Zoning

Planning & Zoning Background

In the early 1800's the area of land that would become known as Newton County was well on its way to establishing small residential communities and utilizing the rich agricultural land and natural resources the area has to offer.  As business, industry and technology began to change the future growth of Newton County, the elected officials recognized the need to protect their community.  On September 20, 1971 the Board of Commissioners adopted the first Official Newton County Zoning Map for Land Use and Zoning Ordinance.  

The Purpose of Planning & Zoning

Planning and Zoning is responsible for the day-to-day administration and enforcement of the Newton County Zoning Ordinance as well as the processing of the following:

  • Buffer Reduction
  • Conditional Use Permit
  • Map Corrections in unincorporated Newton County
  • Modification to Conditions of Zoning
  • Moved-in-House applications
  • Preliminary Plats
  • Rezoning
  • Special Exceptions
  • Subdivision of Land
  • Zoning Certifications

Planning & Zoning Staff

The Planning and Zoning staff also assists in helping the public understand the basis behind the ordinances and helps guide them through special permit or zoning procedures.

Zoning Ordinances

In general, zoning ordinances define land uses in a community, whether they be residential, commercial, industrial or parks, and govern all aspects of development and community enhancement, including:

  • Land Uses
  • Natural Resources
  • Open Space
  • Public Facilities
  • Safety
  • Traffic
  • Housing

Ordinances also benefit the community by establishing design standards for the land use.  

Overlay Districts

In unincorporated Newton County there are also unique communities that have established a character all of their own.  To help protect and direct the future growth in these areas, the Board of Commissioners has adopted special Overlay Districts.  Currently, there are three Overlay Districts, Almon Overlay, Brickstore Overlay and the Salem Overlay.

Agendas