Primary Categories
Spot Rezoning
A zoning change applied to a specific property or small group of parcels. Spot rezonings are typically initiated by property owners or developers seeking to change what can be built on their land. Examples:- Changing a single-family residential lot to allow multifamily development
- Converting a commercial parcel to mixed-use
- Rezoning an industrial site for residential development
Area Rezoning
A zoning change applied to a larger geographic area, often initiated by the municipality as part of a comprehensive planning effort. Examples:- Rezoning an entire corridor for transit-oriented development
- Upzoning a neighborhood to allow higher density
- Creating a new overlay district for a downtown area
Zoning Code Modification
Changes to the zoning regulations themselves, rather than the zoning designation of specific properties. These modify what’s allowed within existing zones. Examples:- Adjusting height limits in commercial zones
- Adding accessory dwelling units (ADUs) as a permitted use
- Modifying parking requirements citywide
Special Use Permit
Permission to conduct a specific activity that isn’t automatically allowed in a zone but may be approved with conditions. Also called conditional use permits in some jurisdictions. Examples:- Operating a restaurant with outdoor seating in a residential area
- Building a cell tower in a commercial zone
- Running a daycare facility in a mixed-use building
Subcategories
Decisions may also include subcategories that provide additional context:| Subcategory | Description |
|---|---|
| Inclusionary Zoning | Requirements or incentives for affordable housing units |
| Conditional Use | Approval contingent on meeting specific conditions |
| Planned Unit Development (PUD) | Flexible zoning for master-planned projects |
| Variance | Exception to specific zoning requirements |
| Historic Overlay | Special regulations for historic preservation |
Filtering by Category
When searching for decisions, you can filter by category to focus on the types most relevant to your needs:- Development tracking: Focus on Spot Rezoning and Special Use Permits
- Market analysis: Include Area Rezoning and Zoning Code Modifications
- Comprehensive monitoring: Include all categories
Category names may vary slightly by jurisdiction. Shovels normalizes these into consistent categories while preserving the original terminology in the decision details.