Dalton Zoning Attorney

Find the right Zoning Planning & Land Use attorney in Dalton, GA

Zoning Planning & Land Use Law in Georgia

The laws governing how land can and cannot be used in Dalton, Georgia are fairly confusing, and can be confusing to laypersons. This should provide a basic overview.

Localities normally divide their jurisdictions into segments, referred to as "zones," on which particular types of use are permitted. For example, one area of a town might be zoned for residential use, a nearby one for commercial use, and areas on the outskirts zoned for industrial use. This practice is called "zoning."

There are several different reasons that cities might engage in zoning - but it is typically 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 retain property values

On the other hand, zoning laws recognize and attempt to accommodate the necessity of factories and other industrial activities. They simply seek to ensure that such activities are performed in a way that they don't conflict with the rights of adjacent landowners to use and enjoy their property in peace.

Possible Outcomes of Boundary and Title Disputes in Dalton, Georgia

If a condition on your property violates the local zoning laws of Dalton, Georgia, there are a few different solutions.

It should be obvious that the first option you should consider is to correct the violation. If doing this wouldn't cost you very much, or pose a huge inconvenience, you should obviously do this.

Of course, simply fixing a zoning violation isn't always inexpensive or easy, and may interfere with your planned use of your property. For example, you might have just undertaken a substantial remodeling of your home, and later found out that some small part of it technically doesn't conform to Dalton, Georgia's zoning laws. If this happens to you, you can apply to your local zoning board for what's known as a "variance." This is simply a decree by the zoning board that the particular rule your property violates no longer applies. The Supreme Court has held that local zoning boards have to grant variances when the violation is quite minor, and enforcing the ordinance would be unduly burdensome and not in the public interest.

You also have substantial protections if a zoning law changes, and you find that the land you've been living on for years is suddenly in violation of the new law. In general, zoning laws cannot apply to structures and uses which were built or commenced before the law was changed. Under the U.S. Constitution, it's not permissible for state or local governments to pass laws which have retroactive effect. You should know, however, that any future changes you make to your property will have to comply with the new zoning law.

What Can A Dalton, Georgia Attorney Do?

If you find yourself facing zoning or other land use issues, it's crucial to have good legal advice. A knowledgeable Dalton, Georgia attorney will help you work within the law to ensure that you are as free as possible to make the use of your land that you want.

Talk to a Real Estate Law Attorney now!

Life in Dalton

Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge mountains, Dalton, Georgia is a self-proclaimed great place to live, work, and play. Home to roughly 33,000 residents Dalton has major Southern charm.

Known as the carpet capital of the world, Dalton is home to many of the nation's top carpet companies. Home to over 150 carpet factories, more than 90% of the world's carpet is produced in Dalton! Dalton also had many civil war relics and other historical sites, making it a great place for history buffs to visit and Dalton residents to admire and ejoy. In fact, Dalton was recently recognized as having more intact Civil Way artifacts than any other city in the country.

Fast forwarding from the civil war, Dalton is also home to many talented lawyers. Dalton lawyers specialize in a range of legal issues and are available to help serve their clients in any capacity they may find themselves dealing with. If you find yourself in Dalton, and in need of a top-notch attorney, then look no further. Dalton,Georgia is a great place for carpet, history lessons, and great attorneys.

Clients Rate LegalMatch Attorneys
(click to read reviews)

Nicholas M.
Nicholas M.

Real Estate, Housing & Property Law

Golden, CO

Carl M.
Carl M.

Real Estate, Housing & Property Law

Seattle, WA

David A.
David A.

Real Estate, Housing & Property Law

Walnut Creek, CA