Zoning B-5

Rehabbing, Fix and Flip, Rental Properties
1

All

I found a property on an intersection where a community is being developed( around 200 houses and more).

I just talked to the realtor and found that its zoned B-5.
Property is in Texas. I was to build a neighbourhood Gas Station/Convenience Store. I own few convenience stores but never owned/built the real estate. So tons of questions.

  1. Plated? What does that mean?

  2. B-5 Does these codes have different meaning for each county? or its same for All of a state(TX)? or all the over the country?

  3. I was checking the county website but did not find info on the zoning. Any particular section I should be looking for?

  4. How easy is it to get rezoned? Are there firms that specializes in this? Any idea how much do they charge?

5)Even if its zoned for convenience store/gas station- this does not mean that the local Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission will allow sale of Beer/Wine. So its a catch 22. How to approach this.

So I was planning to get the property under contract and then go after these rezoning(if needed) and TABC License etc.

Your thoughts and answers is would be of great help.
Thanks

2

Hi Techphobic,

Getting the property under contract is a good idea especially if it’s a good deal. I recommend that you put in there that it’s contingent on the zoning allowing for your intended use.

I’m not sure what ‘plated’ means . . . do you mean ‘platted’? That would mean that the lots are already separated and assigned separate lot numbers by the county.

Lastly, counties and states all have differing zoning codes. I recommend you go down to the building department and talk with the folks there. Most states I have worked in (although not in Texas) they are very friendly and helpful but not always. Get as much as info as you can and then make your decision. You may want to double check with a land use attorney especially if there will be a lot at stake.

Hope this helps.

Good luck and keep us posted on your progress.

Cate

3

Thanks for taking the time to reply.

Yes I meant ‘platted’.
Will keep everyone posted.