Apply for Special Use Permits - Metairie Terrace, LA

Land Use and Zoning Louisiana 3 Minutes Read · published February 21, 2026 Flag of Louisiana

Metairie Terrace, Louisiana property owners and developers seeking special use permits must follow Jefferson Parish zoning and permitting rules that govern conditional uses, variances, and exceptions in unincorporated areas. This guide explains the local process, responsible offices, typical timelines, and what to expect at review and enforcement stages. It cites official Jefferson Parish sources and provides concrete steps to apply, pay fees, respond to notices, and appeal decisions.

Overview of Special Use Permits

Special use permits (also called conditional uses or special exceptions in some ordinances) allow uses that are not permitted by right in a zoning district but may be approved subject to conditions. Eligibility, review criteria, and required public notices are set at the parish level; applicants should consult the Jefferson Parish zoning rules and the Planning & Zoning division for exact criteria.[1]

Apply early and confirm the applicable zoning district before preparing plans.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement of zoning violations and conditions attached to special use permits is managed by the Jefferson Parish Planning & Zoning Division and Code Enforcement. The primary remedies include notices of violation, administrative orders to cease unlawful uses, and civil penalties or fines. Specific fine amounts and escalation procedures for special use permit violations are not specified on the cited code page; applicants should contact Planning & Zoning for current schedules and practices.[1]

  • Fines: not specified on the cited page; contact Planning & Zoning for current fee schedules.
  • Escalation: first vs. repeat/continuing offences - not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: stop-work or cease-use orders, revocation of permit, or civil court enforcement.
  • Enforcer: Jefferson Parish Planning & Zoning Division (see contact link).[2]
  • Appeals/review: appeals typically go to the Jefferson Parish Board of Zoning Adjustments or the Parish Council as specified in the ordinance; time limits for appeals are not specified on the cited page.
  • Defences/discretion: permits, variances, or negotiated conditions may cure or limit liability where authorized by the zoning code.
If you receive a violation notice, contact Planning & Zoning immediately to learn appeal and cure deadlines.

Applications & Forms

The formal application, required plans, public-notice materials, and fee schedule are published or provided by Jefferson Parish Planning & Zoning. A named "Special Use" or "Conditional Use" application form may be available from the parish permit/forms page; if a specific form number or fee is not posted, the parish requires direct contact or in-person submission. Submit completed applications and plans to the Planning & Zoning office as directed by the department.[3]

How-To

  1. Confirm parcel zoning and whether the proposed use requires a special use or variance by consulting the Jefferson Parish zoning map and code.[1]
  2. Prepare application materials: site plan, elevations, statements addressing ordinance criteria, and any required neighborhood notices.
  3. Pay applicable application and public notice fees as listed by the parish; if fees are not posted, contact Planning & Zoning for the current schedule.[2]
  4. Attend the public hearing before the appropriate board (Board of Zoning Adjustments or Planning Commission) and be prepared to respond to conditions set by the board.
  5. If approved, obtain the permit and comply with any conditions; if denied, file an appeal per the ordinance timeframe or revise and reapply.
Public hearings often require mailed notice to nearby property owners and a sign posted on the property.

FAQ

How long does a special use permit take?
Timelines vary with the completeness of the application and hearing schedules; specific review times are not specified on the cited page—contact Planning & Zoning for current estimates.[2]
What fees apply to a special use application?
Fees are set by Jefferson Parish and may include application, advertising, and inspection fees; exact amounts are not specified on the cited page and must be confirmed with the parish.[3]
Can I appeal a denial?
Yes—appeal routes are defined in the zoning ordinance and typically involve the Board of Zoning Adjustments or Parish Council; time limits for appeals are not specified on the cited page.

Key Takeaways

  • Confirm zoning and application requirements before preparing plans.
  • Expect hearings and public notice requirements.
  • Contact Jefferson Parish Planning & Zoning early to verify fees and forms.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Jefferson Parish Code of Ordinances - Municode
  2. [2] Jefferson Parish Planning & Zoning division
  3. [3] Permits and application forms - Jefferson Parish

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