The “Ordinances” or local laws enacted to control the use of a property in a given location. Many people I talk to about zoning are offended that the governing body (towns in this case) set a boundary on private citizens and impede their use and enjoyment. My answer is if the zoning predates your purchase than you assumed the current standards and should know (or had the right to find out)what these limitations are on the property in that part of town.

Most zoning regulations were enacted to protect the public and by extension protect your property value as well. Some examples of this public interest being served is no adult book stores near a school, no gas stations in a federal flood zone or no go-cart tracks (or noise related activity) in a residential neighborhood, Ect/Ect.

The affect and control of general design criteria and development can come in some of the following ways (1)permitted use/commercial, residential, industrial or agricultural (2) Lot size or density? how many condos per acre,square footage of lot for a single family home (3) Type of Structure/Multi-family, trailer park, retail space Ect.(4) building height (5) Set back restrictions (from road, neighbor,sidewalk ect) (6) Style and appearance/ Towns can require a landscaping plan, minimum pitch roof,lighting plan,or sign ordinance (and many more) (7) Protection of natural resources/ no salt in a water shed or wetland area,no tree cutting to close to a stream or no billboards on a designated scenic highway.

I have worked through the development process for many clients and would be happy to help with any projects your are considering in New Hampshire.

Steve Loynd