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Planning and Zoning

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1. Are there restrictions on my land?

In some cases, there may be two areas of regulation that need to be considered. First, many residential subdivisions have deed restrictions that set out specific “do’s” and “don’ts” within a certain neighborhood. Deed restrictions are not enforced by the City; however, they are enforceable by private means through the courts. Deed restrictions are generally filed with the County under the subdivision name. Second, most every parcel of land within the City of Wichita Falls will fall under one of 14 primary zones. Examples of zoning districts are: Single-Family Residential, Limited Commercial, General Commercial, and specialized zones such as the River Development District. Each zone has a list of permitted uses and uses that are allowed by the approval of the Planning and Zoning Commission. Each zone also establishes the developmental requirements such as building setbacks and height limitations. If a certain use is desired, but not permitted within a certain zone, a request for rezoning may be an option under certain conditions. Inquiries about land use and zoning can be made to the Planning Division.

2. Can I operate a business from my home?

The City of Wichita Falls Zoning Ordinance does permit a home based business under certain guidelines. Beauty salons and other home occupations are permitted as long as the residential character of the home and neighborhood is maintained. This means no employees other than the person(s) that reside within the home. Signs specifically advertising the home occupation and direct sales of merchandise are also prohibited. Take an “out of sight out of mind” approach when operating as a home occupation. Contact the Planning Division for a complete list of guidelines.

3. Can I build a carport in the front of my house?

Carports to be built within the front 25 foot setback, or within the 15 foot exterior side setback on corner lots, require a conditional use permit from the Planning and Zoning Commission. As part of this process notification letters are sent to owners of neighboring properties within 200 feet of the applicant’s property. The Commission will look at neighborhood responses when making a decision to approve or deny a particular request for a carport. It is a good idea to also check for possible deed restrictions. Some subdivisions may prohibit them. Contact the Planning Division for application and fee information.

4. Do I need a permit to place an advertising sign on a commercial lot?

Most signs, like buildings, are considered to be structures and do require a permit and an inspection from the Building Inspections Division. There are exceptions to permitting requirements for some smaller signs such as real estate signs (see the Sign Ordinance for details). Sign placement on a particular lot depends on the size of the sign and the number of existing signs on the lot. Contact the Planning Division or the Building Inspections Division for more information on sign placement and permitting.