Frequently Asked Questions

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1.00 - General Questions

• 1.01) What is the function of the Zoning Office?

  The Zoning Office has one primary function, as its name implies: assuring compliance with zoning regulations.

• 1.02) Do you have a survey of my property?

  No. Documents required for the submission of a building permit application are provided by the applicant.

• 1.03) What kinds of maps are available to the public?

  Zoning, Future Land Use, some major development plans from their respective site plans, and other specialized maps.

• 1.04) Do you disseminate information to the public?

  Yes, we disseminate zoning district regulations, codes, ordinances, and various land management applications. If the information sought is not available through the Zoning Office, our staff will endeavor to direct you to the proper department.

• 1.05) Do you use maps?

  The Zoning Office uses zoning maps, tax parcel maps, aerial maps, plat book maps, the computer GIS computer system and other computer-based systems as they become available, and the Future Land Use Map to identify and locate property, as well as to determine zoning district and land use designations.

• 1.06) Where can I obtain applications?

  There are three ways: 1. by visit to the Planning Office; on the internet, 2. www.osceola.org > search box type in the name of the application name, 3. www.org > click Departments & Agencies > click Planning Office in the Site Directory.

2.00 - District Uses and Approval Process Questions

• 2.01) Why do we have zoning?

  Zoning helps protect land owners from the impacts of incompatible land uses on adjacent properties. Communities can also use zoning to provide transition between dissimilar land uses such as commercial, industrial, and residential. This helps provide direction for future development and the extension of public services that must accompany that growth.

• 2.02) How do I determine my zoning district?

  First, you will need the parcel ID number for your property. This is located at the top of your tax bill and begins with an "R". If you do not have your tax bill, call the Property Appraiser’s Office and have them look it up. Next, call the Zoning Office at (407) 742-0200.

• 2.03) What uses are allowed in my district?

  If you have a question regarding a specific use for your property, call the Zoning Office. To determine all the allowed uses in your district, you will need a copy of the appropriate section of the Osceola County Zoning Regulations. This will also provide you with the minimum development standards (setbacks, minimum lot width, etc.) that must be observed. You can obtain a copy by visiting the department.

• 2.04) What is a Conditional Use and will I need one?

  Most zoning districts have both "permitted" and "conditional" uses. Permitted uses are those that are allowed without further approvals by the County, Building Permits not withstanding A review of the Zoning District description mentioned above will be helpful to you in making that determination. Conditional uses are site specific and may or may not be appropriate for a particular location. These require Conditional Use approval from the County and may be applied for through the Planning Office (407) 742-0200. The application form, time schedules, fees, exhibit checklists, etc... are also available from the Application section of Zoning Office website. This application is subject to two public hearing processes, one before the Planning Commission; the other before the Board of County Commissioners.

• 2.05) What is a Pre-Development Meeting and how might it save me time and money?

  A Pre-Development Meeting is a very informal opportunity for you to outline your planned use and to show a preliminary concept drawing of any proposed land development. Staff representatives from Engineering, Planning, Zoning, and the Fire Marshal will be present at this meeting to advise you of any technical concerns that might alter your plan. It may be your desire to meet with group more than once before you submit a formal application for a Conditional Use approval. There presently is no fee charged for a Pre-Development meeting, and such meetings could save you money in the preparation of unacceptable plans and idea descriptions, not to mention the saving of time wasted while the formal submission is delayed for technical revisions. (Remeber, once the application is submitted it is locked in to a time clock for scheduled hearings. If all of the required technical data is not provided, further action will be postponed to a future pre-scheduled hearing date and a processing fee may be charged.

• 2.06) How do I change my zoning district?

  First you should discuss with the Planning Office the feasability of a zone change to a zoning district that will achieve your desire. They will assist you in determining conformity with the Countys future land use designation and compliance with other zoning districts within the neighborhood. They will also be able to assist you in determining whether any environmental issues might affect a zoning district change. If the results of this research are positive, the applications for a Zoning Map Amendment ZMA are handled the Planning Office (407) 742-0200.

• 2.07) What do I need to apply?

  The Planning Office can supply you with a checklist of items that will assist you in the application process. You will need to furnish the propertys tax ID number or its complete legal description, a copy of the last recorded deed, written authorization of the property owner for you to pursue the zone change, and the applicable fee. The Planning Office can advise you of the fee, which is dependent on the zone requested. Their phone number is (407) 742-0200.

• 2.08) Must I be present at the public hearings?

  Your presence at the hearings is not required, but highly recommended. It is your responsibility to represent the application at these hearings and answer any questions that may arise.

• 2.09) Further Questions?

  Please direct your questions to one of the following numbers:

  Growth Management

  (407) 742-0200

  Fire Marshal

  (407) 742-7000

3.00 - Land Development Code Questions

• 3.01) Where can I find descriptions of the various zoning districts?

  Within the Land Development Code.

  The Land Development Code was published to comply with the Osceola County Comprehensive Planning and Land Development Regulation Act, as required by Chapter 163 of the Florida Statutes and Rule 9J-24, Florida Administrative Code. The primary purpose of the Land Development Code is to compile all land development regulations into a single code. This compilation includes a description of all zoning districts, as well as expanded overlays for Manufactured Home, Mobile Home and Recreational Vehicle Parks, for Short-term Rentals, and for Conditional Use and Site Standards (C.U.S.S.). Chapter 14, of the Land Development Code encompasses all of these things.

  Chapter 14 of the Land Development Code may be found by clicking here.

  There are seventeen chapters in the Land Development Code, and it may be located in its entirety by following the links provided here. Click here to read more.

• 3.02) Where can I find a description of the Countys parking ordinance?

  Youll find this information in Chapter 7 of the Land Development Code.

  Because parking is, in actuality, a zoning compliance issue, the Zoning Division is the logical source for any question you might have about parking. You are invited to consult with the Zoning Division, (407) 742-0200, for clarification or direction in your interpretation of Chapter 7.

• 3.03) Where can I find a description of the Countys outdoor advertising ordinance?

  You can find this information in Chapter 15 of the Land Development Code.

  Because outdoor advertising is, in actuality, a zoning compliance issue, the Zoning Division is the logical source for any question you might have about signs outdoor advertising. You are invited to consult with the Zoning Division, (407) 742-0200, for clarification or direction in your interpretation of Chapter 15.

  There are certain Planned Development projects scattered throughout Osceola County that have secured a special outdoor advertising package just for those project. These packages were obtained via approval of a Comprehensive Development Plan by the Board of County Commissioners. Therefore, they became the law ordinance for that particular project. Rarely, are they identical to each other, rather, they are designed for their own uniqueness.

  Signage is recognized as one of the most important visual aspects of Planned Developments. Signs may be appropriately designed, landscaped and integrated with the overall engineering theme and architectural style of the project to enhance its demeanor. Even though Planned Developments may receive approval for their own signage package, no sign may exceed limitations set forth by Chapter 15 of the Land Development Code.

4.00 - Zoning and Permit Questions

• 4.01) What is my zoning and why is it important?

  A zoning district for a property is determined by knowing its tax parcel ID number or its legal description. Our staff will assist you in answering these questions upon request. For all properties, please call (407) 742-0200. Zoning determines what uses are available on your property and its development standards and helps to stabilize the value of your property by making it compatible with other like-kind properties in your community.

• 4.02) What is a zoning variance?

  Zoning variances are hardships that prevent complying with the development standards established by ordinance for your property. They are hardships that were not self-imposed by the property owner and are limited dimensions and structural setbacks. Variances are considered by the Board of Adjustment through a public hearing. Please call (407) 742-0200 for assistance and for the application form. The application is also available from the Applications section of Zonings website.

• 4.03) Can I subdivide my property?

  The zoning district designation, land use classification, and proposed configuration all play important parts in determining whether your property can be legally subdivided. The answer to this question probably will require your consultation with a licensed civil engineer or your choice.

• 4.04) What is the future land use or zoning on my property?

  Contact the Planning Office (407) 742-0200 and furnish to them the parcel tax identifcation number and/or physical street address. Their staff will research and advise you.

• 4.05) Can I change my zoning district and/or future land use classification?

  Possibly. We recommend that you discuss this matter with staff in the Planning Office (407) 742-0200 to learn more about why the existing designations exist and their compatibility with surrounding properties. If evaluation is made that supports the changes, the next would be to formally apply to the County for such changes.

• 4.06) What do I need a permit for?

  Permits are required for new construction and additions to residential and commercial properties, permanent and temporary signs, cold-air balloons, tents, and some special events or public activities. For questions please call (407) 742-0200.

• 4.07) Are permits for construction required in Osceola County?

  Permits are required for the construction of single or multi-family dwellings, commerical buildings, and accessory structures, signs, tents, liquor licenses, removal of trees, construction in wetlands, and other structural or signage improvements. It is suggested that you call Zoning (407) 742-0200 before you begin any structural or signage improvements to determine the need for a permit.

• 4.08) What types of animal may I keep on my property?

  It depends on the zoning district your property is in. Different zoning districts have different allowances as to animal-type and number of animals. Please call the Zoning Office (407) 742-0200 and speak with a technician.