The City of Hilliard is proposing updates to its zoning code that would establish new zoning districts and architectural standards for Downtown Hilliard, the Gateway District along the Cemetery Road/Leap Road corridors, and the Heritage Trail corridor.
The proposed changes are intended to help implement the vision of the Hilliard Community Plan by guiding future development in these key areas and creating a framework for thoughtful growth. These changes are not a development proposal. They would establish new zoning classifications for properties within the designated areas, potentially changing the uses and development standards permitted on those properties.
The proposed zoning changes are designed to guide future development while preserving Hilliard’s character and quality of life. They would help:
The City of Hilliard planning division will present the draft code updates to City Council on Monday, Nov. 9, at 5 p.m. during Committee of the Whole. After receiving comments and feedback from the public through the engagement opportunities listed below, the revised code will be presented to the Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council in early 2027.
Community input is an important part of the zoning code update. There are several ways to learn more, ask questions and share your thoughts.
1. Public Open House
Tuesday, Nov. 17 | 4-6 p.m.
Council Chambers, 3800 Municipal Way
Stop by anytime between 4 and 6 p.m. to learn about the proposed zoning districts, review maps and other materials, talk with City staff and provide your feedback.
2.Gallery and open office hours
Can’t attend the Open House or want more time to talk with City staff?
Join us during gallery and open office hours for an informal opportunity to review the proposed zoning changes, ask questions and share your thoughts. Open house materials will be available, and City staff will be on hand to answer questions at the following times:
3.Share your thoughts
Have feedback about the proposed zoning districts or architectural standards? Share your thoughts with the City using the comment form below.
A zoning code is a legal tool that determines what can be built where and how buildings are used (land use). Zoning codes are used by cities to realize the visions laid out in comprehensive plans, area plans, etc. The City of Hilliard is proposing the zoning code update to support the vision and goals of the Hilliard Community Plan.
In 2021, the City launched a process to update its comprehensive plan. A diverse steering committee of 27 residents was formed to lead the plan development, to ensure the plan was based on the values, needs, and aspirations of the community. This steering committee worked on the updated plan for 14 months and held 11 public meetings to discuss and decide on plan elements. Numerous public input opportunities were completed, both in person and online, to help inform the steering committee, consultants, and City staff as the plan was being drafted, ensuring the plan reflects the community’s vision. The plan was presented to and approved by both the City’s Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council in the spring of 2023.
The zoning code regulates what is permitted or not permitted within district areas. It does NOT bring or create development on its own, but instead, regulates development proposals by private property owners. The City anticipates that any change in the new zoning districts will be a slow process, likely occurring over the next 5, 10, 20, and even 40 years. These zoning changes are to support the vision of the Hilliard Community Plan, but they will not guarantee change or cause it to happen.
Development occurs when private property owners decide to develop their land, and property owners follow the steps and processes that must occur prior to the development being approved by the City. The development process for most projects includes additional windows for public comment, including being reviewed by the Planning and Zoning Commission.
No. The City cannot take your land for private development. For privately owned property to be developed for redeveloped for any non-public use, there must be a willing seller and a willing buyer. Only private property owners have the legal right to develop or sell their property.
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