New zoning map headed to Charles City Council for approval

By Travis Fischer, tkfischer@charlescitypress.com

The Charles City Planning and Zoning Commission is nearing the end of a major update to the city’s zoning map.

City Engineer John Fallis hosted an informational meeting on Thursday, Oct. 13, to answer questions about the new maps, which are the result of efforts that began back in April of 2020.

Last updated in 2005, the zoning map will soon reflect numerous changes that have been made over the years along with some consolidation of certain similar zones to make things simpler and more streamlined.

“We’re trying to make it more user friendly,” said Fallis.

The most notable addition to the new zoning map is the creation of two new “flex development” areas on the east and south sides of the city. These areas will allow for very light industrial use that can be established without conflicting with the neighboring residential districts, separating the residential district from the industrial district.

“It creates a buffer so industrial units can’t butt right up to residential areas,” said Fallis.

The map also adds a new “residential transitional office” district on the east side of Grand Avenue, which will allow the large houses there to be used purely for office use rather than requiring occupation.

Along with the new map, the Planning and Zoning Commission is also consolidating the city’s subdivision ordinance and zoning ordinance into a unified development ordinance, creating a singular resource for developers.

Currently, the plan is for the City Council to review the new map during its next meeting and schedule a public hearing to collect feedback from the public. The changes will need to be passed at three readings of the council to take effect.