Residents have lots of zoning questions, even if they don't always realize it.

Why is there a business located next to a neighborhood? What do I need to do to start my own home-based business? Does the county allow industries to locate here if they produce noxious gases? Why is my subdivision split into two different zonings?

Newton County will attempt to answer those questions at a Zoning 101 class tonight from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Turner Lake Complex.

Georgia Tech student Lauren Spencer created a 30-minute presentation on zoning basics as part of her summer internship with the county. An additional 30 minutes or more will be available for public questions.

Newton County actually didn't start regulating zoning until the 1970s and the code's complexity has grown since then, Zoning Administrator Branin Burdette said. The presentation will cover every type of zoning and what's allowed in those zonings.

If you're planning to attend or would like more information, email Burdette at bburdette@co.newton.ga.us or call him at 678-625-1656.