Hello,

We have recently encountered situations where business owners are seeking to convert downtown storefront properties into residential apartments. We are evaluating how to address this matter and would like to know if any municipalities have an ordinance in place that restricts or regulates this type of conversion.

If so, we would appreciate any information or examples you would be willing to share.

Clint,

To me, the zoning classification of the property will dictate whether or not they can use the retail space as residential. If your jurisdiction wants to allow this then there needs to me some sort of mixed use classification that the store front can be rezoned to. Hope this helps.

Clint,

It may be that you all consider an overlay district that provides design guidelines and agree with Keith to consider the Zoning Districts for permitted uses.

First thing is to know what is the current zoning of this downtown property (probably is C-1, C-2, or C-3).
Check your ordinance and determine whether or not residential uses are allowed as a "permitted" or "conditional-use".
If not- rezoning may be a route to take BUT ask yourself a question-- "...does your city want to go donw the road of "spot-zoning" to apease certain citizens"-- spot zoning can create an unnecessary headach and is discouraged by most planning professionals.