Florence Zoning & Land Use Guide
Key Zoning Facts
Florence Zoning Overview
Florence is a major commercial hub in Northern Kentucky located at the intersection of Interstates 71/75 and 71. Known for its prominent water tower and extensive retail corridors, Florence serves as a regional shopping destination for the Greater Cincinnati area. The city has experienced rapid commercial and residential growth driven by its highway accessibility and proximity to the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport.
Florence operates through the Boone County Planning Commission for zoning administration. The city has a mix of large-format retail along its interstate corridors, established residential subdivisions, and newer mixed-use developments. Its famous water tower bearing the message that the city is known for reflects its identity as a commerce-driven community.
Key Zoning Districts
Florence uses single-family (R-1, R-2), multi-family (R-3), commercial (C-1 through C-4), and industrial (I-1) districts through the Boone County zoning code.
ADU Regulations
Florence allows limited accessory dwelling units through Boone County zoning provisions. Kentucky has no statewide ADU mandate, so local regulations govern all aspects of accessory dwelling units.
Development Process
Development applications go through the Boone County Planning Commission. Building permits enforce the Kentucky Building Code (2018 IBC). Zone changes require Planning Commission recommendation.
Regulatory Layers That Apply in Florence
Your property is subject to ALL of these regulatory layers. Each one can impose additional requirements beyond the others.
Federal
- FEMA Flood Zones: Applicable
- View FEMA Flood Map
County — Boone County
- Role: Property records, tax assessment, unincorporated area planning
City / Municipal
The city's zoning ordinance, building codes, and local permits form the primary layer of land-use regulation for your property.
Overlay Districts
No overlay districts identified.
Private Restrictions
- HOA / CC&Rs common: Yes
- Check HOA CC&Rs for additional restrictions.
Primary Zoning Districts
- Min Lot
- 8000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 35 ft
- Front Setback
- 25 ft
- Side Setback
- 6 ft
- Rear Setback
- 25 ft
- Min Lot
- 6000 sq ft
- Max Height
- 45 ft
- Front Setback
- 25 ft
- Side Setback
- 10 ft
- Rear Setback
- 25 ft
- Min Lot
- None
- Max Height
- 50 ft
- Front Setback
- 30 ft
- Side Setback
- 0 ft
- Rear Setback
- 0 ft
ADU Rules in Florence
- Max Size
- N/A
- Max Height
- N/A
- Rear Setback
- N/A
- Side Setback
- N/A
- Parking
- N/A
- Owner Occupancy
- N/A
- Permit Timeline
- N/A
Permit Costs & Timelines
Permit Costs & Timelines
Specific permit fee schedules for Florence are available from the local planning department. Fees vary based on project type, scope, and valuation.
Check Florence permit fees →