Zoning Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I contact zoning officials with the City of Cedar Rapids?
   
2. How do I find out the zoning of my property?
   
3. What are my building setbacks and yard requirements?
   
4. Do I need a permit for a fence?
   
5. Do I need a permit for a shed or "temporary" structure?
   
6. Can I file an appeal from the decision of the Zoning Administrator or request a variance to Zoning Ordinance requirements?
   
7. What is the definition of an "inoperable" vehicle?
   
8. Can I operate a business from my residence?
   
   

1. How do I contact zoning officials with the City of Cedar Rapids?
   
   You can obtain zoning information by contacting the Zoning Section of the Building/Zoning department, (319) 286-5836, or by visiting the department offices on the second floor of the Public Works Complex, 1201 Sixth Street SW; Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52404.
   
   
2. How do I find out the zoning of my property?
   
   You can find out how your property is zoned by calling the Zoning Section of the Building/Zoning department or by visiting the department offices.
   
   
3. What are my building setbacks and yard requirements?
   
   A building setback is the required distance that a building (structure) must be located from the property lines. Typically, setbacks and yard requirements are determined by your zoning classification; therefore, you would need to verify the zoning of your property.
   
   
4. Do I need a permit for a fence?
   
   Yes, a building permit is required for a fence and there are height restrictions. Generally, these restrict the height of a fence in residential zones to six (6) feet on the sides and the rear. If the fence will be in any part of the front yard, you should contact the Zoning section of the Building/Zoning department for details on allowable heights.
   
   
5. Do I need a permit for a shed or "temporary" structure?
   
   Yes, a building permit is required to assure that the structure is located far enough from property lines.
   
   
6. Can I file an appeal from the decision of the Zoning Administrator or request a variance to Zoning Ordinance requirements?
   
   Yes. Any decision or determination made by the Zoning Administrator may be appealed to the Board of Adjustment when it is alleged that there was an error made by the Administrator. In addition, the Board may vary some of the regulations of the Ordinance when complying with the Ordinance would create an unnecessary hardship. An application for an appeal or variance request may be obtained at the Building/Zoning department offices. Applications must be completed and include the required filing fee before the application will be accepted.
   
   
7. What is the definition of an "inoperable" vehicle?
   
   The Zoning Ordinance defines an inoperable vehicle as any motor vehicle, recreational vehicle, boat, trailer or semi-trailer that lacks a current registration and/or a part that renders the vehicle unfit for legal use. Inoperable vehicles must be stored in a completely enclosed building.
   
   
8. Can I operate a business from my residence?
   
   Yes, under certain limitations. View the regulations and download an application.