TopLogoBackground
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Zoning
The County Board adopted zoning regulations in 1966 in order to promote and protect the health, safety, and welfare of county citizens. Zoning regulates the uses allowed on land and the location of improvements on that land. The regulations are enacted pursuant to Illinois Compiled Statutes, Chapter 55, Section 5/5,
Paragraph 12001.

The unincorporated area of the county is divided into districts or "zones." Certain types of uses are allowed in each of these
districts. The zoning ordinance lists those uses. Anyone building in McLean County should be aware of the underlying zoning on their land so that they can become aware of what activities are allowed under zoning.

Agriculture Exemption:
Certain agricultural uses are exempt from meeting local zoning regulations, except for setback from streets.
according to state law. If a citizen believes their proposed use may be exempt, it is suggested that they verify that possibility
with the department and then confirm the information provided with their legal counsel.

 

 Construction:
Permits for most construction projects are required before that construction starts. Occupancy permits are issued upon completion of the construction project, or when the use of the land changes. On residentially used land, for example, permits are
generally required for most construction including new homes; additions to homes, including decks, porches and patios; detached buildings, including small storage buildings and permanent play equipment and above-ground and in-ground swimming pools; some
fences, and ponds. Generally three inspections are made during the course of construction: a stake-out inspection to verify the location of the improvement; a foundation inspection and a final inspection before an occupancy permit is issued.

Enforcement:
The Zoning Ordinance is enforced by several methods. There is first an attempt to educate the citizen of the zoning requirements and to obtain their voluntary compliance. If such voluntary compliance is not obtained, a violation notice and order
of compliance is issued which orders the violator to come into compliance. In cases which cannot be resolved at this
administrative level, an ordinance violation suit may be filed in the Circuit Court by the Civil Division of the States Attorney's Office. Fines and compliance is usually sought as part of this third method of enforcement.