Hillsborough County is home to a variety of zoning districts, each designed to balance the diverse needs of residents, businesses, and industries. Among these, the CI (Commercial Intensive) district stands out as a key player in accommodating more intense commercial activities. This zoning classification opens opportunities for a wide range of businesses and services that have a greater impact on the community due to factors like traffic, noise, and outdoor storage. In this blog post, we’ll explore what makes the CI district unique, the types of businesses that thrive here, and how it contributes to the overall economy of Hillsborough County.
What is the CI District?
The CI (Commercial Intensive) zoning district is designed for businesses that require more intensive commercial activities. This district allows for a broader range of retail, service, and light industrial uses compared to more restrictive commercial zones like CN (Commercial Neighborhood) or CG (General Commercial). CI is tailored for areas where businesses may have greater external effects, such as:
- Higher traffic flow
- Noise levels
- Vibration and industrial activities
- Outdoor storage or manufacturing
The goal of the CI zoning district is to support businesses that may not fit comfortably in less intensive areas while ensuring they’re located in zones that won’t disrupt residential communities or essential public services.
Key Permitted Uses in the CI District
The CI zoning district permits an extensive list of commercial and industrial uses, making it ideal for businesses looking to establish larger-scale operations. Here are some notable uses allowed in CI:
1. Vehicle-Related Services:
- Body Shops and Major Vehicle Repair
- Sales, Rental, and Service of Commercial Vehicles
- Truck Stops
2. Retail and Wholesale:
- Department and Discount Stores
- Wholesale Distribution Centers
- Furniture Refinishing, Repair, and Upholstery
3. Industrial and Manufacturing:
- Lumber and Building Materials (With or Without Open Storage)
- Printing and Publishing (Large Scale)
- Hazardous Waste Facilities
4. Entertainment and Leisure:
- Nightclubs, Taverns, and Lounges
- Amusement and Theme Parks
5. Medical and Professional Services:
- Freestanding Emergency Rooms
- Diagnostic Centers
- Medical Offices and Clinics
The district's flexibility also accommodates businesses with open-storage requirements or those that need room for heavy equipment, making it a practical choice for contractors, wholesalers, and industrial suppliers.
Benefits of Operating in a CI District
For businesses that require larger footprints, outdoor storage, or a bustling traffic flow, the CI zoning district offers significant advantages:
- Larger Space for Operations: Whether you’re running a vehicle repair shop or a furniture distribution center, the CI zone allows for the use of larger parcels of land.
- Flexibility in Operations: Unlike other commercial zones, the CI district provides more leeway for activities that might produce noise, involve industrial processes, or require heavy equipment.
- Industrial and Commercial Synergy: Businesses in this zone can benefit from being close to suppliers, service providers, and customers that require similar levels of operational intensity.
Choosing the Right Location
Hillsborough County’s CI (Commercial Intensive) district is ideal for businesses that need room to grow and operate on a larger scale. Whether you’re looking to set up a large retail outlet, an industrial service, or a commercial vehicle operation, this zoning district provides the space and flexibility to meet your needs.
For more information about available properties in CI-zoned areas or to discuss your commercial real estate needs, contact us today at Cliggitt Realty. We’re here to help you find the perfect location for your business to thrive!
Thank you for your interest. For more information on the Tampa Bay Market or to discuss your property valuation needs feel free to contact:
Commercial Realtor
813.810.1615 - Direct Line
Disclosure: Please verify all zoning with the County. This blog is meant for educational purposes.
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