Keep your distance! Robert Frost said that good fences make for good neighbors. Maybe keeping potential neighbors physically apart is an even better way of making for good neighbors. Zoning is based on the idea of separating incompatible uses by … Read more

In the world of fashion they say that accessories make the man. What kinds of accessories are we talking about? Accessories such as belts, socks, handkerchiefs, ties, and caps. They complement a man’s shirt, pants, shoes, and jacket. They enhance … Read more

The driveway will be the end of the road. So sings Miley Cyrus in the song “Driveway.” Actually, Miley, a driveway normally is just one access point along a road, not necessarily the road’s end.  But I’m not sure that … Read more

You know the old Jones house down on 4th Street in the town’s historic district, don’t you? Well, it’s a real shame that it is in such bad shape. I remember when that house was right at the center of … Read more

Imagine a balmy autumn evening. You and your family or friends have plans to go out for dinner. The restaurant that you have in mind offers you the chance to grab a table outdoors on the sidewalk. Have you ever … Read more

Several years ago I prepared a blog entitled “Nuisance Abatement and Local Governments: What a Mess.” At the end of that blog I promised a sequel to take up several other legal issues related to nuisance abatement and building condemnation. … Read more

One of the many bills that has drawn public and media attention this spring has been House Bill 150, a bill dealing with residential “design controls.” With certain notable exceptions it generally prohibits zoning or land subdivision regulations related to … Read more

The story goes something like this:  Jones, who is something of an eccentric guy anyway, lives in a relatively good neighborhood. But his house has never really fit into the area. His house looks like a work in progress with … Read more

If you are looking for a last-minute holiday gift for someone at this time of year, you may want to forego purchasing your friend or relative a gift card at the local video sweepstakes operation (VSO). That gift card may … Read more

How many times have you been to a public hearing and heard opponents to a particular zoning proposal say that it will cause the values of their property to decline? The impact on property values is a theme that runs … Read more