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1. How is a property zoned?

If you can identify a street address or tax map and parcel number, the Planning Department can locate the property and provide the zoning designation. Staff can also show you how to identify the requirements for that zoning district in the Development Regulations. The Development Regulations include permitted uses, maximum structure height, minimum building setbacks, density, parking and other requirements.

2. What is a buildable lot?

A buildable lot is a parcel of land described on a subdivision plat or in a deed recorded in the Harford County Land Records office in accordance with the laws applicable at the time it was recorded. The buildable status of a residential lot or a parcel of land is also contingent upon compliance with:

• Zoning Regulations including building setback restrictions
• The Building Code and approval of a building permit
• Connection to water and sewer systems

Planning Department approval of a site development plan is required before obtaining a building permit.

3. What is a variance?

A variance is a modification to the requirements of the Development Regulations for the size or location of a structure or use. Maximum height of structures, setbacks from public streets or property lines and minimum lot size or width, may be considered for variances. Applications are available online or from the Planning Department at 705 E. Churchville Road.

4. What is a special exception?

A special exception is a permitted use in a zoning district based on compliance with performance standards in the Development Regulations, if approved by the Board of Appeals. These uses are not permitted as a matter of right, and require consideration at a public hearing to determine compliance with the Development Regulations and possible neighborhood impact. Applications are available online or from the Planning Department at 705 E. Churchville Road.

5. What is a special development?

A special development is a use permitted in a zoning district based upon specific conditions. This use may be approved by the Planning Commission upon showing that such a use in a specified location will comply with all conditions and standards specified in the Development Regulations. A public hearing is required before the Bel Air Planning Commission for all special development requests.

6. What is a home occupation?

A home occupation is the accessory use of a residential property by the occupant of that property for business purposes that are clearly incidental and secondary to the residential use. Home occupations that comply with the requirements of the Development Regulations are permitted uses in all residential districts. Potential home occupations include; artists, writers, dress makers, wood workers, mail order, telephone sales, typing and computer services, repair services and business or professional offices. Applications for home occupation permits are available online or from the Planning Department at 705 East Churchville Road.

7. What is a concept meeting?

Prior to submission of a plan for review of any commercial, industrial, institutional use or residential development in excess of 5,000 square feet, residential development of 25 units or more, an applicant must meet with the Town Concept Plan Review Committee. This group includes town, county, and state representatives, assembled to assist the applicant in identifying applicable Development Regulation requirements before a project is submitted to the respective reviewing agencies for approval.

8. When is a Use and Occupancy Certificate required?

Prior to occupying any structure where a building permit is required, the owner is responsible for submitting a request to assure that all zoning, building and fire code requirements are satisfied. Similarly, on commercial and industrial properties, the property owner is responsible for submitting an occupancy certificate request whenever tenants change to assure all zoning regulations are satisfied. Any substantial alteration of a tenant space also requires a Use and Occupancy Certificate prior to occupancy. Contact the Planning Department with any questions about certificate needs.

9. What is the process of subdividing land?

Any division of land including revision or removal of property lines must be done in accordance with the subdivision requirements stated in the town’s Development Regulations. The Development Regulations establishes the minimum lot sizes and other setback and height requirements for the district in which the property is located. Before submitting a subdivision plan, the property owner and/or developer must hire a Maryland registered engineer or land surveyor. The consultant surveys the property and prepares the proposed subdivision plans and other required plans or reports in accordance with the Town Development Regulations and policies. Information, applications, checklists and brochures are available online and from the Planning Department at 705 E. Churchville Road.

10. What is a final plat?

A final plat is a surveyed drawing for the division of property prepared by a Maryland registered surveyor/engineer. It is the official record of division of land showing lots, streets, property lines and other information. A final plat must be approved by the Planning Commission and recorded in the County Land Records office.

11. What is a site plan?

This is a development plan for one or more lots showing the existing and proposed conditions of the lot. A Site Plan is necessary when a use is proposed that is a change from the existing use. The plan should include topography, vegetation, drainage, floodplains, wetlands, and waterways; landscaping and open spaces, walkways; means of access; circulation, utilities, structures, signs, lighting, buffers, screening, surrounding development, and other information that reasonably may be required for an informed decision to be made by an approving authority.