Planning & Zoning

Planning & Zoning Division

The City Planning and Zoning Division oversees current and long-range planning functions. This includes site plan applications, specific use permits, variances; and zoning, re-zoning, and comprehensive plan amendments. The Division coordinates with various public reviewing agencies such as Engineering, Public Works, Building, Fire, Utilities, and Health Department. Through this review process, the Planning and Zoning Division endeavors to support predictable land use planning patterns and aesthetically pleasing development, while achieving and maintaining the desired level of service expected by the patrons of the City.

Comprehensive Zoning

The City of Stafford adopted a Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance in 1997 to regulate the use of land within the Stafford city limit. The Ordinance classifies uses of land into zones. Uses in established zones are required to follow allowances with regards to height, area, architecture, landscaping, and signage among other categories. Zoning sets out to establish minimum standards for the use of the land and promotes the health, safety, and general welfare of the city and its residents.

View the Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance (PDF)

Zoning Map


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Pre Development Meeting

Prior to the initiation of a new development application, it is recommended that potential applicants, architects, developers, and/or contractors schedule a pre-development meeting. The pre-development meeting is an informal meeting in which the applicant and review staff discuss issues related to the project concept. The purpose of this meeting should be to communicate to the reviewing staff, the decision-makers, and the public what is proposed and how the proposal meets or complies with the City's Ordinances and Comprehensive Plan. View the Pre Development Meeting request form (PDF).

To schedule a pre-development meeting, email Chris Riggs.

Zoning Verification Letters

When a Zoning Verification Letter is requested on a property, planning and zoning staff will perform a search of City records in order to provide specific information to the applicant, such as the current/past zoning, applicable zoning district regulations pursuant to the decisions of governing bodies, and/or the presence or absence of any open code violations, complaints, and existing non-conformities. Please click here to apply through MGO Connect.