Rezoning - What is it?

Property owners sometimes want to use their property in a way that is not allowed as a special, planned, or permitted use under its current zoning but is permitted in a different zoning district. For example, if a property is zoned as single family residential and the property owners want to convert the house into an office, the owner must first request that the property be rezoned. Planned Uses also require rezoning.  Examples of Planned Uses could include: taverns and other businesses selling alcohol; gas stations; night clubs or dance halls; dry cleaners; churches; car washes; convenience stores, recreation establishments; car dealerships; and multi-family apartments.

Before applying for a zoning map amendment (rezoning), please contact Planning & Zoning Division staff members at 618-625-4500 x4 to schedule a pre-application meeting. As a part of the rezoning process, the owner must notify neighboring property owners within 250 feet and present their case during a public hearing before the Planning Commission explaining how the original zoning was in error or how the conditions have changed to such an extent to warrant a rezoning. Planning & Zoning staff members will provide an on-site review for the impact to neighboring land uses, safety issues and compatibility to the Comprehensive Plan and prepare a report for the Planning Commission. The Planning Commission then develops a recommendation that is forwarded to the City Council. The final decision on the rezoning will be voted on by the City Council.