a use.
Public Hearing
Coordinates the public processes established by the zoning code that enable property owners and developers to modify or change the zoning of a tract of land.There are 4 types of public hearing processes related to zoning.
Please see the Development Guide for details
* Rezoning (pgs. 15-17)
* Council Variance (pgs. 18-19)
* Board of Zoning Adjustment (pgs. 20-22)
* Graphics Commission (pgs. 20-22)
Related Zoning Links:
* Zoning Code Update
* Zoning Frequently Used Terms and Frequently Asked Questions
* Zoning Confirmation Letters ("rebuild letters" cannot be issued)
* City Council's Zoning Committee
* Planning Division Library of Adopted Area Plans
* Driveways and Parking Pads
Related Zoning Publications and Forms:
* Zoning Training PowerPoint
* Zoning forms and applications
Zoning Terms & FAQ
Here you will find a list of frequently used Zoning terms and associated definitions as well as frequently asked questions.
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Zoning Confirmation Letters
A zoning confirmation letter is not a rebuild letter. The City of Columbus cannot issue rebuild letters as these are a matter of legal interpretation of city code for consideration by private counsel.
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Driveway and Parking Pad Information
Driveway and Parking Pad Information
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