Zoning & Land Development

Zoning

Zoning is a tool used to regulate the use of land in Kenosha County in a manner that serves to promote the general welfare of its citizens, the quality of the environment and the conservation of its resources. Zoning also implements a land use plan. Zoning in and of itself is the delineation of areas or zones into specific districts which provides uniform regulations and requirements that govern the use, placement, spacing, and size of land and buildings. The Kenosha County Department of Planning and Development, Division of County Development administers the zoning maps and the zoning ordinance for the unincorporated areas of Kenosha County, including the Towns of Brighton, Paris, Randall, Somers and Wheatland.

The zoning districts are delineated on maps that have been adopted by the Kenosha County Board of Supervisors and the towns that partner in zoning and are available for viewing at the Interactive Mapping page and are also available at your local town hall and the department of Planning & Development.

Regulations

The regulations and requirements for zoning districts and land use are encompassed within an ordinance of which in Kenosha County is called the Kenosha County General Zoning and Shoreland/Floodplain Zoning Ordinance. This ordinance is also Chapter 12 of the Municipal Code of Kenosha County. This can be viewed under the Ordinance page or you can purchase a copy in a 3-ring binder at the Kenosha County Department of Planning and Development, Division of County Development.

Permitting

Permitting is the documented mechanism that is used to verify that a structure or use meets the regulations and requirements of the zoning district of which it will be located and the use that is permitted by the zoning ordinance. A zoning permit also protects you as assurance is being given that your structure or use is in compliance with the ordinance. You can view the permit procedures and permit forms online or at the Kenosha County Department of Planning and Development, Division of County Development.