What is Zoning?

Zoning can regulate the use of land; size, height, bulk, erection, removal and use of structures; areas and dimensions of lots, yards, open spaces & separation distances between structures; density of population and intensity of use; and protection of natural resources and agricultural land.

The purpose of zoning is to:

1. To promote health, safety, morals and general welfare;
2. To promote coordinated, orderly, harmonious and practical community development;
3. To discourage the intermixture of incompatible land uses and, where such intermixture may be beneficial or where zoning district boundaries present transitions between incompatible uses, to control impacts of incompatible uses;
4. To lessen congestion and promote public safety and convenience on roads and highways;
5. To secure safety from fire, disaster, panic, pollution hazards and other dangers;
6. To provide adequate light and air;
7. To prevent the overcrowding of land;
8. To avoid undue congestion of population;
9. To facilitate the adequate provision of housing, commercial and industrial development, transportation, water, sewer, schools, parks and other public requirements;
10. To establish reasonable standards to which buildings and development shall conform;
11. To protect and enhance the value of land.

Below is a list of municipalities in Mercer County that have locally adopted Zoning ordinances.  Presently, 30 out of 48 (63%) municipalities in Mercer County have zoning.