Frequently Asked Questions

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.

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.

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.

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).

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

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).

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.

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).

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.