Zoning Ordinance Interpretation (ZOI)

Zoning Ordinance Interpretation (ZOI) is a new process to provide formal written interpretations of any provision of the Zoning Ordinance. Interpretations may be of either the ordinance text, zone boundary, compliance with conditions of approval, whether or not an unlisted use is comparable to a listed use (i.e., should it be allowed or prohibited in a zone), or other provisions of the Zoning Ordinance. ZOIs may be initiated by any person having a contractual interest in land in the County. 

Pre-Application Conference:  Optional

Pre-Application Neighborhood Meeting:  Not Applicable 

Subdivision and Development Review Committee (SDRC): Not Applicable

Decision-Making Body:  Planning Director

Fees: $480

Public Notice Requirement: Public notice is not required for Zoning Ordinance Interpretations. However, for appeals of ZOIs, mailings are required to be sent to parties of record, adjoining property owners, and municipalities seven (7) days prior to the appeal hearing. 

Past Formal Zoning Interpretations: The Planning Department maintains copies of all written interpretations, which will be available on the website.

Estimated Review Time: 1-3 months

Application Instructions

The new Zoning Ordinance and Subdivision Regulations go into effect on April 1, 2022. Any application accepted prior to the effective date of the new Ordinance will be reviewed and decided in accordance with the provisions of the prior Ordinance. See the Transitional Provisions Quick Reference for more information. 

Fill out this application form and email the PDF along with the required submission materials to PreApp-DRD@ppd.mncppc.org.