Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does the county enforce any of the covenants or deed restrictions that may be applicable to my subdivision?

Many of the subdivisions in the county are subject to covenants and deed restrictions which regulate the use of property beyond the limitations contained in the city’s/county's zoning ordinance. These deeds and covenants are private agreements between property owners and are not enforced by the city or county. Therefore, before you add a shed or fence to your property or initiate any other significant changes, you should also check with your homeowners' association to determine if any restrictions apply.

2. How can I find out how my property is zoned, what uses may be established on the property and what the applicable setback requirements are for my property?

The uses that are allowed on a particular lot are governed by the regulations for the zoning district in which the lot is located and other general regulations. The minimum yard requirements, more commonly referred to as " setback requirements", along with other location regulations, restrict the location of structures on a lot. The setback requirements vary by zoning district. In order to find out the zoning of your property and how the use of the property is regulated, you can: (1) use our online search at www.linkgis.org; (2) find the appropriate zoning map at www.nkapc.org; or (3) contact the NKAPC staff at 859-331-8980.

3. What is zoning?

Zoning is the classification of land into districts. The purpose of zoning is to regulate the use of land including the use, placement, size of buildings, yard requirements and parking. A zoning law consists of two parts: (1) a zoning map showing the boundaries of the various districts; and (2) a written text (called a zoning ordinance) setting forth the regulations applicable to each district.

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4. What is the process for changing the zoning of a property in Kenton County?

A request for a Map Amendment (zone change) is required in such cases where development which is proposed on a site is not consistent with the current zoning. Requests may originate from the property owner (or agent), the planning commission or the legislative body. Complete applications are submitted to the staff of the Northern Kentucky Area Planning Commission for review and recommendation to the Kenton County Planning Commission, which holds at least one public hearing following public notice. Findings of fact and recommendation including a summary of evidence and testimony are then sent to the legislative body for final action to be taken on the request. Approximately four to six months should be anticipated to complete the Map Amendment process. More information can be found here.

5. Where can I get a copy of my city’s/county’s zoning ordinance?

The zoning ordinances for each jurisdiction in Kenton County are maintained by the staff of the Northern Kentucky Area Planning Commission (NKAPC). You can access them at www.nkapc.org.