What Is Zoning?
The purpose of zoning is to promote health, safety, and welfare by regulating the development of land. In Jefferson Parish, zoning regulates what land or buildings can be used for, where on the land buildings or other structures can be placed, or how tall or big a building can be. It also regulates other elements of site development, such as performance standards, parking, and landscape and buffering. Zoning regulations are divided into zoning districts, so that use, bulk, yard and development regulations are tailored to the character of each particular zoning district. For the purposes of this project, we will be focusing exclusively on the industrial zoning districts.
Why is the Parish Updating Industrial Zoning?
The Parish’s current industrial zoning regulations are over 50 years old, and may not relate to the current built environment or the variety of industrial uses that have emerged over time, may not adequately contain standards that help facilitate compatibility with surrounding land uses, and/or may not allow for certain forms of development that are desired. An updated set of zoning districts, including uses and development standards, can address these issues and provide opportunities for Jefferson Parish to move toward the vision established in the Comprehensive Plan and other plans and policies.
Why Is Industrial Zoning Important?
Industrial facilities represent significant local and regional economic investments for Jefferson Parish. The intent of reviewing and revising the structure of industrial districts is to find ways to encourage the long-term viability of industrial investment within the Parish while minimizing adverse impacts upon adjacent land uses. Therefore, the objectives for a revised set of industrial districts speaks to the need to:
- Minimize adverse impacts of industrial development and access upon adjacent areas;
- Prevent the encroachment of uses that are incompatible with industrial uses into industrial areas;
- Protect existing public and private development-ready industrial sites;
- Allow for appropriate uses within some industrial zones that will provide the necessary range of support services; and
- Provide locations for industries of various sizes and operating characteristics.
How Long Will The Project Take?
The project is anticipated to conclude early Summer 2022.