Floating Zones

Floating zones are zoning districts that are described in a zoning ordinance but have not necessarily been included on the zoning map. The zone "floats" over the community until it is affixed to a particular area through an amendment to the zoning map. The floating zone regulations should clearly define under what circumstances the zone may be established by the local legislative body. Generally speaking, the establishment of the zone is based on whether the conditions of the floating zone have been met, not on whether the change to the zoning is reasonable.

Floating zones are particularly useful when a community wants to permit a specific use (such as a shopping center) without mapping its location in advance. A floating zone could be defined in the zoning ordinance so that it establishes the minimum size of a shopping center zone, the list of uses which may be included in the zone, and the need for access to a state highway.

Planned Unit Developments, which are also defined in this toolbox, are a special type of floating zone.