Planning & Zoning

Click here for 2022/2023 Maysville/Mason County Comprehensive Plan Update Page
Please visit the Forms page to access Planning & Zoning forms.
Zoning Information
The Land Use Management Ordinance (LUMO) and Map are joint ordinances utilized by both governments. The maps, one for the City and one for the County, divide all land into zones: residential, commercial, industrial, or agricultural. The ordinance details allowable uses in each zone, minimum lot size requirements, sign regulations, map and text amendment procedures, as well as regulations for the Boards of Adjustment and Board of Architectural Review.
The Subdivision Regulations are a specific guide for development procedures. They detail how land can be divided, and what measures must be considered during development, i.e. utilities and road construction, stormwater regulations, etc.
The landmark US Supreme Court case Village of Euclid Ohio v. Ambler Realty Co., 272 U.S. 365 (1926) paved the way for comprehensive zoning regulations throughout the country. The court held that zoning ordinances were a “valid exercise of constitutional police power.” Planning and zoning in Maysville dates back to the late 1950s, when in 1958 the Maysville Zoning and Planning Commission conducted its first meeting. This commission was initially composed of 7 members that included elected officials and citizens. A 5-member Maysville Zoning and Adjustment Commission was also established. Subdivision regulations were adopted in 1961 and were in effect in the City and five miles beyond the City territorial limits. From 1965-1969, a court order required the City to diminish these regulations beyond the City limits; although they were re-established until 1982 when the Mason County Fiscal Court adopted them as well.
In 1966, following progressive legislation by the Kentucky State Legislature overhauling Kentucky Revised Statute 100, a full citizen appointed commission was established by the City of Maysville. In 1971, the Mason County Joint Planning Commission was created with the addition of the Mason County Fiscal Court and City of Washington; although, Maysville was the only jurisdiction to enforce zoning regulations.
In 1988 and 1990, the Architectural Review Boards were established for Maysville and Washington respectively. In 1996, the boards were combined to create the Maysville/Washington Board of Architectural Review.
In 2002, zoning regulations were adopted by the Mason County Fiscal Court ultimately creating a comprehensive Joint Planning Commission, as well as a county Board of Adjustment.
Planning & Zoning Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Planning & Zoning Informational Links
Official Maysville/Mason County Land Use Map

View Larger Map
If you have trouble determining a “zone,” please click on “view larger map.” Once you get into the larger map, click on “details” then “show contents of map.” This will let you turn on/off zones.