Why Zoning is a Critical First Step

One of the biggest challenges in launching an assisted living facility is ensuring that the city’s zoning laws and regulations align with your business plan. The wrong location can block your deal, cost you thousands in wasted investments, and even prevent you from operating at full capacity.

Before making an offer on a property, you must understand the zoning laws, city regulations, and permit requirements that could affect your project. In this guide, we’ll walk through how to navigate the planning department, ask the right questions, and set yourself up for success.

Step 1: Visit the Planning Department In-Person

While phone calls and emails might seem convenient, visiting the city planning department in person is far more effective. Here’s why:

Face-to-Face Rapport: Establishing a relationship with city officials makes it easier to get answers and guidance.

Immediate Follow-Ups: If the front desk staff can’t answer your questions, they’ll call in someone who can.

Persistence Matters: Officials can’t ignore you when you’re standing in front of them, ensuring you get all the information you need.

When visiting, be strategic about how you present your project. Instead of saying, “I’m building an assisted living facility,” start with softer terms like:

✅ “I’m looking to build a care home for seniors.”
✅ “I want to create a residential-style home with caregiving services.”
✅ “It will be a large house with a front porch, backyard, and private rooms.”

This approach prevents them from immediately labeling your project as a commercial facility, which can trigger additional regulations and requirements.

Step 2: Key Questions to Ask the Planning Department

Once you have their attention, ask specific zoning-related questions to avoid costly mistakes. Here’s what you need to find out:

1. What Zoning Classification Does My Project Fall Under?

Is it residential, commercial, or mixed-use?

Are there group home or senior care categories that apply?

2. What Are the Zoning Restrictions?

Are there bed count limits (e.g., max 6 beds vs. 16 beds)?

Are special permits required for senior housing?

Can the property be rezoned or granted an exemption?

3. Are There Additional Approval Processes?

Does this require city council approval?

Will I need to notify and get approval from neighbors?

What meetings or public hearings do I need to attend?

Step 3: Use GIS Mapping to Find Approved Properties

Many cities have a GIS (Geographic Information System) mapping tool available on their website. This tool helps you:

Check zoning classifications for specific properties

Identify land use restrictions and potential red flags

Determine whether a special use permit or rezoning request is needed

By using GIS mapping, you can quickly filter out properties that won’t work—saving time and money before making an offer.

Step 4: Consider Unincorporated Areas

If the city’s zoning laws are too restrictive, explore unincorporated areas outside of city limits. In many cases, these areas have:

✅ Fewer zoning restrictions
✅ Lower permit requirements
✅ More flexibility for larger facilities

Talk to the county planning department to understand what regulations apply and whether building in these areas could be a better option for your project.

Step 5: Plan for Permits, Utilities & Site Plans

Once zoning is confirmed, the next step is understanding the permit and utility requirements. Ask the city about:

Building Permits: What are the construction requirements?

Fire & Safety Regulations: Do I need sprinklers, alarms, or special fire exits?

Utilities & Infrastructure: Is there enough water supply for fire suppression systems?

Site Plan Requirements: Does my project need city approval before moving forward?

If additional approvals are needed, ensure your contract includes contingencies so you don’t commit to a property that won’t work.

Conclusion: Take a Proactive Approach

Zoning laws and city regulations can make or break your assisted living investment. By visiting the planning department in person, asking the right questions, and leveraging GIS mapping, you can avoid costly mistakes and secure the right property.

Next Steps:
​🚀 Continue your research by speaking with the building department. We’ll cover this in the next part of our series, including permit approvals, fire safety requirements, and utility access.