How to Use this Ordinance

If you want to build or establish a particular use on your property:

Step One: You should first determine how your use is categorized. Go to the Use Categories in Section 5.2, and find the use category or specific use that most closely describes what you want to establish.

Step Two: You should next determine the zoning district (and any overlay districts) that apply to your property. Zoning information is available at the Growth Management Business Center and the Development Services Business Center and shows the zoning district for every parcel of land in unincorporated Sarasota County.

Step Three: Go to the Use Table in Article 5. Find the row that lists the use category or specific use you’ve identified. Match this row to your district (across the top of the table) to determine if the use you want to establish is permitted.

Step Four: If your use is permitted, before building the structure or establishing the use, you must get the appropriate permits approved (see Article 3) and comply with any applicable use standards (Article 4) and the various development standards of these zoning regulations (see Articles 6 and 7).

These requirements are intended to help you and the County ensure that your project is legally established and that it matches the development vision that Sarasota County, as a community, desires. You should also review the County’s Land Development Regulations (Chapter 74 of the Sarasota County Code) for other applicable development information.

If you own or lease property and want to know what rules apply:

Follow Steps Two through Four above, to identify your zoning district and the permitted uses. You can find the specific details for the uses permitted in your zoning district in Sections 5.2 and 10.2.  You can also find the various development standards that apply to your property in Article 6 and Article 7.

If you want to change your zoning district or apply for a special exception:

Contact the Growth Management Business Center. Rezoning and special exception petitions must be processed in accordance with Sections 3.1.