Talking With An Official
This is by far the best way to work through the zoning process!
These people are amazing!
Generally, most people are scared to talk to officials, and while there are some that are not going to be nice, or even want to listen to what you have to say, for the most part, they are amazing individuals. Most of them want to help you, even if at the end of the day they can’t.
Their job is not to just tell you no. They have a set of rules that they must follow and they have to guide you around those rules. So, discussing different types of land and land use with them directly will get you the answers that you need the fastest.
Start by sending an e-mail and requesting a meeting.
Have notes of what questions you specifically want to ask.
Have some parcels of land in mind that they may directly reference.
Be ready to ask questions and figure out why they may tell you no.
When they tell you no, ask them why, determining the reason behind it will help you understand why they are giving that answer.
If you get a no, ask if there is a different type of land, or alternative you haven’t thought of where this may work instead of the one you offered.
Discuss current laws or new advancements in areas where this might be a viable option.
Discuss variances and or adoptions of ordinances to make this possible in the area.
Discuss how other cities and towns are making it happen and what would need to be done to have those changes made in your area (Especially if they are counties that are right next door!)
Find out what the steps are to make it happen. It might not be as hard as you think especially if they are interested in tiny houses.
Attend city meetings and encourage others in your area to speak out on allowing tiny homes as well.
Join groups that are already doing this. Share your meetings and plan to go out together after for dinner or something to discuss the information from the meetings.
Keep asking WHY!
Be sure to really get down to why it is not being allowed if that is the case, then when you understand what the block is, you and the zoning official can work to see if there is a way around that issue.
Trailblazing Tiny Tales is series of individual eBooks that addresses issues directly related to living, building, creating, and parking a Tiny House On Wheels. Each book will cover one subject and carry short stories, personal experiences, funny tales and helpful advice.
Written by Mrs. Melanie Ann Copeland
Melanie is a tiny house diy builder and advocate for tiny living. She is the National Spokesperson for the Tiny House Alliance USA. She carries degrees in English and Business. Now settled on thier own land Melanie and her husband of 20+ years John, are enjoying living the tiny life, traveling, and living free