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Charleston County SC | Base Zoning Districts

Article & SectionBase Zoning District   (click below to navigate)
Article 4.1
Article4.2
Article 4.3
Article 4.4
Article 4.5
Article 4.6
Article 4.7
Article 4.8
Article 4.9
Article 4.10
Article 4.11
Article 4.12
Article 4.13
Article 4.14
Article 4.15
Article 4.16
Article 4.17
Article 4.18
Article 4.19
Article 4.20
Article 4.21
Article 4.22
GENERAL 4-1
MEASUREMENTS, COMPUTATIONS AND EXCEPTIONS 4-2
AG-25, RESOURCE MANAGEMENT DISTRICT 4-4
AG-15, AGRICULTURAL PRESERVATION DISTRICT 4- 5
AG-10, AGRICULTURAL PRESERVATION DISTRICT 4-6
AG-8, AGRICULTURAL PRESERVATION DISTRICT 4-7
AGR, AGRICULTURAL / RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT 4-8
RR-3, RURAL RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT 4-10
RR-1, RURAL RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT 4-11
RSL, LOW-DENSITY SUBURBAN RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT 4-11
RSM, MODERATE-DENSITY SUBURBAN RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT 4-13
MHS, LOW-DENSITY MANUFACTURED HOME SUBDIVISION DISTRICT 4-13
MHP, MANUFACTURED HOUSING PARK DISTRICT 4-14
OR, RESIDENTIAL OFFICE DISTRICT 4-15
OG, GENERAL OFFICE DISTRICT 4-17
CN, NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL DISTRICT 4-17
CT, COMMERCIAL TRANSITION DISTRICT 4-18
CR-1, RURAL COMMERCIAL DISTRICT 4-19
CR-2, RURAL COMMERCIAL DISTRICT 4-20
CC, COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL DISTRICT 4-21
I, INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT 4-21
WATER FRONT DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS 4-22



Article 4.1 General

§4.1.1 ESTABLISHMENT OF ZONING DISTRICTS

The following base zoning districts are hereby established:

DISTRICT NAME COMPREHENSIVE PLAN LAND USE
AG-25 Resource Management Resource Management [Agricultural]
AG-15 Agricultural Preservation Agricultural Preservation (Agricultural]
AG-10 Agricultural Preservation Agricultural Preservation [Agricultural]
AG-8 Agricultural Preservation Agricultural Preservation [Agricultural] Rural Agricultural [Rural]
AGR Agricultural/Residential Agricultural Residential [Agricultural]
RR-3 Rural Residential Rural Residential [Rural]
RR-1 Rural Residential Residential/Special Management [Suburban]
RSL Low-Density Suburban Residential Residential Low Density [Suburban]
RSM Moderate-Density Suburban Residential Residential Moderate Density [Suburban]
MHS Low-Density Manufactured Housing Subdivision Residential Low Density [Suburban]
MHP Manufactured Housing Park Residential Moderate Density [Suburban]
OR Residential Office Commercial [Suburban]
OG General Office Commercial [Suburban]
CN Neighborhood Commercial Commercial [Suburban]
CT Commercial Transition Commercial [Suburban]
CR-1 Rural Commercial Commercial [Agricultural]
CR-2 Rural Commercial Commercial [Rural]
CC Community Commercial Commercial [Suburban]
I Industrial Industrial [Rural and Suburban]

§4.1.2 ZONING DISTRICT REFERENCES

References in this Ordinance to nonresidential zoning districts shall be construed as references to all base zoning districts beginning with the letters "O" (Office), "C" (Commercial) or "I" (Industrial). References to residential zoning districts shall be construed as references to all base zoning districts beginning with the letter "R" and "M". References to agricultural zoning districts shall be construed as references to all base zoning districts beginning with the letter "A".

§4.1.3 ZONING DISTRICT HIERARCHY

Under the hierarchy established by this Ordinance, the AG-25 district is the most restrictive base zoning district, while the I district is the least restrictive base zoning district. The table of Section

4.1.1 presents the districts in order, from most to least restrictive. The Planned Development, Overlay and Special Purpose zoning districts are not included in the zoning district hierarchy.




Article 4.2 Measurements, Computations, and Exceptions

§4.2.1 DENSITY

Density refers to the number of dwelling units per unit of land area. Density is calculated by dividing the number of dwelling units on a site by the gross area (in acres) of highland (including freshwater wetlands) of the site on which the dwelling units are located. The number of dwelling units allowed on a site is based on the presumption that all other applicable standards of this Ordinance shall be met. The maximum density established for a district is not a guarantee that such densities may be obtained, nor shall the inability of a development to achieve the stated maximum density be considered sufficient justification for varying or otherwise adjusting other density, intensity or dimensional standards of this Ordinance.

§4.2.2 LOT AREA

A. MEASUREMENT

Lot area refers to the horizontal land area within lot lines, including freshwater wetlands.

B. EXCEPTIONS

No zoning permit, building permit or development approval may be issued for a lot that does not meet the minimum lot area requirements of this Ordinance except in the following cases:

  1. Nonconforming lots may be used in accordance with the provisions contained in Chapter 10 of this Ordinance.
  2. Utilities using land or an unoccupied building covering less than 1,000 square feet of site area shall be exempt from minimum lot area standards.

C. ABSENCE OF SEWER OR WATER

In the absence of public water or public sewer, no zoning permit or building permit shall be issued until the lot meets all applicable requirements of this Ordinance and the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC).

§4.2.3 SETBACKS

Setbacks refer to the unobstructed, unoccupied open area between the furthermost projection of a structure and the property line of the lot on which the structure is located, except as modified by the standards of this section.

A. EXCEPTIONS TO SETBACKS

Every part of a required setback must be open and unobstructed from the ground to the sky except as set out in this subsection.

  1. Trees, shrubbery or other landscape features may be located within any required setback.
  2. Fences and walls may be located within any required setback, provided that in residential, office and commercial districts no fence, wall or hedge shall exceed:
a.
4 feet in height when located within any front or street side setback;
b.
8 feet in height when located in an interior side or rear setback.
  1. Driveways may be located in front and street side setbacks.
  2. Sidewalks may be located within any required setback.
  3. Utility lines, wires and associated structures, such as power poles, may be located within any required setback.
  4. Uncovered porches, uncovered steps to building entrances, uncovered patio decks and uncovered balconies may extend up to 5 feet into any required front, rear or street side setback.
  5. Openwork fire balconies and fire escapes may extend up to 5 feet into any required side setback.
  6. Sills, belt courses, cornices, buttresses, eaves and other architectural features may extend up to 2 feet into any required setback.
  7. Chimneys and flues may extend up to 2 feet into any required setback.
  8. Satellite dish antennas may be placed in required rear setbacks.
  9. Mechanical equipment, including Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) equipment, may be extended up to 5 feet into required side or rear setbacks in all zoning districts.

B. CONTEXTUAL SETBACKS

Notwithstanding the front setback requirements of the underlying zoning district, the front building line of any structure or addition to a structure may be as close to the street as the front building line of a structure located on any lot that is immediately adjacent to the subject lot. If the subject lot is located between 2 developed lots, the front building line of the structure that is set back further from the street shall apply to the subject lot.

C. SETBACK REDUCTIONS

Where the front, interior side and rear setbacks of the underlying zoning district reduces the buildable width of a lot to less than 40 feet, the Planning Director shall be authorized to reduce the required setbacks as much as necessary. However, no setback reduction granted by the Planning Department shall be for more than 15 feet.

D. FRONT SETBACKS ON NARROW STREETS

Where a lot abuts a dedicated street (that has been accepted for street maintenance) with a right-of-way width of less than 50 feet, the required front setback shall be measured from a line measured 25 feet from the center of such right-of-way.

E. SETBACKS ON CORNER AND DOUBLE-FRONTAGE LOTS

On corner and double-frontage lots, front setback standards will apply to each lot line that borders a street. The remaining lot lines will be subject to side setback standards. There is no rear lot line.

F. REDUCTION FOR PUBLIC PURPOSE

When an existing setback is reduced because of conveyance to a federal, state or local government for a public purpose and the remaining setback is at least 50 percent of the required minimum setback for the district in which it is located, then that remaining setback will be deemed to satisfy the minimum setback standards of this Ordinance.

§4.2.4 BUILDING HEIGHT Building Height

Building height refers to the vertical distance between the base flood elevation and: 1) the average height level between the eaves and ridge line of a gable, hip or gambrel roof; 2) the highest point of a mansard roof; or 3) the highest point of the coping of a flat roof.

A. FENCES OR WALLS

In the case of fences or walls, height shall be measured from ground level on the higher side of the fence or wall.

B. EXCEPTIONS TO HEIGHT LIMITS

Unless otherwise expressly stated, the height limitations of this Ordinance shall not apply to any of the following:

  1. Farm buildings in any Agricultural zoning (A) district;
  2. Electrical power transmission lines;
  3. Belfries, cupolas, spires, domes, monuments, flagpoles, chimneys, radio/television receiving antennas or chimney flues; or
  4. Bulkhead, elevator, water tank, or any other similar structure or necessary mechanical appurtenance extending above the roof of any building, if such structure does not occupy more than 33a percent of the area of the roof.

§4.2.5 BUILDING COVERAGE

Building coverage refers to the area of a lot covered by buildings (principal and accessory) or roofed areas, as measured along the outside wall at ground level, and including all projections, other than open porches, fire escapes, canopies and the first 2 feet of a roof overhang.



Article 4.3 AG25 Resource Management District

§4.3.1 DESCRIPTION

The AG-25, Resource Management district implements the Resource Management (Rural Landscape-Agricultural Area) policies of the Comprehensive Plan.

§4.3.2 USE REGULATIONS

Uses are allowed in the AG-25 district in accordance with the Use Regulations of Chapter 6.

§4.3.3 DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS

All residential and nonresidential development in the AG-25 district shall be subject to the following density, intensity and dimensional standards:

AG-25 DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS
MAXIMUM DENSITY [1] 1 dwelling unit per 25 acres
MINIMUM LOT AREA 1 acre
MINIMUM LOT WIDTH 135 feet
MINIMUM SETBACKS
Front/Street Side 50 feet
Interior Side 15 feet
Rear 30 feet
OCRM Critical Line 50 feet
MAXIMUM BUILDING COVER 30% of lot
MAXIMUM HEIGHT 35 feet

[3] On tracts of 100 or more acres, where lots ranging from 1 to 3 acres are created, a bonus of one dwelling shall be allowed on the residual area of the parent tract.

§4.3.4 OTHER REGULATIONS

Development in the AG-25 district shall comply with all other applicable regulations of this ordinance, including the development standards of Chapter 9. All waterfront property subdivided after April 21, 1999 shall be subject to the provisions of the Waterfront Development Standards contained in Article

4.22 of this Chapter.

§4.3.5 ONE TIME SUBDIVISION OF NON-CONFORMING LOT OF RECORD EXISTING PRIOR TO APRIL 21, 1999

A one time subdivision creating one lot from a non-conforming lot of record (lot existing prior to April 21, 1999) shall be allowed, if each lot resulting from the subdivision meets the minimum lot area requirement of the AG-25 Zoning District.



Article 4.4 AG-15 Agricultural Preservation District

§4.4.1 DESCRIPTION

The AG-15, Agricultural Preservation district implements the Agricultural Preservation (Rural Landscape-Agricultural Area) policies of the Comprehensive Plan.

§4.4.2 USE REGULATIONS

Uses are allowed in the AG-15 district in accordance with the Use Regulations of Chapter 6.

§4.4.3 DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS

A. DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS TABLE

All residential and nonresidential development in the AG-15 district shall be subject to the following density, intensity and dimensional standards:

AG-15 DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS
MAXIMUM DENSITY 1 dwelling unit per 15 acres
MINIMUM LOT AREA 3 acres
MINIMUM LOT WIDTH 135 feet
MINIMUM SETBACKS
Front/Street Side 50 feet
Interior Side 15 feet
Rear 30 feet
OCRM Critical Line 50 feet
MAXIMUM BUILDING COVER 30% of lot
MAXIMUM HEIGHT 35 feet

B. DEVELOPMENT ALONG CRITICAL LINE

The area of a parcel in the AG-15 district within 1000 feet of the OCRM Critical Line has a Maximum Density of 1 dwelling unit per 3 acres with a minimum lot area of 3 acres. The remaining acreage of the parcel (more than 1000 feet from the OCRM Critical Line) maintains a density of 1 dwelling unit per 15 acres.

§4.4.4 OTHER REGULATIONS

Development in the AG-15 district shall comply with all other applicable regulations of this Ordinance, including the development standards of Chapter 9. All waterfront property subdivided after April 21, 1999 shall be subject to the provisions of the Waterfront Development Standards contained in Article

4.22 of this Chapter.

§4.4.5 ONE TIME SUBDIVISION OF NON-CONFORMING LOT OF RECORD EXISTING PRIOR TO APRIL 21, 1999

A one time subdivision creating one lot from a non-conforming lot of record (lot existing prior to April 21, 1999) shall be allowed, if each lot resulting from the subdivision meets the minimum lot area requirement of the AG-15 Zoning District.



Article 4.5 AG-10 Agricultural Preservation District

§4.5.1 DESCRIPTION

The AG-10, Agricultural Preservation district implements the Agricultural Preservation (Rural Landscape-Agricultural Area) policies of the Comprehensive Plan.

§4.5.2 USE REGULATIONS

Uses are allowed in the AG-10 district in accordance with the Use Regulations of Chapter 6.

§4.5.3 DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS

A. DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS TABLE

All residential and nonresidential development in the AG-10 district shall be subject

AG-10 DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS
MAXIMUM DENSITY 1 dwelling unit per 10 acres
MINIMUM LOT AREA 1 acre
MINIMUM LOT WIDTH 135 feet
MINIMUM SETBACKS
Front/Street Side 50 feet
Interior Side 15 feet
Rear 30 feet
OCRM Critical Line 50 feet
MAXIMUM BUILDING COVER 30% of lot
MAXIMUM HEIGHT 35 feet

B. ACHIEVING HIGHEST DENSITY

In order to achieve the highest allowed density of 1 dwelling unit per 5 acres, a request must be processed through the Planned Development process as designated in Art. 3.5 of this Ordinance.

§4.5.4 OTHER REGULATIONS

Development in the AG-10 district shall comply with all other applicable regulations of this Ordinance, including the development standards of Chapter 9. All waterfront property subdivided after April 21, 1999 shall be subject to the provisions of the Waterfront Development Standards contained in Article

4.22 of this Chapter.

§4.5.5 ONE TIME SUBDIVISION OF NON-CONFORMING LOT OF RECORD EXISTING PRIOR TO APRIL 21, 1999

A one time subdivision creating one lot from a non-conforming lot of record (lot existing prior to April 21, 1999) shall be allowed, if each lot resulting from the subdivision meets the minimum lot area requirement of the AG-10 Zoning District.



Article 4.6 AG-8 Agricultural Preservation District

§4.6.1 DESCRIPTION

The AG-8, Agricultural Preservation district implements the Agricultural Preservation (Rural Landscape-Agricultural Area) and Rural Agricultural (Rural Landscape-Rural Area) policies of the Comprehensive Plan.

§4.6.2 USE REGULATIONS

Uses are allowed in the AG-8 district in accordance with the Use Regulations of Chapter 6.

§4.6.3 DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS

A. DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS TABLE

All residential and nonresidential development in the AG-8 district shall be subject to the following density, intensity and dimensional standards:

AG-8 DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS
MAXIMUM DENSITY 1 dwelling unit per 8 acres
MINIMUM LOT AREA 1 acre
MINIMUM LOT WIDTH 135 feet
MINIMUM SETBACKS
Front/Street Side 50 feet
Interior Side 15 feet
Rear 30 feet
OCRM Critical Line 50 feet
MAXIMUM BUILDING COVER 30% of lot
MAXIMUM HEIGHT 35 feet

B. ACHIEVING HIGHEST DENSITY

In order to achieve the highest allowed density of 1 dwelling unit per 4 acres, a request must be processed through the Planned Development process as designated in Art. 3.5 of this Ordinance.

§4.6.4 OTHER REGULATIONS

Development in the AG-8 district shall comply with all other applicable regulations of this Ordinance, including the development standards of Chapter 9. All waterfront property subdivided after April 21, 1999 shall be subject to the provisions of the Waterfront Development Standards contained in Article

4.22 of this Chapter.

§4.6.5 ONE TIME SUBDIVISION OF NON-CONFORMING LOT OF RECORD EXISTING PRIOR TO APRIL 21, 1999

A one time subdivision creating one lot from a non-conforming lot of record (lot existing prior to April 21, 1999) shall be allowed, if each lot resulting from the subdivision meets the minimum lot area requirement of the AG-8 Zoning District.



Article 4.7 AGR Agricultural / Residential District

§4.7.1 DESCRIPTION

The AGR, Agricultural/Residential district implements the Agricultural Residential (Rural Landscape-Agricultural Area) policies of the Comprehensive Plan. The district is intended for application in all settlement areas.

§4.7.2 USE REGULATIONS

Uses are allowed in the AGR district in accordance with the Use Regulations of Chapter 6.

§4.7.3 DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS

All residential and nonresidential development in the AGR district shall be subject to the following density, intensity and dimensional standards:

AGR DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS
MAXIMUM DENSITY 1 dwelling unit per Acre
MINIMUM LOT AREA 30,000 square feet
MINIMUM LOT WIDTH 100 feet
MINIMUM SETBACKS
Front/Street Side 50 feet
Interior Side 15 feet
Rear 30 feet
OCRM Critical Line 50 feet
MAXIMUM BUILDING COVER 30% of lot
MAXIMUM HEIGHT 35 feet

§4.7.4 OTHER REGULATIONS

Development in the AGR district shall comply with all other applicable regulations of this Ordinance, including the development standards of Chapter 9. All waterfront property subdivided after April 21, 1999 shall be subject to the provisions of the Waterfront Development Standards contained in Article

4.22 of this Chapter.

§4.7.5 ONE TIME SUBDIVISION OF NON-CONFORMING LOT OF RECORD EXISTING PRIOR TO APRIL 21, 1999

A one time subdivision creating one lot from a non-conforming lot of record (lot existing prior to April 21, 1999) shall be allowed, if each lot resulting from the subdivision meets the minimum lot area requirement of the AGR Zoning District.

§4.7.6 SETTLEMENT AREAS

Settlement areas include small older crossroads communities, family lands, typical suburban style subdivisions, frontage lots along local roads, waterfront developments, and vacant land that has been subdivided for residential use but not yet built upon. The criteria for parcels to qualify for inclusion into a “Settlement Areas” are as follows:

  1. Parcel size of 30 acres or less; and
  2. Parcel must be located in an AG-8, AG-10, or AG-25 Zoning Districts or adjacent to lands currently zoned AGR; and
  3. Parcel must be either within 1,000 feet of an existing AGR Zoning District or show the same obvious spatial characteristics of other existing AGR Zoning Districts in the agricultural area; and
  4. A parcel of land may be identified as a Settlement Area as determined by the Planning Director if the property owner can demonstrate by a survey or other legally recorded plats or deeds of their property, as prepared by a registered surveyor in the State of South Carolina that their property has 30 acres or less of high land; and
  5. Tax parcels are not located on Wadmalaw Island.


Article 4.8 RR-3 Rural Residential District

§4.8.1 DESCRIPTION

The RR-3, Rural/Residential district implements the Rural Residential (Rural Landscape-Rural Area) policies of the Comprehensive Plan.

§4.8.2 USE REGULATIONS

Uses are allowed in the RR-3 district in accordance with the Use Regulations of Chapter 6.

§4.8.3 DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS

A. DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS TABLE

All residential and nonresidential development in the RR-3 district shall be subject to the following density, intensity and dimensional standards:

RR-3 DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS
MAXIMUM DENSITY 1 dwelling unit per 3 acres
MINIMUM LOT AREA 30,000 sq. ft.
MINIMUM LOT WIDTH 100 feet
MINIMUM SETBACKS
Front/Street Side 50 feet
Interior Side 15 feet
Rear 30 feet
OCRM Critical Line 50 feet
MAXIMUM BUILDING COVER 30% of lot
MAXIMUM HEIGHT 35 feet

B. ACHIEVING HIGHEST DENSITY

In order to achieve the highest allowed density of one dwelling unit per acre, a request must be processed through the Planned Development process as designated in Art.

3.5 of this Ordinance.

§4.8.4 OTHER REGULATIONS

Development in the RR-3 district shall comply with all other applicable regulations of this Ordinance, including the development standards of Chapter 9. All waterfront property subdivided after April 21, 1999 shall be subject to the provisions of the Waterfront Development Standards contained in Article

4.22 of this Chapter.

§4.8.5 ONE TIME SUBDIVISION OF NON-CONFORMING LOT OF RECORD EXISTING PRIOR TO APRIL 21, 1999

A one time subdivision creating one lot from a non-conforming lot of record (lot existing prior to April 21, 1999) shall be allowed, if each lot resulting from the subdivision meets the minimum lot area of the RR-3 zoning district.



Article 4.9 RR-1 Rural Residential District

§4.9.1 DESCRIPTION

The RR-1, Rural Residential district implements the Rural Residential (Rural Landscape-Rural Area) and Residential/Special Management (Suburban Area) policies of the Comprehensive Plan.

§4.9.2 USE REGULATIONS

Uses are allowed in the RR-1 district in accordance with the Use Regulations of Chapter 6.

§4.9.3 DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS

All residential and nonresidential development in the RR-1 district shall be subject to the following density, intensity and dimensional standards:

RR-1 DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS
MAXIMUM DENSITY 2.75 dwelling units per acre
MINIMUM LOT AREA 14,500 sq. ft. [1]
MINIMUM LOT WIDTH 90 feet
MINIMUM SETBACKS
Front/Street Side 50 feet
Interior Side 15 feet
Rear 30 feet
OCRM Critical Line 50 feet
MAXIMUM BUILDING COVER 30% of lot
MAXIMUM HEIGHT 35 feet

[1] Minimum lot area of 12,500 sq. ft. if water or sewer is available.

§4.9.4 OTHER REGULATIONS

Development in the RR-1district shall comply with all other applicable regulations of this Ordinance, including the development standards of Chapter 9. All waterfront property subdivided after April 21, 1999 shall be subject to the provisions of the Waterfront Development Standards contained in Article

4.22 of this Chapter.

§4.9.5 ONE TIME SUBDIVISION OF NON-CONFORMING LOT OF RECORD EXISTING PRIOR TO APRIL 21, 1999

A one time subdivision creating one lot from a non-conforming lot of record (lot existing prior to April 21, 1999) shall be allowed, if each lot resulting from the subdivision meets the minimum lot area of the RR-1 zoning district.



Article 4.10 RSL Low-Density Suburban Residential

§4.10.1 DESCRIPTION

The RSL, Low-Density Suburban Residential district implements the Residential Low Density (Suburban Area) policies of the Comprehensive Plan.

Chapter 4 Base Zoning Districts §4.10.2 USE REGULATIONS

Uses are allowed in the RSL district in accordance with the Use Regulations of Chapter 6.

§4.10.3 DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS

A. DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS TABLE

All residential and nonresidential development in the RSL district shall be subject to the following density, intensity and dimensional standards:

[1]
70 feet without public water and/or public sewer.
RSL DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS
MAXIMUM DENSITY 4 dwelling units per acre
MINIMUM LOT AREA 8,000 square feet
MINIMUM LOT WIDTH 60 feet [1]
MINIMUM SETBACKS
Front/Street Side [2] 25 feet
Interior Side 5 feet
Rear 15 feet
OCRM Critical Line 35 feet
MAXIMUM BUILDING COVER 30% of lot
MAXIMUM HEIGHT 35 feet

[2] Front/Street Side Setback reductions of 15 feet may be approved by the Planning Director when deemed compatible with existing development patterns or setbacks shown on approved plats.

B. EXISTING NEIGHBORHOOD INFILL DEVELOPMENT

Existing neighborhood infill development shall only apply to subdivisions within the RSL Zoning District involving development within existing neighborhoods and may be approved by the Planning Director when the following conditions are present:

  1. The average lot area of a lot shall be no less than the average lot area of the existing residential neighborhood (excluding multi-family dwelling units) measured within 500 feet of the boundary of the proposed subdivision in which the proposed lot is to be created, and in no case shall be smaller than 6,000 square feet, provided that public water and/or sewer service are available;
  2. The infill development is a total of five acres or less in total gross acreage;
  3. Meets the average lot width to depth ratio contained in this Ordinance; and
  4. Each proposed lot meets the minimum lot width requirements for the RSL Zoning District and the minimum setbacks, buffers, cover and height requirements set forth in the RSL Development Standards.

§4.10.4 OTHER REGULATIONS

Development in the RSL district shall comply with all other applicable regulations of this Ordinance, including the development standards of Chapter 9. All waterfront property subdivided after April 21, 1999 shall be subject to the provisions of the Waterfront Development Standards contained in Art. 4.22 of this chapter.

§4.10.5 ONE TIME SUBDIVISION OF NON-CONFORMING LOT OF RECORD EXISTING PRIOR TO APRIL 21, 1999

A one time subdivision creating one lot from a non-conforming lot of record (lot existing prior to April 21, 1999) shall be allowed, if each lot resulting from the subdivision meets the minimum lot area of the RSL zoning district.



Article 4.11 RSM Moderate-Density Suburban Residential District

§4.11.1 DESCRIPTION

The RSM, Moderate-Density Suburban Residential district implements the Residential Moderate Density (Suburban Area) policies of the Comprehensive Plan.

§4.11.2 USE REGULATIONS

Uses are allowed in the RSM district in accordance with the Use Regulations of Chapter 6.

§4.11.3 DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS

All residential and nonresidential development in the RSM district shall be subject to the following density, intensity and dimensional standards:

RSM DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS
MAXIMUM DENSITY 10 dwelling units per acre
MINIMUM LOT AREA 4,000 square feet
MINIMUM LOT WIDTH 40 feet
MINIMUM SETBACKS
Front/Street Side 25 feet [1]
Interior Side 5 feet
Rear 10 feet
OCRM Critical Line 35 feet
MAXIMUM BUILDING COVER 35% of lot
MAXIMUM HEIGHT 35 feet

[1] Front/Street Side Setback reductions of 15 feet may be approved by the Planning Director when deemed compatible with existing development patterns or setbacks shown on approved plats.

§4.11.4 OTHER REGULATIONS

Development in the RSM district shall comply with all other applicable regulations of this Ordinance, including the development standards of Chapter 9.



Article 4.12 MHS Low-Density Manufactured Home Subdivision District

§4.12.1 DESCRIPTION

The MHS, Low-Density Manufactured Home Subdivision district implements the Residential Low

Density (Suburban Area) policies and the housing policies of the Comprehensive Plan.

§4.12.2 USE REGULATIONS

Uses are allowed in the MHS district in accordance with the Use Regulations of Chapter 6.

§4.12.3 DEVELOPMENT TYPES; DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS

All residential and non-residential uses must follow the density, intensity and dimensional standards contained in Article 4.10, RSL, Low-Density Suburban Residential District.

§4.12.4 OTHER REGULATIONS

Development in the MHS district shall comply with all other applicable regulations of this Ordinance, including the development standards of Chapter 9.

§4.12.5 ONE TIME SUBDIVISION OF NON-CONFORMING LOT OF RECORD EXISTING PRIOR TO APRIL 21, 1999

A one time subdivision creating one lot from a non-conforming lot of record (lot existing prior to April 21, 1999) shall be allowed, if each lot resulting from the subdivision meets the minimum lot area of the RSL zoning district.



Article 4.13 MHP Manufactured Housing Park District

§4.13.1 DESCRIPTION

The MHP, Manufactured Housing Park district implements the Residential Moderate Density (Suburban Area) policies of the Comprehensive Plan. It is primarily intended to accommodate manufactured housing park developments.

§4.13.2 USE REGULATIONS

Uses are allowed in the MHP district in accordance with the Use Regulations of Chapter 6.

§4.13.3 DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS

All development in the MHP district shall be subject to the following density, intensity and dimensional standards:

MHP DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS
MAXIMUM DENSITY 10 dwelling units per acre
MINIMUM PARK AREA 1 acre
MINIMUM SETBACKS
Front/Street Side 25 feet [1]
Interior Side 5 feet
Rear 10 feet
OCRM Critical Line 35 feet
MAXIMUM BUILDING COVER 35% of lot
MAXIMUM HEIGHT 35 feet

[1] Front/Street Side Setback reductions up to 15 feet may be approved by the Planning Director when deemed compatible with existing development patterns or setbacks shown on approved plats.

County of Charleston Zoning and Land Development Regulations [November 20, 2001]

§4.13.4 OTHER REGULATIONS

Development in the MHP district shall comply with all other applicable regulations of this Ordinance, including the development standards of Chapter 9.

§4.13.5 SUPPLEMENTAL DISTRICT STANDARDS

In addition to all other applicable provisions of this ordinance, manufactured housing parks within the MHP district shall be subject to the following standards.

A. AREA PER MANUFACTURED HOUSING UNIT SPACE

There shall be no less than 4,000 square feet of zoning lot area per manufactured housing unit space.

B. SEPARATION OF SERVICE BUILDINGS

Every service building in a manufactured housing park shall be at least 25 feet from the boundary of any other property in any residential or office zoning district. When a property line is on a natural waterway, a property line setback shall not be required.

C. ACCESS ROAD

Each manufactured housing unit space shall abut an access road that is constructed under the Charleston County Road Construction Standards and is not less than 20 feet wide.

D. DRAINAGE PLAN

A drainage plan shall be approved by the Public Works Department prior to the processing of a manufactured housing park development.

E. TEMPORARY, ACCESSORY MANUFACTURED HOUSING PARK

A temporary, accessory manufactured housing park shall be established only in connection with a construction project and shall be discontinued within 60 days after such project is completed. Written approval from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) shall be obtained prior to the issuance of a Zoning Permit.



Article 4.14 OR Residential Office District

§4.14.1 DESCRIPTION

The OR, Residential Office district implements the Commercial (Suburban Area) policies of the

Comprehensive Plan.

§4.14.2 USE REGULATIONS

Uses are allowed in the OR district in accordance with the Use Regulations of Chapter 6.

§4.14.3 DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS

All development in the OR district shall be subject to the following density, intensity and dimensional standards:

OR DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS

6,000 square feet

MINIMUM LOT AREA §4.14.4 OTHER REGULATIONS

OR DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS
MINIMUM LOT WIDTH 50 feet
MINIMUM SETBACKS
Front/Street Side 25 feet
Interior Side 5 feet
Rear 5 feet
OCRM Critical Line 50 feet
MAXIMUM BUILDING COVER 35% of lot
MAXIMUM HEIGHT 35 feet

Development in the OR district shall comply with all other applicable regulations of this Ordinance, including the development standards of Chapter 9.

§4.14.5 SUPPLEMENTAL DISTRICT STANDARDS

In addition to all other applicable provisions of this Ordinance, structures within the OR district shall be subject to the following standards:

A. ARCHITECTURAL CHARACTER

Structures in the OR district shall be compatible with the established architectural character of the neighborhood in which they are located by using a design that is complementary in terms of:

  1. Consistency of roof lines, roof materials and roof colors;
  2. Use of similar proportions in building mass and outdoor spaces;
  3. Similar relationships to the street;
  4. Similar window and door patterns; and
  5. Similar streetscapes including landscaping, light fixtures and other site amenities.

B. BUILDING ORIENTATION

Primary facades and entries shall face the adjacent street.

C. BUILDING MATERIALS

Building materials shall either be similar to the materials already being used in the neighborhood or, if dissimilar materials are being proposed, other characteristics such as scale and proportions, form architectural detailing, and color and texture shall be utilized to ensure that enough similarity exists for the building to be compatible despite the differences in materials.

D. BUILDING COLORS

Color shades shall be used to facilitate blending into the neighborhood and unifying the development with its surroundings. The color shades of building materials shall Residential uses in the OR district shall be subject to the density/intensity and dimensional standards of the RSL district (Article 4.10).

Chapter 4 Base Zoning Districts
draw from the range of color shades found in structures in the immediate area.
§4.14.6 RESIDENTIAL USES


Article 4.15 OG General Office District

§4.15.1 DESCRIPTION

The OG, General Office district implements the Commercial (Suburban Area) policies of the

Comprehensive Plan.

§4.15.2 USE REGULATIONS

Uses are allowed in the OG district in accordance with the Use Regulations of Chapter 6.

§4.15.3 DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS

All development in the OG district shall be subject to the following density, intensity and dimensional standards:

OG DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS
MINIMUM LOT AREA 2,000 square feet
MINIMUM LOT WIDTH 50 feet
MINIMUM SETBACKS
Front/Street Side 25 feet
Interior Side 5 feet
Rear 5 feet
OCRM Critical Line 50 feet
MAXIMUM BUILDING COVER 40% of lot
MAXIMUM HEIGHT 35 feet

§4.15.4 OTHER REGULATIONS

Development in the OG district shall comply with all other applicable regulations of this Ordinance, including the development standards of Chapter 9.



Article 4.16 CN Neighborhood Commercial District

§4.16.1 DESCRIPTION

The CN, Neighborhood Commercial district implements the Commercial (Suburban Area) policies of the Comprehensive Plan.

§4.16.2 USE REGULATIONS

Uses are allowed in the CN district in accordance with the Use Regulations of Chapter 6.

§4.16.3 DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS

All development in the CN district shall be subject to the following density, intensity and dimensional standards:

CN DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS
MINIMUM LOT AREA 4,000 square feet
MINIMUM LOT WIDTH 15 feet
MINIMUM SETBACKS
Front/Street Side 25 feet
Interior Side 10 feet
Rear 10 feet
OCRM Critical Line 50 feet
MAXIMUM BUILDING COVER 25% of lot
MAXIMUM HEIGHT 35 feet

§4.16.4 OTHER REGULATIONS

Development in the CN district shall comply with all other applicable regulations of this Ordinance, including the development standards of Chapter 9.

§4.16.5 SUPPLEMENTAL DISTRICT STANDARDS

In addition to any other applicable provisions of this ordinance, structures in the CN district shall be subject to the following performance standards:

A. FLOOR AREA

All structures, including accessory structures, shall be limited to a maximum of 5,000 square feet gross floor area, provided that structures between 5,000 and 10,000 square feet gross floor area may be approved in accordance with the Special Exception procedures of Article 3.6. In no case shall the total, combined gross floor area of all principal and accessory structures exceed 10,000 square feet.

B. ENCLOSED BUILDINGS

All commercial activities, excluding accessory gasoline outlets and restaurants, shall be operated entirely within enclosed buildings.

C. GASOLINE PUMP NOZZLES

Accessory gasoline pumps shall be limited to a maximum of 4 nozzles, provided that 5 to 8 nozzles may be approved in accordance with the Special Exception procedures of Article 3.6. In no case shall the number of gasoline nozzles exceed 8.



Article 4.17 CT Commercial Transition District

§4.17.1 DESCRIPTION

The CT, Commercial Transition district implements the Commercial (Transition) policies of the

Comprehensive Plan.

§4.17.2 USE REGULATIONS

Uses are allowed in the CT district in accordance with the Use Regulations of Chapter 6.

CT DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS
MINIMUM LOT AREA not designated
MINIMUM LOT WIDTH
Without shared access 200 feet
With shared access 100 feet
MAXIMUM BUILDING COVER
1-199 feet road frontage 3,000 gross sq. ft.
200+ feet road frontage 5,000 gross sq. ft.
MAXIMUM HEIGHT 35 feet

§4.17.4 SIGNS

Signs within the CT district shall comply with the following standards:

STANDARD
Maximum Sign Face Area [square feet] 20
Maximum Sign Height [feet] [1] 6
Maximum Number of Signs per Major Road Frontage [2] 1
Internal Illumination Allowed No

[1] Freestanding signs shall be monument or pedestal type.

[2] When a parcel abuts more than one road classification, signs will be allowed on the road with the higher classification only.

§4.17.5 OPERATING HOURS

All uses within the CT district shall be limited to operating hours between 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.

§4.17.6 RESIDENTIAL USES

Residential uses in the CT district shall be subject to the density/intensity and dimensional standards of the RSL district (Article 4.10).



Article 4.18 CR-1 Rural Commercial District

§4.18.1 DESCRIPTION

The CR-1, Rural Commercial district implements the Commercial (Rural Landscape-Agricultural Area) policies of the Comprehensive Plan.

§4.18.2 USE REGULATIONS

Uses are allowed in the CR-1 district in accordance with the Use Regulations of Chapter 6.

§4.18.3 DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS

All development in the CR-1 district shall be subject to the following density, intensity and dimensional standards:

CR-1 DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS
MINIMUM LOT AREA 40,000 square feet
MINIMUM LOT WIDTH 125 feet
MINIMUM SETBACKS
Front/Street Side 25 feet
Interior Side 15 feet
Rear 25 feet
OCRM Critical Line 50 feet
MAXIMUM BUILDING COVER 35% of lot
MAXIMUM HEIGHT 35 feet

§4.18.4 OTHER REGULATIONS

Development in the CR-1 district shall comply with all other applicable regulations of this Ordinance, including the development standards of Chapter 9.



Article 4.19 CR-2 Rural Commercial District

§4.19.1 DESCRIPTION

The CR-2, Rural Commercial district implements the Commercial (Rural Landscape-Rural Area) policies of the Comprehensive Plan.

§4.19.2 USE REGULATIONS

Uses are allowed in the CR-2 district in accordance with the Use Regulations of Chapter 6.

§4.19.3 DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS

All development in the CR-2 district shall be subject to the following density, intensity and dimensional standards:

CR-2 DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS
MINIMUM LOT AREA 40,000 square feet
MINIMUM LOT WIDTH 125 feet
MINIMUM SETBACKS
Front/Street Side 25 feet
Interior Side 15 feet
Rear 25 feet
OCRM Critical Line 50 feet
MAXIMUM BUILDING COVER 40% of lot
MAXIMUM HEIGHT 35 feet

§4.19.4 OTHER REGULATIONS

Development in the CR-2 district shall comply with all other applicable regulations of this Ordinance, including the development standards of Chapter 9.



Article 4.20 CC Community Commercial District

§4.20.1 DESCRIPTION

The CC, Community Commercial district implements the Commercial (Suburban Area) policies of the

Comprehensive Plan.

§4.20.2 USE REGULATIONS

Uses are allowed in the CC district in accordance with the Use Regulations of Chapter 6.

§4.20.3 DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS

All development in the CC district shall be subject to the following density, intensity and dimensional standards:

CC DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS
MINIMUM LOT AREA 4,000 square feet
MINIMUM LOT WIDTH 15 feet
MINIMUM SETBACKS
Front/Street Side None
Interior Side None
Rear None
OCRM Critical Line 50 feet
MAXIMUM BUILDING COVER 35% of lot
MAXIMUM HEIGHT No Maximum

§4.20.4 OTHER REGULATIONS

Development in the CC district shall comply with all other applicable regulations of this Ordinance, including the development standards of Chapter 9.

§4.20.5 RESIDENTIAL USES

Residential uses in the CC district shall be subject to the density/intensity and dimensional standards of the RSM district (Article 4.11).



Article 4.21 I Industrial District

§4.21.1 DESCRIPTION

The I, Industrial district implements the Industrial (Suburban Area) policies of the Comprehensive Plan.

§4.21.2 USE REGULATIONS

Uses are allowed in the I district in accordance with the Use Regulations of Chapter 6.

§4.21.3 DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS

All development in the I district shall be subject to the following density, intensity and dimensional

I DENSITY/INTENSITY AND DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS
MINIMUM LOT AREA 15,000 square feet
MINIMUM LOT WIDTH 70 feet
MINIMUM SETBACKS
Front/Street Side 50 feet
Interior Side None
Rear None
OCRM Critical Line 50 feet
MAXIMUM BUILDING COVER No Maximum
MAXIMUM HEIGHT No Maximum

§4.21.4 OTHER REGULATIONS

Development in the I district shall comply with all other applicable regulations of this Ordinance, including the development standards of Chapter 9.



Article 4.22 Waterfront Development Standards

The following dimensions have precedence over Base Zoning District standards for subdivision on properties which abut a waterway:

Standard [1] AG 25 AG 15 AG 10 AG 8 AGR RR-3 RR-1 RSL
Min. Lot Area 1 Ac 3 Acs 1 Ac 1 Ac 1 Ac 1 Ac 1/2 Ac 12,000 sq ft
Min. Lot Width (ft) 200 200 175 175 125 125 100 90
Min. Lot Width Average (ft) 250 250 200 200 150 135 125 100
Minimum Buffers/ Setbacks (ft)
OCRM Critical Line Buffer(ft) 35 35 35 35 35 35 35 15
Building Setback from OCRM Critical Line(ft) 50 50 50 50 50 50 50 35

Notes:Ac=Acre # Min=Minimum

[1] Landscape buffer standards specified in Chapter 9 may require greater setbacks.

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