Planning and Zoning
Overview
Land use and zoning policies adopted by the City Commissioners have been designed to protect, preserve and enhance the City's residential neighborhoods and to encourage higher density residential and mixed-use development in downtown Decatur and the City's other commercial areas.
Decatur has had some form of zoning restrictions since 1925. In 1988 a comprehensive land use and zoning plan was prepared by the Planning Commission and approved by the City Commissioners. This plan is designed to serve as a guide for future land use and zoning decisions. The comprehensive land use and zoning plan is reviewed and amended periodically to reflect changing conditions and community goals.
Decatur Zoning Ordinance
Decatur is divided into land use districts that establish in a general way how land in the City should be used and into zoning districts that regulate the amount and type of development that can occur on a specific property. These districts are described on the City's Comprehensive Land Use Plan and Zoning Maps. Decatur's Zoning Ordinance includes the development standards for the different zoning classifications.
How do I request a change to the Comprehensive Land Use Plan or the Zoning Map?
Requests for a change to the Comprehensive Land Use Plan and/or the Zoning Map must be considered at public hearings by the Planning Commission and approved by the City Commission. Contact the Planning, Zoning and Inspections Department for more information and to obtain an application. Applications are also available under the department's Applications and Forms link.
How do I request a variance from the zoning ordinance?
Variances allow minor exceptions to specific zoning requirements that regulate how a property may be developed. Requests for a variance from the zoning ordinance must be approved by the Zoning Board of Appeals. Contact the Planning, Zoning and Inspections Department for more information and to obtain an application. Applications are also available under the department's Applications and Forms link.
Master Plans
Click here to be connected to electronic copies of the City of Decatur's Master Plans
For more information on land use and zoning in Decatur, contact Amanda Thompson, Planning Director, at 404-370-4104.