Planning and Zoning

Escambia County, Florida, offers a detailed and structured approach to planning and zoning, ensuring the responsible development of land while maintaining the integrity of the community. This article will explore the functions of the county’s Planning and Zoning Department, offering insights into zoning regulations, land use policies, rezoning processes, and other essential services. If you're planning any development or land-use change in Escambia County, understanding these processes is crucial.

Understanding the Role of Planning and Zoning in Escambia County

Planning and zoning are vital tools for organizing land use, ensuring that properties are developed in ways that are compatible with their surroundings. In Escambia County, the Planning and Zoning Division plays a central role in guiding development, protecting environmental resources, and maintaining a balance between urban growth and community needs.

The county’s Planning and Zoning Division is tasked with overseeing the development and management of land use plans, zoning regulations, and infrastructure planning. This department works closely with various stakeholders, including developers, property owners, and local government officials, to ensure that growth aligns with the county's goals outlined in its Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code.

Zoning Regulations in Escambia County

Zoning is the process through which Escambia County regulates how land can be used in different areas of the county. These regulations ensure that the community’s development is both structured and sustainable. Zoning helps control the type of activities that can occur on a property, the size and height of buildings, and how properties can be developed.

Types of Zoning Districts in Escambia County

Escambia County has a range of zoning districts, each designed to suit specific land uses. These districts are established through the county's Land Development Code (LDC), which sets forth rules for development based on the land’s intended use.

Residential Zoning: Areas designated for housing, including single-family homes, multi-family residences, and townhouses.

Commercial Zoning: Zones that accommodate businesses, retail stores, offices, and other commercial establishments.

Industrial Zoning: Areas meant for manufacturing, warehousing, and other industrial operations.

Agricultural Zoning: Properties intended for farming, livestock, and other agricultural activities.

Special Purpose Zoning: Specific zones for parks, schools, and other public uses.

Each zoning district has specific restrictions regarding building heights, setbacks, density, and other factors affecting land use.

Zoning and Land Use Verifications

Before embarking on any new construction or land use change, it is essential to understand the zoning regulations applicable to your property. The Escambia County Planning and Zoning Division provides zoning and land use verifications to confirm how a parcel of land is zoned and whether the proposed use complies with the regulations.

To request this information, property owners must provide their property reference number, which can be obtained from the Escambia County Property Appraiser’s office. This reference number is crucial for accurate mapping and determining zoning status. Zoning information can also be accessed through the county's Zoning GIS Map.

Rezoning: Changing the Zoning of a Property

Rezoning is the process of changing the zoning designation of a property to allow for a different type of land use than what is currently permitted. This process is essential when a property owner wishes to develop land in a manner that doesn't conform to its existing zoning.

How to Apply for Rezoning

The rezoning application process begins with a meeting between the property owner and Escambia County’s Development Services staff. It is important to consult with the staff to understand the zoning requirements and ensure that the proposed change aligns with the county’s land use policies.

Once the consultation is complete, applicants can submit a rezoning application packet, which includes relevant forms and fees. This application will be reviewed by the Planning Board in a public meeting. The Planning Board will then make a recommendation, which is forwarded to the Escambia County Board of County Commissioners (BCC). The BCC will adopt, modify, or reject the recommendation based on its alignment with the Comprehensive Plan and the county's zoning regulations.

For more detailed information on the rezoning process, you can visit the Rezoning Page.

Planning Board Involvement in Rezoning

The Planning Board plays a significant role in the rezoning process. The board evaluates all rezoning applications, conducts public hearings, and provides recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners. The board meets monthly, typically on the first Tuesday, to review rezoning requests.

Applicants are encouraged to review the Planning Board Calendar for meeting dates and submission deadlines.

Land Development Code (LDC) and Its Impact on Development

Escambia County’s Land Development Code is a critical document for anyone involved in development within the county. The LDC outlines the regulations for how land can be used and developed. It covers a variety of issues, including:

Building and construction standards: Including setbacks, lot sizes, and building heights.

Signage and parking regulations: Outlining the permissible size, placement, and types of signs.

Environmental considerations: Addressing issues such as stormwater management and habitat protection.

Permitted land uses: Determining which activities are allowed in each zoning district.

The LDC is updated regularly to ensure that it aligns with current planning goals and community needs.

The Comprehensive Plan: Guiding the Future of Escambia County

The Escambia County Comprehensive Plan is another essential document that guides land use and development. This long-term planning tool helps shape the county’s future by addressing growth patterns, transportation infrastructure, housing needs, and environmental protection.

The Comprehensive Plan is divided into several elements, including:

Housing Element: Focuses on the provision of affordable housing and residential development.

Transportation Element: Outlines transportation goals, including road improvements and public transit.

Conservation Element: Aims to protect natural resources and promote sustainable development practices.

The plan also includes a system for measuring the effectiveness of these goals and making adjustments when necessary.

Development Monitoring: Tracking Growth in Escambia County

Escambia County tracks the progress of development through its Development Monitoring system. This tool provides real-time data on ongoing projects, including:

Dwelling units: Tracks the availability of housing and the number of residential units under construction.

Lodging units: Monitors the development of hotels and other lodging facilities.

Development agreements: Keeps a record of large-scale projects and agreements between developers and the county.

By monitoring these developments, the county ensures that growth is managed efficiently and aligns with planning objectives.

How to Contact Escambia County’s Planning and Zoning Division

Escambia County residents and developers can contact the Planning and Zoning Division for questions or to start a rezoning application process. Below is the contact information:

Planning and Zoning Division
Phone: (850) 595-3475
Email: landuse@myescambia.com
Address: 3363 West Park Place, Pensacola, FL 32505

Development Review Committee
Phone: (850) 595-3472 (DRC Coordinator)
Email: developmentreview@myescambia.com
Address: 3363 West Park Place, Pensacola, FL 32505

Planning Board
Phone: (850) 595-3475
Email: planningboard@myescambia.com
Address: 3363 West Park Place, Pensacola, FL 32505

Board of Adjustment
Phone: (850) 595-3475
Email: boa@myescambia.com
Address: 3363 West Park Place, Pensacola, FL 32505

Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Phone: (850) 595-3458
Email: gis@myescambia.com
Address: 3363 West Park Place, Pensacola, FL 32505

By contacting these offices, residents and developers can ensure they are following the correct procedures for land use and zoning, as well as obtaining the necessary approvals for their projects.

Escambia County Planning and Zoning FAQs

How Can I Verify Zoning Information for My Property in Escambia County?

To obtain accurate zoning and land use information for a property, you will need the property reference number, which can be found on your property tax bill or receipt. This number is crucial for locating your parcel on Escambia County’s Zoning GIS Map. Once you have it, you can contact the Planning and Zoning Division via email at zoninginfo@myescambia.com or call them for verification. Alternatively, you can also use the county's Zoning GIS Map to check the zoning status and future land use designations of your property.

What is the Rezoning Process in Escambia County?

Rezoning in Escambia County is necessary if you wish to change the land use for a property to a different zoning category than what is currently designated. To start, it is recommended to meet with the Development Services staff to discuss your parcel. Afterward, submit a completed rezoning application, pay the required fees, and have your application reviewed by the Planning Board. If approved, the Board of County Commissioners will review and make a final decision. Detailed steps can be found on the Rezoning page.

How Do I Apply for a Variance or Conditional Use in Escambia County?

If you need a variance or conditional use for your property, you must submit an application to the Board of Adjustment. The application must be reviewed through a quasi-judicial public hearing where the Board will decide whether to approve or deny the request based on the Land Development Code (LDC). Application forms and additional information can be found in the Board of Adjustment section.

What is the Role of the Planning Board in Escambia County?

The Planning Board in Escambia County holds public hearings on various zoning matters, including rezoning and amendments to the Comprehensive Plan or the Land Development Code. The Board is tasked with ensuring land development regulations align with the county’s goals and state statutes. More about their function and meeting schedules can be accessed on the Planning Board page.