Rezoning in San Antonio

[Alan Becker]

I bought a bank owned property off an auction website. It is and has been a duplex for decades including separate central air units. It is zoned as single family and I am having trouble deciphering the city's application for change of zoning. Can anyone in San Antonio offer me assistance with this?

Thanks,

Alan B.

[Seth Teel]

@Alan Becker @Rick Pozos

Alternatively to a re-zone the city does have a non-conforming use application and process.  If you can provide evidence that it was being used a duplex (leases & utility data help) prior to the zoning change to single-family, they will typically approve the use administratively.   If you go this route it's less costly and quicker, however you have to reapply every year, and if there is a gap of more than 1 year in the use as a duplex, the non-conforming use permit is revoked.  

That being said, get a property re-zoned can be a long and costly process.  Every zoning change requires vote from City Council, and often other stakeholders (Neighbors, Neighborhood Associations, and/or  the District Council Person), may not want the re-zone.  This annoying process can leave the property owner in a hard place. 

Best of luck with your change.  Feel free to reach out if you have other questions.  I know enough to be dangerous, but the City's BS rules never cease to amaze me.