The Zoning Re-Write
Welcome to the Zoning Re-write page.
As the project progresses, we will be holding events virtual and in person to get resident and stakeholder feedback.
What is zoning?
Zoning is the City of Brunswick's main regulatory tool to implement in the long-term vision of the adopted Comprehensive Plan. Zoning separates land into districts (zones), outlines what development can look like, and how land is used.
For each parcel, zoning rules can address:
- Where uses like housing, offices, stores, or factories are permitted.
- The size, shape, and appearance of new buildings.
- The connections between new developments and the City's transportation network.
- Automotive and bicycle parking.
- The integration of open space, stormwater systems, and environmental features.
- Potential community benefits from new developments.
In Brunswick, the zoning ordinance contains the official processes and procedures for development.
What is a zoning ordinance?
In other words, the zoning ordinance (or zoning code) is the official, adopted record for all zoning rules and regulations. It also creates the official Brunswick zoning map.
Where does Brunswick derive the authority to practice zoning?
Zoning falls under the Constitution's police power, which enables governments to further public health, safety, and welfare for residents and citizens under their jurisdiction. The State of Maryland provides zoning authority to cities under the State Land Use Article. Maryland Code, Land Use § 4-102
Why update the zoning ordinance?
Brunswick's recently adopted Comprehensive Plan, Brunswick Forward, established a new vision for the City. The zoning ordinance is the primary tool to accomplish the development goals set up in Brunswick Forward.
Updating the zoning ordinance is also an opportunity to make sure that the zoning ordinance is functioning as intended, is easy to use, understandable, and free of unnecessary barriers or historical baggage.
What is the vision setup in Brunswick Forward?
Brunswick Forward sets out this vision for Brunswick: Brunswick is home to a thriving and inclusive community of residents and businesses with places they are proud to call home. Brunswick's historical roots are the foundation for the City's future as a place with character that draws visitors and maintains high standards of living.
What are the objectives for the update?
Brunswick's residents and stakeholders will set the objectives for the updated zoning code to ensure it fulfills the vision of the Brunswick Forward. Through Winter and Spring 2025, the Zoning Update Team will work with the community to answer the following questions before proposing any draft changes to Brunswick's zoning code:
- Does the code support the vision articulated in Brunswick Forward?
- What works, and what doesn't work?
- Are there confusing, contradictory, or draconian parts of the code?
- Does the existing organization make sense?
- Is the zoning code self-contained, or does it rely on too much external material?
- Which components are outdated?
- Is anything hindering economic development, housing diversity, and investment?
- Are there any other critical issues with the code?
A critical objective of this update’s engagement efforts will be to diagnose the Zoning Ordinance and compile a list of essential areas where change is needed. Honest discussions and open debate might be necessary to come to consensus on major issues before updating the code.
Who is leading the update?
The City of Brunswick Planning Department is leading the update to the zoning ordinance. Renaissance Planning Group is supporting the effort.