Planning

The Planning Department brings together building services, civil engineering, planning and zoning, permit applications, major projects, annexation and records in a way that customers can access information, start new projects, and get projects approved.

Responsibilities

The Planning and Zoning Division is responsible for all planning, development and permitting activities in the City of Donna and among other things, providing information to the public on annexations, building permits, inspections, health, planning and zoning, economic and industrial development, code enforcement, land use violations, long range planning and overall city infrastructure development.

Find the Zoning Ordinance (PDF).

Planning & Zoning Commission

Learn more about the Planning and Zoning Commission.

Learn more about the Building & Standards Commission

FAQs

What is a zoning district?

A zoning district is a classification of land in the city limits which divides property into specific types of uses. Zoning regulates the type of development that can occur in an area. Zoning also sets other standards for development in a particular zoning district. City Council determines the zoning designation of a property. For example, in the City there are zones that are reserved for residential, commercial, and industrial development.

What do the zoning district abbreviations (R-1, B-1, etc.) mean?

Each abbreviation refers to a specific zoning district which is regulated by an individual article or chapter contained in the Zoning Ordinance. The City of Donna is divided into five districts as follows:

District R-1: Single-Family Residential District
District R-2: Multi-Family Residential District
District B-1: Local Business District
District B-2: General Business District
District M-H: Mobile Home District

For the regulations and restrictions for each district, see the Zoning Ordinance.

How do I determine the zoning of my property?

The Planning Division keeps the official zoning map and can provide you with zoning information. Please call 956-464-6917 with either an address or legal description of the property.

How do I change the zoning of my property?

A property owner may request a zone change through the Planning Department. There are a set of criteria that must be met in order for a zone change to occur. Zone change requests are presented to the Planning and Zoning Commission and to the City Council. A non-refundable filing fee of $300.00 must be paid at the time the application for zone change is filed. If you would like more information, please call the Planning Department at 956-464-6917.

Download the Zone Change Application (PDF).

Can the Planning Department recommend contractors or engineers?

Unfortunately, the City of Donna cannot provide recommendations to homeowners or general contractors regarding contractors or engineers. Please check your phone book.

Can I subdivide my property?

A landowner may apply to have his or her property subdivided. This requires getting a surveyor and completing all other requirements. Please see application for the requirements. The non-refundable fee for an application for subdivision plat approval is $625, plus $25 per acre. Subdivision plat approvals are presented to the Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council. If you are interested in subdividing your property please contact the Planning Department at 956-464-6917 for more information.

Download the Subdivision Application (PDF).

What are setbacks and how do I find setback information?

Setbacks are distances from the property line in which a structure may not be located. Setbacks vary by the zoning designation of the property and are defined in the City of Donna Zoning Ordinance. The required setback may be different for a primary use structure versus an accessory use structure such as a shed. Find the Zoning Ordinance (PDF). For additional information, please contact the Planning Department at 956-464-6917.

I received a notice in the mail regarding a proposal in my area. What do I do?

State law and/or City regulations require property owners that are located within 200 feet from a proposed development to be notified. Please call the Planning Department for more information on the proposal if you have any questions. Everyone is invited to attend all Planning and Zoning Commission Meetings and City Council Public Meetings to offer any relevant public input. More information can be found in the Planning and Zoning Public Notice (PDF).

Can I move my house/trailer in any location inside Donna?

No, we do check the zone on the proposed address on applications submitted. They are only allowed in Mobile Home District MH or restrictions on the subdivisions.

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