Staff to draft zoning tables, use matrix to simplify rules for applicants

Stark County planning staff told the commission Oct. 2 that they are drafting two guidance tools for the public: (1) a development-standards table listing minimum lot sizes, setbacks and maximum heights for each zoning district, and (2) a use matrix showing which uses are permitted or require a conditional-use permit in each zoning district.

Steve Josephson said the materials are intended as unadopted guidance to reduce applicant confusion and the need to "thumb through the zoning code." He said the draft tables will be shared with commissioners ahead of the next meeting and that the city’s planning ordinance includes a similar matrix.

Commissioners welcomed the guidance and staff said drafts will be provided at the next meeting, possibly by email in advance. The tools are intended to help applicants prepare complete applications and reduce staff counseling time; staff emphasized the materials would be guidance documents and not formal code changes.