Wasilla launches online zoning maps to aid community planning and property use

The Planning Commission of Wasilla convened on February 11, 2025, to discuss the newly available online zoning maps and their implications for the community. The meeting highlighted the accessibility of zoning information for residents and real estate professionals, emphasizing the importance of transparency in local governance.

The session began with a presentation on the city’s zoning maps, which were previously unavailable online. The speaker demonstrated how constituents can access these maps through the City of Wasilla website by navigating to the planning department and selecting the zoning districts map. This tool allows users to enter specific addresses, such as 777 North Kruesi, to view zoning classifications and related information.

The zoning maps are based on Google technology, providing a user-friendly interface for residents to understand the zoning designations in their neighborhoods. The speaker explained that each zoning area is color-coded, with commercial zones marked in pink, residential in yellow, and other classifications clearly delineated. This visual representation aids in identifying the types of uses permitted in each zone, including the need for various permits.

A significant feature discussed was the use chart, which outlines the types of developments allowed in each zoning district. For instance, while hotels may be permitted in commercial zones, other uses, such as cemeteries or multi-family units, may require special use permits. The process for obtaining these permits includes notifying neighbors within a 1,200-foot radius, ensuring community involvement in planning decisions.

The meeting also introduced a second method for accessing zoning information through the Matanuska-Susitna Borough's website. The borough's parcel viewer and property lookup tools provide additional layers of detail, utilizing an ArcGIS-based addressing system. This integration enhances the ability of residents to research property-specific information, further promoting informed community engagement.

In conclusion, the Planning Commission's meeting underscored the city's commitment to improving access to zoning information, fostering transparency, and encouraging community participation in local planning processes. The availability of these online tools is expected to benefit residents and real estate professionals alike, facilitating better understanding and navigation of Wasilla's zoning regulations.