Land Use, Zoning and Planning Lawyers in Columbia, South Carolina
Columbia, South Carolina has laws which govern how individual parcels of land can be used, and how they cannot. These rules aren't always simple, and this article should serve as an introduction to some of the most common issues that homeowners might face, though it is not meant to turn a layperson into an expert.
"Zoning" is the process by which a local government makes laws determining how individual pieces of land within its jurisdiction can be used. Usually, towns or cities are segmented off into "zones," each one being designated for a specific type of use. Examples of common zoning categories are single family residence, commercial, multi-unit housing, or industrial.
There are many different reasons that cities might engage in zoning - but it is usually designed around making cities more livable, by preventing conflicting uses from clashing with one another. After all, few people would want to live in a house next to a vacant lot, if there is a chance that somebody could decide to build a pig farm next door. The security provided by zoning laws helps preserve property values
Zoning also serves the interests of industry, as well as residents. By ensuring that there are places where heavy industry can take place, well-planned zoning regulations will ensure that industrialists are free to practice their trade, and that residents will not be disturbed by those activities, which makes industry more efficient by helping it avoid costly nuisance lawsuits.
What if My Property Violates Columbia, South Carolina's Zoning Laws?
Suppose you find that some condition on your land is in violation of Columbia, South Carolina's zoning laws. In cases like this, you have quite a few options.
First, and perhaps most obviously, you can correct the violation. If the violation is relatively minor, and correcting it would not cost you much or be a significant burden, this might be the best way to go.
Sometimes, however, a landowner wants to make improvements on their property which might constitute a slight violation of Columbia, South Carolina's zoning laws. In this case, the owner can apply for a variance - an official agreement from the local government to not enforce a particular zoning regulation. Generally, variances are granted when the violation is very minor, and, enforcing the letter of the zoning law would not do much to advance its broader purpose.
Further, if you have been living on your property for a long time, and made improvements on it that complied with the zoning laws in effect at the time, a new zoning law that would be violated by your current use of your property, the new law cannot be enforced against you. The U.S. Constitution bars the passage of "ex post facto," or retroactive, laws. Once the laws take effect, however, you'll have to comply with the new zoning laws with respect to any new improvements you want to make on your property.
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How Can a Columbia, South Carolina Attorney Help?
If you are in the process of physically altering your property, you are almost certain to face some issues having to do with local zoning laws. If you find that zoning laws are making it very difficult to use your property as you see fit, you may have legal recourse, usually in the form of a variance. Of course, your chances of success in any zoning dispute will be immeasurably increased if you have the help of a qualified Columbia, South Carolina attorney.
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Life in Columbia
Columbia, South Carolina is the state capital, and the largest city in the state. It has a population of about 130,000 people.
Columbia has a rich history, and has figured prominently in important historical events dating back to before the Civil War. While being occupied by Union troops during the Civil War, much of Columbia was destroyed in a fire. During Reconstruction, as in many Southern states, numerous African Americans were elected to public office in South Carolina, which was a novelty to most Americans at the time. As a result, Columbia experienced a brief tourism boom, as visitors wanted to observe the state legislature in session.
Modernly, Columbia, South Carolina is quite diverse in both demographics, and economy. Columbia is a major center for several industries, such as healthcare, manufacturing, insurance, and many others.
Columbia, South Carolina is also home to Fort Jackson, the U.S. Army's largest training facility, which has a major economic impact on the area. Each year, the federal government spends over $700 million for salaries, utilities, and other services (with a significant amount going to local contractors). Furthermore, each year, over 100,000 people visit the area to attend basic training graduation, and patronize the local hotels, restaurants, and retail outlets.
Columbia, South Carolina lawyers need to be competent to handle many different types of cases. If you contact a Columbia, South Carolina lawyer with any type of case, chances are they can take it, or refer it to another local attorney who can.
