Zoning & Compliance
Navigate El Paso's zoning regulations and building codes to ensure your business location and operations are fully compliant with local requirements.
El Paso Zoning Districts
Understanding zoning classifications and what's allowed in each district.
Commercial Zones
C-1, C-2, C-3Retail stores, restaurants, offices, and service businesses
Allowed Uses
- Retail establishments and shopping centers
- Restaurants and food service businesses
- Professional offices and medical clinics
- Personal services (salons, dry cleaners, etc.)
- Banks and financial institutions
- Hotels and lodging facilities
Key Restrictions
- Building height limits vary by zone (typically 35-75 feet)
- Parking requirements based on square footage
- Setback requirements from property lines
- Signage size and placement restrictions
Industrial Zones
I-1, I-2Manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution facilities
Allowed Uses
- Light and heavy manufacturing operations
- Warehousing and distribution centers
- Research and development facilities
- Wholesale trade establishments
- Truck terminals and freight facilities
- Industrial services and repair shops
Key Restrictions
- Environmental impact assessments may be required
- Noise and emission regulations apply
- Loading dock and truck access requirements
- Hazardous materials storage regulations
Mixed-Use Zones
MU-1, MU-2Combination of residential, commercial, and office uses
Allowed Uses
- Ground floor retail with upper floor residential
- Office spaces combined with retail
- Restaurants and entertainment venues
- Live-work units and artist studios
- Community facilities and services
- Urban residential developments
Key Restrictions
- Specific use percentages required (e.g., 60% residential)
- Design standards for building facades
- Pedestrian-oriented development requirements
- Parking shared between uses
Home-Based Business
Residential ZonesBusinesses operated from residential properties
Allowed Uses
- Professional services (consulting, accounting)
- Online retail and e-commerce
- Creative services (design, writing)
- Small-scale crafts and artisan work
- Tutoring and instruction (limited students)
- Home offices for remote work
Key Restrictions
- No exterior signage or commercial appearance
- Limited client/customer visits
- No employees other than residents
- No inventory storage visible from outside
- Parking must not impact neighborhood
- Quiet hours must be observed
How to Verify Zoning for Your Location
Follow these steps to confirm your business is in the right zone.
Find Your Property Address
Locate the exact street address and legal description of your business location.
Check Zoning Map
Visit the City of El Paso Planning Department website or office to view the official zoning map.
Review Zoning Code
Read the specific regulations for your zoning district in the El Paso Municipal Code.
Verify Permitted Uses
Confirm your business type is listed as a permitted or conditional use in that zone.
Contact Planning Department
Speak with a planner to clarify any questions and confirm your business is compliant.
Building Code Compliance
Essential building code requirements for El Paso businesses.
Building Permits
- New construction requires full building permit
- Renovations over $5,000 require permit
- Change of occupancy classification requires permit
- Structural modifications always require permit
- Electrical, plumbing, and HVAC work requires separate permits
Fire Safety
- Fire sprinkler systems for buildings over 5,000 sq ft
- Fire alarm systems based on occupancy type
- Emergency exit signage and lighting
- Fire extinguishers properly placed and maintained
- Annual fire safety inspections required
Accessibility (ADA)
- Accessible parking spaces (minimum 1 per 25 spaces)
- Wheelchair ramps with proper slope (1:12 ratio)
- Accessible restrooms with grab bars
- Doorways minimum 32 inches clear width
- Accessible routes throughout facility
Energy Efficiency
- Compliance with International Energy Conservation Code
- Insulation requirements for walls and roofs
- Energy-efficient HVAC systems
- LED or energy-efficient lighting
- Energy audit may be required for large buildings
Signage Permit Requirements
Regulations for business signs in El Paso.
| Sign Type | Maximum Size | Key Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| Wall Signs | 10% of building facade |
|
| Monument Signs | 32 sq ft per face |
|
| Window Signs | 25% of window area |
|
| Temporary Signs | 6 sq ft |
|
Environmental Regulations
Environmental compliance requirements for specific business types.
Air Quality Permits
Applies to: Manufacturing, auto repair, painting operations
- Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) permit
- Emissions monitoring and reporting
- Pollution control equipment
Water Discharge Permits
Applies to: Industrial facilities, car washes, food processing
- Wastewater discharge permit from El Paso Water
- Pretreatment of industrial wastewater
- Regular water quality testing
Hazardous Materials
Applies to: Chemical storage, laboratories, manufacturing
- Hazardous Materials Business Plan
- Proper storage and labeling
- Emergency response procedures
- Annual reporting to fire department
Waste Management
Applies to: All businesses generating waste
- Proper waste disposal contracts
- Recycling program (for large businesses)
- Special handling for hazardous waste
- Medical waste permits (healthcare)
Applying for a Zoning Variance
If your business doesn't fit standard zoning, you may request a variance.
Submit Application
Complete variance application with detailed justification and site plans
Staff Review
Planning Department reviews application for completeness and compliance
Public Notice
Property owners within 200 feet are notified of variance request
Board Hearing
Present your case to the Board of Adjustment at public hearing
Decision
Board votes to approve, approve with conditions, or deny variance
Appeal Period
15-day period for appeals; if none, decision becomes final
Important Notes:
- • Variance application fee: $500-$1,000 depending on request type
- • Must demonstrate hardship or unique property circumstances
- • Variance runs with the property, not the owner
- • Approval is not guaranteed; prepare a strong justification
Important Contacts
Connect with these departments for zoning and compliance assistance.
Planning & Inspections Department
Services:
Development Services
Services:
Fire Prevention Bureau
Services:
Environmental Services
Services:
Questions About Zoning or Compliance?
Our team can help you navigate zoning regulations and ensure your business location meets all compliance requirements.
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