There are two folds of function that fall under this planning category. The first is working with the Planning Commission on maintaining and updating the City's long-range plan. The department is responsible for conducting research on the most prevalent issues challenging the municipal planning practice. This research effort turns into data analysis and, subsequently, recommendations made to the Planning Commission and City Council with regards to the modification of the Long-range plan or the Zoning Ordinance. The second aspect of the planning function is the day-to-day issuance of zoning certificates to all projects to ensure the intent of the Zoning Ordinance is met. The department is also responsible for making recommendations to the Planning Commission and City Council for the zoning designation on newly annexed areas. We work closely together with the Engineering Department and Department of Parks and Recreation in developing the Thoroughfare Plan and Park Master Plan to incorporate them into the City long-range plan. Below is a brief summary of services the department provides:
Zoning Certificate Issuance The Zoning Administrator maintains, and updates the City's Zoning Ordinance, including proposing amendments to the zoning ordinance. Copies of the Zoning Ordinance and Zoning Maps are available for purchase through the Zoning Administrator.
Prior to the beginning of work pertaining to the erection, construction, reconstruction, moving of a building, structure or the erection of a sign or the use of a building, obtaining a zoning certificate, from the Zoning Administrator, is required by the owner or his/her agent. For the Zoning Certificate fee, check the Permit Fee Schedules.
How Do I secure a Zoning Certificate? First, contact the Zoning Administrator, (513) 425-7947, to find out what the requirements are for the project that you are to build. Second, bring three (3) copies of the site plan drawn to scale showing the actual shape and dimension of the lot to be built upon or to be changed in its use, in whole or in part. Any lot or property drawings should be based on an actual survey of the lot or property. Third, the Zoning Administrator reviews your application and determines if it meets the Middletown Zoning Ordinance. Sometimes, more information may be required for you to receive approval.
Do I need approval from any other government agencies? In some cases, Yes.