Special Use Permit

A discretionary approval allowing a land use that is not permitted by right in a zoning district but may be allowed under specific conditions after public review.

What is a Special Use Permit?

A special use permit (SUP) is a type of discretionary land use approval that functions similarly to a conditional use permit. In many jurisdictions, the terms are used interchangeably. The SUP allows a use that the zoning code recognizes may be appropriate in a given district but that requires individual review to ensure compatibility with the surrounding area.

When Special Use Permits Are Required

SUPs are commonly required for uses that generate higher-than-typical impacts — such as gas stations, cell towers, large-scale religious institutions, daycare centers, or outdoor storage facilities. The zoning code will list which uses require an SUP in each district.

Review Process

The review process typically includes a staff report evaluating the proposal against specific criteria set forth in the zoning ordinance, public notification of surrounding property owners, and a public hearing. Decision-making bodies evaluate factors such as traffic impact, noise, visual compatibility, and adequacy of infrastructure. Approvals often come with conditions designed to mitigate identified impacts.