Answers to Frequently Asked Questions for Residents

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions for Residents - Page 1
The following are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions in the Planning and Development Services Department. Additional Resident FAQs are available by following the links at the bottom of the page.


General Questions


Can I keep horses on my property?



It depends on the zoning of your property. First, you will need to find out the zoning designation on your property. Only the "AG" Agricultural, "RE" Residential Estate, "SF1-A", and "SF1-B" residential zoning districts are permitted private stables as accessory uses on the lot. In those zoning categories, each grazing animal over 500 lbs. requires a minimum of 15,000 square feet of open space and each grazing animal under 500 lbs. requires 5,000 square feet of open space.



Can I have a home-based business in my home? What are the restrictions on it?



Yes, you are permitted to have a home-based business (called a Home Occupation) as long as it meets the definition for a home occupation under the Zoning Ordinance. You will have to obtain a permit from the city before you can operate a home-based business. Click here for an application for a home occupation permit.



Can I have a garage sale at my home? Is so, can I have signs for the garage sale?



Yes and you do not need a permit to have one. However, there are limits and regulations on garage sales. You can only have a maximum of two per year and you are only allowed a maximum of four (4) signs. One sign may be at the location of the garage sale. Three may be at other locations. However, you cannot place the signs on any telephone poles, street signs, or anywhere in a public right-of-way, which is generally the 10 foot space starting at the curb. If you wish more detailed information, you may review the sign ordinance.



What are covenants and deed restrictions?



Also called CC&R's, deed restrictions and covenants are private limitations on the use of real property. Restrictive covenants are created by deed (by the subdivider/owner) and may "run with the land", binding all subsequent purchasers of the land, or may be personal and binding only between the original seller and buyer. Restrictive covenants may limit the density of buildings per acre, regulate size, design, style or price range of buildings to be erected, or prevent particular businesses from operating in a given area.



Typically, CC&R's are enforced by home owner's associations or private property owners in a civil action. The city does not enforce deed restrictions. It is the responsibility of the property owner to research the effect of deed restrictions on any building permits or development activity on the subject property.



How can I find out if there are covenants and deed restrictions on my property?



Typically covenants and deed restrictions are conveyed with the property deed records. If you do not have a copy of the covenants, you should contact the County plat records. The city does not maintain copies of any deed restrictions in its records.
From:
www.CityOfSouthlake.com