Prince George’s County Zoning and Land Use Regulations
We are building our second home in gorgeous Prince George’s. To prepare yourself for this journey and to level set your own expectations, you should become familiar with some of the County’s Zoning and Land Use guidelines. This will play a crucial role in determining how you can utilize your property and construct your dream home. In this article, we will explore the zoning laws and land use regulations in Prince George's County, focusing on setback requirements, lot size restrictions, and easements. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of these regulations, you'll be better equipped to navigate the process of custom home building in the county.
Zoning Laws: The Foundation of Land Use Regulations
Zoning laws are local regulations that divide an area into different zones or districts, each with its own set of permitted land uses and development standards. Prince George's County has established zoning laws to ensure orderly growth, protect property values, and maintain a harmonious balance between residential, commercial, and industrial areas. Understanding the zoning regulations applicable to your property is crucial before embarking on any construction project.
1. Setback Requirements:
Setback requirements dictate the minimum distance that a building must be set back from property lines, roads, or other structures. These regulations are in place to ensure adequate space between buildings, maintain visual aesthetics, and provide safety measures such as fire access and emergency evacuation. Prince George's County has specific setback requirements based on the zoning district of your property. It is important to consult the county's zoning ordinance or reach out to the Planning and Zoning Department to determine the setback requirements applicable to your specific project. You want to pay full attention to this because this will determine how much of your lot of land you can actually build on. For example, if you are now wanting a huge front yard, due to the setback requirements that may be inevitable.
2. Lot Size Restrictions:
Lot size restrictions define the minimum area and width required for a lot to be eligible for development. These restrictions vary based on the zoning district and are aimed at preserving the character and density of the neighborhood. It is crucial to verify the minimum lot size requirements for your zoning district before purchasing or planning to build on a particular property. Failure to comply with lot size restrictions can result in limitations on building size or even denial of construction permits.
3. Easements:
Easements are legal rights granted to individuals or entities to access or use a portion of another person's property for specific purposes. Common types of easements include utility easements, which allow utility companies to access and maintain their infrastructure, and right-of-way easements for public roads or pathways. It is important to identify any existing easements on your property before commencing construction, as they may impact the design and layout of your custom home.
Understanding and navigating zoning and land use regulations in Prince George's County can be a challenging endeavor. To ensure compliance and a seamless process, it is highly recommended to seek the assistance of professionals well-versed in local regulations. Architects, builders, and land use attorneys can provide valuable expertise in interpreting zoning laws, assessing setback requirements, lot size restrictions, and easements, and ensuring adherence to all necessary regulations. Additionally, obtaining the required permits from the county's Department of Permitting, Inspection and Enforcement is crucial prior to commencing any construction activities.
