4.1:

Intent.

In order to accomplish the purpose set forth in the Comprehensive Plan and Section 1.2 of this ordinance, the boundaries of the zoning districts are hereby established as shown on the Official Zoning Map of Abbeville County which together with all explanatory matter hereon, is hereby adopted by reference and declared to be a part of this Ordinance. The Official Zoning Map shall be identified by the signature of the County Council Chairman attested by the County Clerk, and bearing the Seal of the County under the words: "Official Zoning Map, Abbeville County, SC," together with the date of adoption of this ordinance. The Official Zoning Map shall be located in the office of the Zoning Administrator or County Planner and shall be the final authority to the current zoning status of land, water areas, buildings, and other structures in the County, notwithstanding any other zoning map purported to be a copy of the Official Zoning Map.

4.2.1:

Intent.

The rural development districts are established to protect the crossroads communities of Abbeville County while continuing to encourage commercial growth. These areas have been historically and are currently the centers for shopping needs and other services for residents of the surrounding areas. A mixture of uses that respects the existing structures, especially those with historic significance, in scale and use is appropriate for this district. The intent of this district is to concentrate multi-use community development in these areas while preserving the surrounding rural environment. This district is designed to maximize the development options available to a property owner or developer.

4.2.2:

General.

A.

Minimum Lot Size: 8,000 square feet.

B.

Maximum Lot Coverage: Building footprint shall not exceed 70 percent of the lot coverage.

C.

Setbacks:

1.

Front:

Residential: 50 feet.

Commercial: 30 feet.

2.

Side:

Residential: 10 feet.

Commercial: 10 feet.

3.

Rear:

Residential: 40 feet.

Commercial: 20 feet.

D.

Maximum Building Height: 35 feet.

E.

Minimum Lot Width: 100 feet Water towers, chimneys, flag poles, masts and aerials are permitted to exceed height limits, provided evidence from appropriate authorities is submitted to the effect that such building or structure will not interfere with any airport approach zones or flight patterns.

4.2.3:

Uses.

A.

Permitted Uses: The following uses shall be permitted in the Rural Development District:

1.

Commercial: The following commercial uses are permitted in the Rural Development District provided that all specified standards are met. Retail business involving the display and sale of merchandise inside stores only is allowed, provided, however, that agricultural products may be displayed or sold outside. Permitted retail businesses specifically include and may be similar to:

a)

Permitted Commercial Use List:

(1)

Antiques store and/or showroom.

(2)

Appliance, furniture, radio, television store and/or repair shop.

(3)

Art supply store.

(4)

Bank, savings and loan associations, personal loan agencies and branches.

(5)

Barber /beauty shop.

(6)

Bicycle and motorcycle repair and sales.

(7)

Book, magazine, newspaper shop.

(8)

Candy Store.

(9)

Clothing store and/or tailor or seamstress services.

(10)

Dry cleaning self service and/or laundry self service facility.

(11)

Drug store or pharmacy.

(12)

Florist shop or gardening shop.

(13)

Fruit, nut and/or vegetable store.

(14)

Gift or curio shop.

(15)

Grocery store and "Country Store" types providing general merchandise.

(16)

Hardware store and/or Farm or Garden Supply Store.

(17)

Hobby and/or toy shop.

(18)

Insurance or Real Estate agency.

(19)

Jewelry or watch repair.

(20)

Locksmith or gunsmith.

(21)

Medical, dental, or chiropractic office, clinic, and/or laboratory.

(22)

Music store and/or record shop.

(23)

Office supply and equipment store.

(24)

Office for government, business, professional, or general purposes.

(25)

Package liquor store.

(26)

Photographic and camera supply and service store.

(27)

Bed and Breakfast facility.

(28)

Restaurant, diner, and/or food service establishment.

(29)

School offering instruction in art, music, dancing, drama or a similar cultural activity.

(30)

Child care center, as provided in Section 3.22.

(31)

Farmer's markets, in which local produce is sold outside.

(32)

Cemetery.

(33)

Nursery/greenhouse.

(34)

Dairy.

(35)

Golf course, miniature golf course, or driving range.

b)

Publicly owned and operated building, facility, or land.

c)

A temporary office and/or storage building used during a project involving construction but not used as a dwelling, with the removal of same within 30 days upon project completion.

d)

Commercial businesses or related activities legally existing at the time of passage of this ordinance.

2.

Single-Family Residential: Single family residential uses are permitted in the Rural Development District, including manufactured/mobile homes. One housing unit per 8,000 sq. ft. lot is allowed.

3.

Multifamily Residential: Attached or detached multi-family residential uses are permitted in the Rural Development District.

(1)

Minimum lot area per housing unit: 0.5 acre.

(2)

Parking Requirement: 2 spaces per unit, plus 1 additional space for each additional bedroom.

4.

Institutional: The following institutional uses are permitted in the Rural Development District:

a)

Use List:

(1)

Church.

(2)

Government Building.

(3)

School (Public/Private).

(4)

Hospital or Medical Clinic.

5.

Utility: Utility uses are permitted in the Rural Development District, provided that all specified standards are met.

6.

Uncovered Storage: Outdoor storage uses are permitted in the Rural Development District, provided that all specified standards are met.

a)

Standards:

(1)

The storage shall be either as an accessory use on the same lot, or a primary use for a lot, provided that the primary business utilizing the storage is located within the Rural Development District.

(2)

Outdoor storage shall not front on the main thoroughfare; outdoor storage cannot include junk or salvage materials.

7.

Mixed Uses: A mixture of the above uses are permitted, provided that these uses meet the specified standards in addition to the following standards:

a)

Standards:

(1)

When residential uses are attached to businesses or institutional uses, or business and residential portions of the building are located on different floors, business/commercial uses shall occupy the floors below the residential uses to preserve a residential atmosphere for the residents above.

B.

Conditional Uses: the following uses shall be permitted on a conditional basis in any Rural Development District:

(1)

Auto accessory store, provided there is no storage of wrecked automobiles or scrapped or salvaged parts on premises.

(2)

Automobile service station, provided operations involving major repairs, body and fender work, and painting are not conducted on the premises; provided all pumps are set back at least twenty-five (25) feet from the right-of-way line of all abutting streets; and provided parking and/or service areas are separated from adjoining residential properties by a suitable planting screen, fence, or wall at least six (6') feet in height above finished grade. No business activities should take place before 6 AM or after 11 PM. Convenience stores attached to auto service stations are also allowed conditionally.

(3)

Contractor's office, provided there is no storage of construction vehicles, equipment, or materials on the premises.

(4)

Meat, fish, and/or poultry shop provided that no slaughtering is permitted.

(5)

Pet shop, provided all animals are housed within principal buildings so that no sound is perceptible beyond the premises; and animal hospitals or veterinary clinics.

(6)

Private or semiprivate club, lodge, union hall, or social center as long as no activities take place before 8 AM or after 12 midnight.

(7)

Automobile sales, as long as the vehicles are in operable condition and are not used for spare parts.

(8)

Home occupations, providing that they are conducted in the principal dwelling unit and that the home occupations meet the required criteria; as listed in section 3.7, "Home Occupations."

(9)

Mini-warehousing facilities, located on a state or federal roadway and not utilized for the manufacture, sale, or service of commercial commodities.

(10)

Outdoor recreation facilities, publicly or privately operated (swimming pool, game courts, riding stables, etc.).

(11)

Free-standing or guyed tower with height not exceeding 360 feet; Child Care Centers (Section 3.16 and 3.22).

(12)

Light Industrial uses of a rural nature, such as sawmills and cabinet shops, as defined by the North American Industry Classification System (NAISC), 2007 edition:

¹ Similar Light Manufacturing facilities, as determined by the Zoning Administrator.

(13)

Other Requirements:

•

Trash containers shall be located in the parking area and shall be screened from the right-of-way.

•

Mechanical equipment at ground level shall be placed on the parking lot side of building and away from buildings on adjacent sites.

•

Main pedestrian access to the building shall be from the street. Secondary access may be from parking areas.

C.

Uses Permitted by Special Exception: Communications Towers, With height exceeding 360 feet (See Section 3.16).

D.

Accessory Uses: Permitted accessory uses and structures shall be limited to the following, and any additional uses and structures the Zoning Administrator finds are similar to those listed in scope, size, and impact and which are otherwise in compliance with this Ordinance:

1.

Residential.

a)

Private greenhouse.

b)

Private swimming pool.

c)

Private tennis or outdoor recreational court.

d)

Storage shed for personal, non-commercial use.

e)

Studios and workshops without outdoor display for personal use.

2.

Commercial.

a)

Storage shed.

3.

Standards: The following standards apply to accessory uses or structures listed as permitted in 1 and 2 above.

a)

Accessory uses or structures shall be located on the same lot as the principal structure or use.

b)

Accessory structures shall be included in the calculation of total lot coverage.

c)

Unless otherwise noted, no accessory use or structure shall be located in a front yard.

d)

No accessory use shall create a nuisance or hazard.

e)

No accessory use shall be established until the principal use is established.

f)

Accessory use shall have the same setback requirements as the principal structure.

E.

Prohibited Uses: The following uses shall be prohibited in the RD District:

1.

This prohibition applies to this district and all other zoning districts of this Ordinance: Any use not listed as permitted, or permitted as a special exception, a conditional use, or an accessory use, is prohibited.

4.2.4:

Parking.

A.

Refer to general parking provisions in Chapter 3, Section 3.13: Parking.

B.

Except for single family residential, parking shall be located to the rear of the building.

C.

Parking areas on adjacent lots should be connected if possible.

4.2.5:

Landscaping. (See Section 3.12: Landscaping.)

4.2.6:

Signage. (See Section 3.11: Signs for additional information.)

A.

Materials employed for construction of sign shall be durable and weather resistant, and all signs shall be maintained in good repair.

B.

Sign Area: Shall be measured by height (A) by length (B) of the smallest rectangle that can be drawn to measure all sign elements. Unless otherwise noted, only one side or face of the same sign shall be used in computing sign area.

C.

Allowed Signs: The applicant may select one (1) of the following choices for a sign type per street frontage:

1.

Wall Sign.

a)

Maximum Size: 20% of the front wall area.

2.

Window Sign.

a)

Maximum Size: 20% of the window area.

3.

Projecting Sign.

a)

Maximum Size: 6 square feet for one side.

b)

Clearance: 10' above ground level.

4.

Awning Sign.

a)

Maximum Size: Individual letters shall not exceed 10" in height. Maximum size 10% of exterior surface of the awning.

b)

Signs, symbols, or designs may be painted or sewn on to any awning.

5.

Ground Sign.

a)

Maximum Size: 100 square feet per sign face.

b)

Maximum Height: 25 feet from finished grade.

(Ord. No. 2022-13, 12-12-2022)

4.3.1:

Intent.

The Restricted Residential District (R-8) is a single-family residential area. Government buildings, schools, churches, and parks are also appropriate uses for the Restricted Residential District. Standards for all uses in the district are designed to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of Abbeville County.

4.3.2:

General.

4.3.3:

Uses.

A.

Permitted Uses: The following uses are permitted in the Restricted Residential District, provided that all specified standards are met.

1.

Single-Family Residential Building - One (1) detached housing unit per lot permitted; mobile homes or manufactured houses are not allowed. However, certified modular homes are allowed.

2.

Civic Building(s).

a)

Use List:

(1)

Park/playground.

(2)

Community Hall or Community Service Center (public utilities, etc.).

(3)

Government Services Building (Library, Post Office, etc.).

3.

Inherently Beneficial Use(s) (See Chapter 2 definition).

a)

Uses including, but not limited to:

(1)

Schools/schools for developmentally disabled.

(2)

Church/other places of worship.

(3)

Group home.

(4)

Public interest housing.

B.

Conditional Uses: Home occupations, as permitted in Section 3.7; Child Care Homes, as permitted in Section 3.22; free-standing Communications Tower less than 100 feet high, per section 3.16.

C.

Uses permitted by Special Exception: Communications Tower over 100 feet.

4.3.4:

Parking.

A.

General: The following parking requirements shall apply within the Restricted Residential district.

1.

Residential: Two (2) parking spaces per dwelling unit.

2.

All other uses: See Section 3.13, Parking.

(Ord. No. 2022-13, 12-12-2022)

4.4.1:

Intent.

Housing development has taken on a variety of forms in Abbeville County, as is clear in the land use element of the comprehensive plan. Manufactured homes, apartments, and single-family site-built dwellings are found throughout each community. The objective of this classification is to permit a variety of densities and dwellings to exist together and allow available land suitable for residential development to be used for its most productive use.

4.4.2:

General.

4.4.3:

Uses.

A.

Permitted Uses: The following uses are permitted in the General Residential district, provided that all specified standards are met.

1.

Single Family Residence - One (1) dwelling unit per lot permitted.

2.

Small Multifamily Residential Building(s).

a)

Up to four (4) dwelling units per lot permitted provided that lot size meets the minimum lot area/unit listed in the general requirements. Townhouses and condominiums would be part of this district.

b)

Units may be attached or detached.

3.

Small Office or Commercial Uses(s).

a)

Use List:

(1)

Home occupations - A home occupation may be permitted in the GR district, provided that such occupation meets the terms of Section 3.7: Home Occupations.

(2)

Child care homes, as provided in Section 3.22.

b)

Sign: See Section 3.11.8(D).

4.

Civic Building(s).

a)

Use List:

(1)

School.

(2)

Church.

(3)

Park/playground.

(4)

Community Hall or Community Service Center (public utilities, etc.).

(5)

Government Services Building (Library, Post Office, etc.).

5.

Inherently Beneficial Use(s) (See Chapter 2 definition).

a)

Uses including, but not limited to:

(1)

Schools/schools for developmentally disabled.

(2)

Church/other places of worship.

(3)

Group home.

(4)

Public interest housing.

6.

Mobile or Manufactured Home(s).

a)

Manufactured homes and mobile homes shall be limited to residential use.

b)

Only one (1) manufactured or mobile home is permitted per lot, provided that it meets the following standards: (NOTE: These standards do not apply to non-conforming mobile home parks.)

(1)

A manufactured home must bear a seal certifying that it was built to HUD standards for mobile homes adopted in 1976.

(2)

Exterior siding: Wood, hardboard, vinyl, brick, or aluminum and shall be comparable in composition, appearance, and durability to the exterior siding commonly used in standard residential construction.

(3)

Roofing Material: Type of shingle or roofing material that is commonly used in standard residential construction.

(4)

Minimum Roof Pitch: 3' X 12' roof pitch, or the standard of each manufacturer's equivalent to a 3' X 12' roof pitch.

(5)

Skirting: Curtain walls, continuous except for ventilation and access, shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions. Curtain walls shall be secured to assure stability, and to minimize vibration and susceptibility to wind damage. Access openings, not less than 18 inches in any dimension and not less than three square feet in area, shall be provided so that water supply and sewer drain connections are accessible for inspection. Materials designed for curtain walls may be used, including, but not limited to, vinyl, treated wood, corrosion-resistant metal, or masonry products.

(6)

The tongue, axles, transporting lights, and removable towing apparatus shall be removed after placement on the lot and before occupancy. Footings shall be at least 144 square inches of solid concrete, block, or other materials approved by the South Carolina Manufactured Housing Board.

(7)

Stairs, porches, entrance platforms, ramps and other means of entrance and exit to and from the home shall be installed or constructed in a manner commonly used in standard residential construction and attached firmly to the primary structure and anchored securely to the ground. Porches at least 3 feet by 3 feet shall be constructed at both the front and back entrances with appropriate handrail.

(8)

Suitable tie-down or anchoring devices shall be installed. Supports shall be installed directly under the main frame (chassis) of the manufactured home.

(9)

Follow appropriate county, state and federal standards such as South Carolina's Section 79-42, Manufactured Home Installation Requirements, and Section 79-43, Manufactured Home Minimum Habitability Requirements.

B.

Conditional Uses:

1.

Home occupations, per Section 3.7;

2.

Child Care Home per Section 3.22;

3.

Free-standing Communications Towers under 100 feet high, per Section 3.16;

4.

(ADDED) Domesticated chickens, pigeons, doves, or quail are allowed under the following conditions:

(i)

No more than six (6) total birds of any species or combination thereof shall be allowed on lots equal to or less than one (1) acre.

(ii)

Must be an accessory to the principal building.

(iii)

Must be located inside an enclosure a minimum of twenty-five (25) feet from any lot line at all times.

(iv)

Must not be used for the purpose of selling fowl, eggs, or meat.

(v)

Roosters are discouraged because of noise issues and shall be required to be removed from the property if causing a nuisance.

5.

(ADDED) Livestock such as horses, cows, goats, donkeys, mules, and ponies may be approved by the zoning administrator on lots which contain five (5) or more acres, are rural in nature, are located in an area with other similar size lots and when there is no foreseen adverse impact on the community. No combination of lots smaller than five (5) acres may be purchased and combined for the purpose of keeping livestock. All feedlots, corrals, manure pile, feed, and bedding must meet the requirements of section 3.8.1 B and C of this ordinance. No swine are allowed in this district.

C.

Uses Permitted by Special Exception:

Temporary Accessory Residential Uses: Communications Towers exceeding 100 feet in height (See sections 3.4.6 and 3.16).

4.4.4:

Parking. As required in Section 3.13. Parking.

(Ord. No. 2014-02, 4-14-2014; Ord. No. 2022-13, 12-12-2022)

4.5.1:

Intent.

The intent of this Manufactured Housing District is to provide a sound and healthy residential environment sufficient to meet the unique needs of inhabitants living in manufactured housing, to protect manufactured housing parks from encroachment by incompatible uses, and to allow for the consolidation of manufactured housing into parks.

4.5.2:

General.

A.

Setbacks.

B.

Park Plan.

A site plan shall be submitted with each MH rezoning request indicating the general Circulation pattern, layout and size of spaces, and general site dimensions to assist the Planning Commission and County Council to make a decision. Mobile home parks permitted in MH Districts shall conform to the following requirements:

1.

The park shall be no less than seven (7) acres in size, and located on a well drained site, properly graded to insure rapid drainage and freedom from stagnant pools of water.

2.

No mobile home park shall contain more than seven (7) mobile home units per acre.

3.

Each independent mobile home space shall consist of not less than 5,000 square feet of area, each space to be at least 100 feet wide and clearly defined.

4.

Each mobile home park shall have a minimum total area of twenty-five hundred (2500) square feet set aside for common recreational open space, or at least 100 square feet of space set aside for each mobile home lot, whichever is greater.

5.

A mobile home park must conform to the regulations of the State Department of Health and Environmental Control and other appropriate agencies, which shall advise the Planning Commission of its findings prior to the Commission's recommendation on the proposal. The Planning Commission shall be prohibited from making a favorable recommendation unless DHEC determines that all pertinent local and state codes can or will be met by the applicants.

6.

No manufactured home shall have direct access to a public street or roadway.

4.5.3:

Uses.

A.

Permitted Uses: The following uses are permitted in the Manufactured Housing district provided that all specified standards are met.

1.

Single Family Residential Building - One (1) housing unit per lot permitted.

2.

Small Multifamily Residential Building(s).

a)

Up to four (4) units per lot permitted, provided that lot size meets the minimum lot area/unit listed in the general requirements.

b)

No manufactured housing is allowed to be used as a multifamily residential building.

3.

Small Office or Commercial Building(s).

a)

Office and commercial uses cannot occupy more than 2,000 square feet gross floor area, exclusive of any residential living quarters.

b)

Setbacks shall be consistent with neighboring property.

c)

No small office or commercial establishments are allowed to be permanently housed in a manufactured housing unit.

4.

Civic Building(s).

a)

Use List:

(1)

School.

(2)

Church.

(3)

Park/playground.

(4)

Community Hall.

(5)

Governmental Services Building.

5.

Mobile or Manufactured Home(s).

a)

Only one (1) manufactured home is permitted per lot, provided that it meets the following standards:

(1)

A manufactured home must bear a seal certifying that it was built to HUD standards for mobile homes, adopted on June 15, 1976.

(2)

Additional requirements, as listed in Section 4.4.3: A.5 of this ordinance.

B.

Conditional Uses:

a)

Home occupations - A home occupation shall be permitted in the MH district, provided that such occupation complies with Section 3.7: Home Occupations.

b)

Child care homes, as provided in Section 3.22.

4.5.4:

Parking.

A.

General: The following parking requirements shall apply within the Manufactured Housing District:

1.

Office/Service: Three (3) parking spaces per 1,000 square feet of floor area.

2.

Residential: Two (2) parking spaces per dwelling unit.

B.

Parking: Parking for non-residential uses shall be located to the side and rear of the building. This requirement may be waived by the Zoning Administrator if the use and situation requires parking to be placed to the front of the building, provided that this shall not adversely affect the residential nature of the neighborhood.

C.

Landscape Buffers (For non-residential uses):

1.

Required Landscaping Area: At least 5 feet in depth shall be located between the abutting property lines and the parking, loading, or other vehicular use area, except where permitted driveway openings are to be provided.

2.

Other Requirements:

a)

All portions of the landscaping area not planted with shrubs and trees shall be planted in grass and/or with some other vegetative ground cover; and

b)

Parked vehicles may overhang a landscaped area no more than one foot (1'), provided curbing or other wheel stops are installed to insure no greater overhang or penetration of the landscaped islands. Landscaping, walls, fences, and earthberms shall be so located as to prevent their damage and/or destruction by overhanging vehicles.

4.5.5:

Mobile Home Subdivision.

A.

Sale of Spaces. If spaces for mobile homes are to be offered for sale, lots proposed for sale must be recorded according to the requirements of Abbeville County. Application for subdivisions may be processed in conjunction with the administrative review procedure required under this Ordinance to obtain authorization of its development within an MH Zoning District. Whether the spaces are proposed for sale, rental or lease, the design of the park shall comply with the standards set forth in this section.

4.6.1:

Intent.

Businesses in this district, due to the heavy auto traffic along the highways, will be primarily auto-dependent businesses. This district represents the first impression, and often the only impression, to which visitors to Abbeville County are exposed. Because of this, the intent of these provisions is to create business districts that represent the County and its rural character. In addition, these provisions are intended to facilitate convenient access, minimize traffic congestion, and reduce visual clutter along the highways. Uses in this District should develop as commercial centers.

4.6.2:

General.

A.

Minimum Lot Size: 10,000 square feet.

B.

Maximum Lot Coverage: Building area shall not exceed 50% of the lot coverage.

C.

Minimum Street Frontage: None.

D.

Maximum Height: 60 feet.

E.

Setbacks:

1.

Front: 20 feet min.

2.

Side: 10 feet min.

3.

Rear: 20 feet min.

F.

Entranceways and Awnings: Permitted to encroach a maximum of 6 feet into front setbacks. Corner lots may encroach up to 6 feet on both the front and street-side setback.

G.

Trash Containers: Located in the parking area and screened from the right-of-way.

H.

Mechanical Equipment at Ground Level: Shall be placed on the parking lot side of building, away from buildings on adjacent sites, and screened from view of public streets and residential uses.

4.6.3:

Uses.

A.

Permitted Uses: The following uses shall be permitted in the GC district.

1.

General Retail or wholesale business involving the sale of merchandise on the premises;

2.

Personal services and repair shops;

3.

Business services involving the rendering of personal services other than an automobile garage or automobile carwash;

4.

Office uses;

5.

Entertainment uses (e.g., Theaters, Bowling Alleys, Miniature Golf);

6.

Civic uses, club, lodge, or social center;

7.

Church or religious institutions;

8.

Hotel, bed and breakfast inns, and motels;

9.

Eating or drinking establishments;

10.

Public utility installation or sub-installation, including water towers;

11.

A mini-warehouse or self-service storage facility, provided such structure is located not less than one hundred (100) feet from any residential structure or residentially zoned district;

12.

Warehouse/distribution centers;

13.

Day care centers, child care centers, as defined in Section 3.22;

14.

Flea markets;

15.

Nursing care facility.

B.

Conditional Uses: The following uses shall be permitted on a conditional basis in any General Commercial District:

(1)

Auto accessory store, provided there is no storage of wrecked automobiles or scrapped or salvaged parts on premises.

(2)

Automobile service station, including operations involving major repairs, body and fender work, and painting so long as these services are conducted inside a building; provided that all pumps are set back at least twenty-five (25) feet from the right-of-way line of all abutting streets; and provided parking and/or service areas are separated from adjoining residential properties by a suitable planting screen, fence or wall at least six (6') feet in height, but not more than eight (8) feet in height, above finished grade. Also, provided that there is no storage of wrecked vehicles, scrap or salvage vehicles, and no more than three (3) vehicles in an outside parking area may be kept and no individual vehicle may remain for more than 30 days.

(3)

Automobile carwash, provided off-street paved parking area of not less than two (2) parking spaces per bay (not including the bay), and no safety hazard or impediment to traffic movement is created by the operation of such an establishment. Entrances and exits to the carwash facility shall not face any residentially zoned property.

(4)

Contractor's office, provided there is no outdoor storage of construction equipment, or materials on the premises. A contractor's office shall be removed within one (1) year, unless an extension is approved by the Zoning Administrator.

(5)

Meat, fish, and/or poultry shop, provided, that no slaughtering be permitted.

(6)

Animal hospital, veterinary clinic or kennel, provided no structure shall be closer than two hundred (200) feet to any residential zoning perimeter or residential dwelling, all boarding arrangements are maintained within the structure, and such noise from the use of outside runs or exercise areas is kept to a minimum.

(7)

A solid waste transfer facility, site and accessory uses, including a recycling center, provided such facility is one hundred (100) feet or greater from any residential building, and is completely screened from view of adjacent residential properties.

(8)

Manufactured home sales, based on the requirements in Chapter 3 of this ordinance.

(9)

Automobile sales, based on the requirements in Chapter 3 of this ordinance.

(10)

Agricultural and construction equipment sales and rental, based on the requirements in Chapter 3 of this ordinance.

(11)

Mixed uses as allowed in the RD district (See 4.2.3. A.7.).

(12)

Free-standing or guyed Communications Tower with height not exceeding 180 feet.

C.

Uses Permitted by Special Exception: Communications Towers exceeding 180 feet in height.

D.

Accessory Uses: The following uses shall be permitted in the General Commercial District as an accessory to the primary use.

1.

Outdoor storage, provided it is screened by a fence, as determined by the Zoning Administrator.

2.

Outdoor sales of a temporary nature.

4.6.4:

Parking.

A.

General Requirements: See general parking requirements in Section 3.13 and Section 6.1.10.

B.

Required Loading Spaces: See Section 6.1.16.

C.

Stacking Requirements.

Five (5) stacking spaces per drive-though window shall be provided at businesses with drive-through facilities. These spaces shall be located off the public right-of-way and shall not conflict with the parking and circulation in the balance of the required parking area. Stacking spaces shall be a minimum of twenty-four (24) feet long and nine (9) feet wide.

4.6.5:

Landscaping.

A.

General Requirements.

1.

Additions, expansions, or changes which increase a business by 50% of the gross floor area shall be in compliance with the landscaping requirements.

2.

If more than one landscaping/buffering requirement overlaps, the more stringent regulation shall be applied.

3.

See landscaping requirements in Chapter 3 Section 3.12: Landscaping.

B.

Requirements for Parking Areas.

1.

Peripheral.

a)

Required Landscaping Area: at least 5 feet in depth, shall be located between the abutting property lines and the parking, loading, or other vehicular use area, except where permitted driveway openings are to be provided.

b)

Other Requirements:

(1)

All portions of the landscaping area not planted with shrubs and trees or covered by a wall or fence barrier shall be planted in grass and/or with some other ground cover, such as bark, pine needles, stone, permeable block; and

(2)

Parked vehicles may overhang a landscaped area no more than two and one-half feet (2½'), provided curbing or other wheel stops are installed to insure no greater overhang or penetration of the landscaped islands. Landscaping, walls, fences, and earthberms shall be located to prevent their damage and/or destruction by overhanging vehicles.

C.

Requirements for Front Setback.

1.

Required Landscaping Area:

a)

Minimum Depth: 20 feet; 6 shrubs per 500 square feet, or suitable alternative.

b)

Maximum area of impervious surface within the front required setback shall be 15%, exclusive of curbcuts, walkways, fountains, etc.

D.

Requirements For Boundaries Adjacent To Any Residential Zoning District or Existing Residential Uses in the General Commercial District.

1.

Required Buffer Area:

a)

Minimum Width: 20 feet; 50 evergreen shrubs per 100 linear feet, or suitable alternative.

2.

Alternative 1: Buffering Requirements reduced by 25% (5 feet):

a)

Minimum width may be reduced by 25% or five (5) feet with use of a landscaped earth berm.

b)

Berms shall be constructed within the property boundary meeting the following requirements:

(1)

Minimum Height: 2 ft.

(2)

Minimum Crown Width: 2 ft.

(3)

Minimum Slope: 2:1.

3.

Alternative 2: Buffering Requirements reduced by 50% (10 feet):

a)

Minimum width may be reduced by 50% or ten (10) feet and required number of shrubs reduced to 30 shrubs per 100 linear feet with use of landscaped wall or fence.

b)

Wall shall be solid and meet the standards for walls and fences set forth in Section 3.3.

c)

Maximum wall height: 6 ft.

d)

Shrubs shall reach⅓ of the height of the wall within 3 years.

4.6.6:

Signage.

A.

Intent.

The purposes of these sign regulations are: to encourage the effective use of signs as a means of communication; to maintain and enhance the aesthetic environment; to increase the County's ability to attract sources of economic development and growth; to improve pedestrian and traffic safety; to minimize the possible adverse effect of signs on nearby public and private property; and to enable the fair and consistent enforcement of these sign regulations.

B.

Refer to section 3.11: Signage for general sign requirements.

C.

No sign, or part thereof, may be altered, constructed, changed, converted, enlarged, or moved unless in conformity with the following requirements.

D.

Sign Area: Shall be measured by height (A) by length (B) of the smallest rectangle that can be drawn to measure all sign elements. Unless otherwise noted, only one side or face of the same sign shall be used in computing sign area.

E.

Allowed Signs: The applicant may select any or all of the following six (6) choices for a sign type per street frontage:

1.

Wall Sign.

a)

Maximum Size: 1 square foot per linear foot of the building wall on which the sign is to be placed.

2.

Window Sign.

a)

Maximum Size: 20% of the window area

3.

Projecting Sign.

a)

Maximum Size: 16 square feet for one side

b)

Maximum Height: No projecting sign shall extend above the roof line.

c)

Clearance: 8' above ground level

d)

Maximum 8' horizontal projection

4.

Awning Sign.

a)

Maximum Size: 15% of exterior surface of the awning.

b)

Signs, symbols, or designs may be painted or sewn onto the awning.

5.

Freestanding Sign.

a)

Maximum ground-mounted size: 200 square feet total for all free-standing signs on the parcel.

b)

Maximum Height: 30 feet.

c)

Setback: No freestanding sign shall be closer than five (5) feet to an exterior property line.

d)

No more than one (1) freestanding sign shall be allowed per one hundred (100) linear feet of road frontage.

6.

Directional Sign.

a)

The parcel shall contain no more than one (1) directional sign per entrance or exit. Directional signs on the interior of the property are at the discretion of the property owner.

b)

The maximum sign area shall not exceed one (1) foot by two (2) feet for each identified activity, business, firm, or tenant.

c)

The directional sign may take the form of any sign permitted in the zoning district provided that such sign shall comply with its applicable specification.

d)

No company logos or business names are allowed on directional signs.

7.

Monument Sign.

a)

Maximum size is 28 square feet.

F.

Prohibited Signs:

1.

Moving signs of any type, such as flashing, blinking or "scrolling text" signs (See Section 3.11).

2.

Signs projecting above the roof line.

3.

Any sign not listed as being permitted is prohibited.

G.

Criteria for Bonus Sign Area.

To encourage design excellence, the maximum sign areas for the General Commercial District may be increased by the percentages as provided herein. A separate bonus is granted for compliance with each of the criteria and the area is cumulative, but the percentage increase is based on the original sign area limitation

1.

Wall sign which consists of individual letters or words mounted directly on the building surface: 15% increase permitted.

2.

Coordinated signs in shopping centers or any three consecutive separate establishments, all the lettering and background is uniform in style and color: 10% increase permitted.

3.

Gas stations that incorporate the price information into the main identification sign face: 10% increase permitted.

4.

Sign is not internally illuminated (other than non-flashing neon): 15% increase permitted.

4.7.1:

Intent.

The purpose of the light industrial district is to accommodate a mix of similar and compatible light industrial uses, industrial-related business uses, and related commercial uses. The Light Industrial District shall have limited traffic and aesthetic impacts on surrounding properties, supporting public facilities, and utilities. The Light Industrial District is intended to generate development through the use of creative design which will enhance the character of the surrounding area.

4.7.2:

General.

A.

Minimum Lot Size: 1 acre.

B.

Maximum Lot Coverage: Building footprint shall not exceed 70% of the lot coverage.

C.

Maximum Height: 45 feet.

D.

Setbacks:

1.

Front: 20 feet minimum.

2.

Side: 10 feet minimum.

3.

Rear: 20 feet minimum.

E.

Maximum % Impervious Surface: 80%.

F.

Trash containers shall be located in the parking area and shall be screened from the right-of-way. The containers shall be placed on concrete pads of sufficient size.

G.

Mechanical equipment at ground level shall be placed on the parking lot side of building, away from buildings on adjacent sites, and screened from view of public streets and residential uses.

H.

A minimum of 10% of the total lot area shall be landscaped with appropriate vegetative cover.

4.7.3:

Uses.

A.

Permitted Uses: The following uses shall be permitted in the Light Industrial District:

1.

Wholesale business.

2.

Research or experimental laboratories certified by SCDHEC.

3.

Public utility installation, and management of facilities thereof.

4.

Office building for governmental, business, professional, or general purposes.

5.

Agricultural or horticultural nursery.

6.

Any industrial use, plus operations incidental to such use, which involves manufacturing, processing, assembly, and storage operations; provided said manufacturing, processing, assembly, or storage has no open storage of junk or salvage materials, and any noise, vibration, smoke, gas, fume, odor, dust, fire hazard, dangerous radiation or other injurious or obnoxious conditions related to the operation are not sufficient to create a nuisance beyond the premises, as determined by the Zoning Administrator.

B.

Conditional Uses: The following uses shall be permitted on a conditional basis in any Light Industrial District:

(a)

Warehouse or other storage facility, provided that there is no open storage of junk or salvage materials of any type in conjunction with the operation.

(b)

Wholesale business outlet, provided there is no open storage of junk or salvage materials of any type in conjunction with the operation.

(c)

Gas stations with repair service or garage/shop provided that all pumps are set back at least 25 feet from the right-of-way line of any street; there is no permanent storage of junk vehicles and no more than ten cars with current licenses and tags being repaired, which are temporarily parked outside at any one time; and no single vehicle can be parked for more than 30 days.

(d)

Animal hospital and/or boarding facility provided all boarding arrangements are maintained within a building and no noise connected with the operation of the facility exceeds DHEC standards beyond the premises.

(e)

Any structure incidental to a permitted agricultural or horticultural use, provided that such related dwellings are occupied only by persons employed directly on the premises.

(f)

Manufactured home sales based on the requirements of Chapter 3 of this ordinance.

(g)

Public building, facility, or land other than a school, clinic, playground, hospital, clinic or care home.

(h)

Agricultural and construction equipment sales or rental, based on the requirements of Chapter 3 of this ordinance.

(i)

Telecommunications towers not exceeding 360 feet in height based on the requirements in Chapter 3 of this ordinance.

(j)

Day Care Centers and Child Care Centers per Section 3.22.

B.[C.]

Uses permitted by Special Exception: Communications Towers exceeding 360 feet in height.

C.[D.]

Accessory Uses: The following uses shall be permitted in the Light Industrial District as an accessory to the primary use. These uses shall meet minimum setbacks.

1.

Outdoor storage, screened by an opaque fence. No outdoor storage in front or side yards.

2.

Outdoor sales.

D.[E.]

Other Conditional Uses: The following uses shall be permitted in the Light Industrial District as a conditional use, provided that the standards provided are met.

1.

Sexually-oriented businesses.

a)

Findings of Fact:

(1)

Although there are no known sexually oriented businesses currently operating in Abbeville County, it is possible, and probable, that at some point one or more would desire to locate in Abbeville County, and it is in the interests of the health, safety, and welfare of the patrons of such businesses, as well as the citizens of Abbeville County, to provide certain minimum standards and regulations for sexually-oriented businesses, as well as the operators and employees of such businesses.

(2)

Sexually-oriented businesses generate secondary effects which are detrimental to the public health, safety, and welfare. Additionally, sexually-oriented businesses are frequently used for unlawful sexual activities, including public sexual indecency, prostitution, and sexual encounters of a casual nature. Such businesses are of particular concern to the community when they are located in close proximity to each other, or close to schools, churches or parks and playgrounds.

(3)

The concern over sexually transmitted diseases is a legitimate health concern of Abbeville County which demands reasonable regulation of these businesses in order to protect the health and well-being of our citizens.

(4)

The location of sexually-oriented businesses close to residential areas diminishes property values and leads to conditions that give rise to crime in residential neighborhoods. Many studies performed in other communities indicate conclusively that property crimes and sexual crimes increase significantly in neighborhoods in which such a business is located.

(5)

It is not the intent of this section to suppress any speech activities protected by the First Amendment or to place any impermissible burden on any constitutionally protected expression or expressive conduct by the enactment or enforcement of this Ordinance. Rather, it is the intent of Abbeville County Council to enact a "content neutral regulation" which addresses the secondary effects of sexually oriented businesses.

(6)

The Abbeville County ordinance (97-2, as amended) dealing with adult uses should be consulted for further detail of county policy on this issue regarding permitting and licensing requirements.

(7)

No such use shall be located within three thousand (3,000) feet of a church, school, residential use, hospital, or public library.

b)

Signage:

(1)

Business shall not display a sign or advertising visible from public streets or sidewalks, or outside the premises, that is photographic, pictorial, or sexually graphic.

c)

Required Landscaped Buffers From Other Zoned Areas and Business:

(1)

Required Buffer Area:

(a)

Minimum Width: 20 feet.

(2)

Required Buffering Materials:

(a)

Buffering materials shall provide an opaque buffer to create a strong impression of a spatial separation and to preclude visual contact.

(3)

Berms shall be constructed within the property boundaries meeting the following requirements:

(a)

Minimum Height: 2 feet.

(b)

Minimum Crown Width: 2 feet.

(c)

Minimum Slope: 2:1.

(4)

Solid walls shall be constructed and meet the standards for walls and fences, with a minimum wall height of six (6) feet.

d)

No such use shall be within 1,500 feet of another sexually-oriented business.

4.7.4:

Parking.

A.

General Requirements: See general parking requirements in Section 3.13 and Section 6.1.10.

B.

Required Loading Spaces: See Section 6.1.16.

4.7.5:

Landscaping.

A.

General Requirements.

See landscaping requirements in Chapter 4, Section 4.6.5: Landscaping.

B.

Requirements For Boundaries Adjacent To Any Residential Zoning District and Existing Residential Uses in the Light Industrial District.

1.

Required Buffer Area:

a.

Minimum Depth: 30 feet

2.

Required Buffering Material: See Section 4.6.5: Landscaping for additional requirements and options.

4.7.6:

Signage.

A.

Intent.

The purposes of these sign regulations are: to encourage the effective use of signs as a means of communication; to maintain and enhance the aesthetic environment; to increase the County's ability to attract sources of economic development and growth; to improve pedestrian and traffic safety; to minimize the possible adverse effect of signs on nearby public and private property; and to enable the fair and consistent enforcement of these sign regulations.

B.

Refer to section 3.11: Signage for general sign requirements, especially 3.11.6.

C.

No sign, or part thereof, may be altered, constructed, changed, converted, enlarged, or moved unless in conformity with the following requirements.

D.

Sign Area: Shall be measured by height (A) by length (B) of the smallest rectangle that can be drawn to measure all sign elements. Unless otherwise noted, only one side or face of the same sign shall be used in computing sign area.

E.

Allowed Signs: The applicant may select two (2) of the following six (6) choices for a sign type per street frontage:

1.

Wall Sign.

a)

Maximum Size: 1 square foot per linear foot of the building wall on which the sign is to be placed.

2.

Window Sign.

a)

Maximum Size: 20% of the window area.

3.

Projecting Sign.

a)

Maximum Size: 16 square feet for one side.

b)

Maximum Height: No projecting sign shall extend above the roof line.

c)

Clearance: 8' above ground level.

d)

Maximum 8' horizontal projection.

4.

Awning Sign.

a)

Maximum Size: 15% of exterior surface of the awning.

b)

Signs, symbols, or designs may be painted or sewn onto the awning.

5.

Freestanding Sign.

a)

Maximum Size: 200 square feet of total sign face per parcel.

b)

Maximum Height: 30 feet.

c)

Setback: No freestanding sign shall be closer than five (5) feet to an exterior property line.

d)

No more than one (1) freestanding sign shall be allowed per parcel.

6.

Directory Sign.

a)

The parcel shall contain no more than one (1) directory sign.

b)

The maximum sign area shall not exceed three (3) inches by fifteen (15) inches for each identified activity, business, firm, or tenant.

c)

The directory sign may take the form of any sign permitted in the zoning district provided that such sign shall comply with its applicable specification. If the directory sign is a freestanding sign, no other freestanding sign shall be located on the parcel.

F.

Prohibited Signs:

1.

Moving signs of any type.

2.

Signs projecting above the roof line.

3.

Any sign not listed as being allowed is prohibited.

4.8.1:

Intent.

The purpose of the basic industrial district is to accommodate industrial businesses within the County. The Industrial district shall have limited traffic and aesthetic impacts on surrounding properties and on supporting public facilities and utilities. The Basic Industrial District is intended to generate development through the use of industrial parks and clustering.

4.8.2:

General.

A.

Minimum Lot Size: 1 acre.

B.

Maximum Height: 45 feet.

C.

Setbacks:

1.

Adjacent to roads: No building, outdoor storage, areas for collection of refuse, or loading area shall be permitted closer than 50 feet to the right-of-way of any road. No parking, outdoor storage, areas for collection of refuse, or loading space shall be permitted in areas between buildings and streets where such uses are visible from the road.

2.

Adjacent to Agricultural and Residential Uses/Districts: No buildings, outdoor storage, areas for collection of refuse, or loading area shall be permitted closer than 100 feet to any agricultural district or any existing or zoned residential district. No parking shall be permitted closer than 50 feet to any such districts and uses.

3.

Adjacent to Other Nonresidential Districts: 15 feet for minimum for buildings, parking, outdoor storage, and loading areas.

D.

Minimum Distance Between Buildings: 30 feet.

E.

Maximum % Impervious Surface: 80%.

F.

Trash containers shall be located to the side or rear of the main building and shall be screened from the right-of-way. The trash containers shall be placed on concrete pads of sufficient size.

G.

Mechanical equipment at ground level should be placed to the side or rear of the main building, away from buildings on adjacent sites, and screened from view of public streets and residential uses.

H.

A minimum of 10% of the total lot area shall be landscaped with appropriate vegetative cover.

4.8.3:

Uses.

A.

Permitted Uses: The following uses shall be permitted in the Basic Industrial District

1.

Wholesale and retail businesses, as defined.

2.

All uses allowed in the Light Industrial District, excluding sexually-oriented businesses.

3.

Business services.

4.

Personal services.

5.

Manufacturing services and operations.

6.

Industrial production.

B.

Conditional Uses:

1.

Day Care Centers, Child Care Centers, and industries using outdoor storage of junk or salvage materials.

2.

Communication Towers not exceeding 360 feet in height.

C.

Uses Allowed by Special Exception:

1.

Communications Towers exceeding 360 feet in height.

D.

Accessory Uses: The following uses shall be permitted in the Basic Industrial District as an accessory to the primary use.

1.

Outdoor storage, provided that the storage is screened from public view by an opaque fence.

2.

Outdoor sales of a temporary nature.

4.8.4:

Parking.

A.

General Requirements: See general parking requirements in Section 3.13 and Section 6.1.10. See general loading requirements in Section 6.1.16.

4.8.5:

Landscaping.

A.

General Requirements.

See landscaping requirements in Section 4.6.5 Landscaping.

B.

Requirements for Parking Areas.

1.

Peripheral.

a)

Required Landscaping Area: at least 15' in depth shall be located between the abutting property lines and the parking, loading, or other vehicular use area, except where permitted driveway openings area to be provided.

b)

Other Requirements:

(1)

All portions of the landscaping area not planted with shrubs and trees or covered by a wall or fence barrier shall be planted in grass and/or with some other ground cover; and

(2)

Parked vehicles may overhang a landscaped area no more than two and one-half feet (2½'), provided curbing or other wheel stops are installed to insure no greater overhang or penetration of the landscaped islands. Landscaping, walls, fences, and earthberms shall be located to prevent their damage and/or destruction by overhanging vehicles.

2.

Interior.

a)

Other Requirements:

(1)

All portions of the landscaping area not planted with trees shall be planted in grass and/or with some other ground cover; and

(2)

Parked vehicles may overhang a landscaped area no more than two and one-half feet (2½'), provided curbing or other wheel stops and installed to insure no greater overhang or penetration of the landscaped islands. Landscaping, walls, fences, and earthberms shall be located to prevent their damage and/or destruction by overhanging vehicles.

C.

Requirements for Front Setback.

1.

Required Landscaping Area:

a)

Minimum Depth: 50 feet.

D.

Requirements For Boundaries Adjacent To Any Residential Zoning District and Existing Residential Uses in the Basic Industrial District.

1.

Required Buffer Area:

a)

Minimum Depth: 30 feet.

4.8.6:

Signage.

A.

Intent.

The purposes of these sign regulations are: to encourage the effective use of signs as a means of communication; to maintain and enhance the aesthetic environment; to increase the County's ability to attract sources of economic development and growth; to improve pedestrian and traffic safety; to minimize the possible adverse effect of signs on nearby public and private property; and to enable the fair and consistent enforcement of these sign regulations.

B.

Refer to section 3.11: Signage for general sign requirements.

C.

No sign, or part thereof, may be altered, constructed, changed, converted, enlarged, or moved unless in conformity with the following requirements.

D.

Sign Area: Shall be measured by height (A) by length (B) of the smallest rectangle that can be drawn to measure all sign elements. Unless otherwise noted, only one side or face of the same sign shall be used in computing sign area.

E.

Allowed Signs: The applicant may select two (2) of the following six (6) choices for a sign type per street frontage:

1.

Wall Sign.

a)

Maximum Size: 1 square foot per linear foot of the building wall on which the sign is to be placed.

2.

Window Sign.

a)

Maximum Size: 20% of the window area.

3.

Projecting Sign.

a)

Maximum Size: 16 square feet for one side.

b)

Maximum Height: No projecting sign shall extend above the roof line.

c)

Clearance: 8' above ground level.

4.

Awning Sign.

a)

Maximum Size: 15% of exterior surface of the awning.

b)

Signs, symbols, or designs may be painted or sewn onto the awning.

5.

Ground Sign.

a)

Maximum Size: 45 square feet for one side.

b)

Maximum Height: 3½ feet.

6.

Directory Sign.

a)

The parcel shall contain no more than one (1) directory sign.

b)

The maximum sign area shall not exceed one (1) foot by two (2) feet for each identified activity, business, firm, or tenant.

c)

The directory sign may take the form of any sign permitted in the zoning district provided that such sign shall comply with its applicable specification. If the directory sign is a freestanding sign, no other freestanding sign shall be located on the parcel.

F.

Prohibited Signs:

1.

Moving signs of any type.

2.

Signs projecting above the roof line.

3.

Any sign not listed as being allowed is prohibited.

4.9.1:

Intent.

The intent of the Planned Development District is to encourage flexibility in the development of land in order to promote its most appropriate use; to improve the design, character, and quality of new development; to facilitate the provision of streets and utilities; and to preserve the natural and scenic features of open areas.

4.9.2:

General.

A.

Any area may apply to be zoned as a Planned Development District if one (1) or more of the following conditions are met:

1.

Separate land uses, which would not otherwise be permitted to locate within the same zoning district, are proposed for development on one or more adjacent parcels.

2.

Exceptions or variations to the existing regulations are essential for the project in terms of site, design, or dimensional requirements.

B.

Minimum lot Size: 1 acre.

C.

Minimum Lot Depth: 200 feet.

D.

Lot shall adjoin or have direct access to at least one street.

E.

The site shall be in one (1) ownership, or if in several ownerships, the application for amendment to the Zoning Chapter shall be filed jointly by all of the owners.

4.9.3:

Uses.

A.

Permitted Uses: The following uses or combination of uses shall be considered:

1.

Any use proposed by the developer and considered by the Planning Commission and County Council as being compatible to other nearby uses within and beyond the district may be permitted in such district, upon approval by the Planning Commission and County Council. A listing of permitted uses within a particular Planned Development District shall be adopted as part of the regulations applying to that district. Thereafter, the uses permitted in the district shall be restricted to those listed, approved and adopted.

4.9.4:

Design Criteria and Development Standards.

A.

Overall site design shall be harmonious in terms of landscaping, enclosure of principal and accessory uses, sizes of structures, street patterns, and use relationships. Variety in building types, heights, facades, setbacks, and size of open spaces shall be encouraged.

B.

Densities for residential dwelling units shall not exceed one (1) unit per 2,500 square feet of land area, including yard and other dimensional requirements.

C.

Bufferyards: As determined as needed by the Planning Commission and County Council.

D.

Open Space: As determined as needed by the Planning Commission and County Council.

E.

All standards of the existing zoning district shall apply, if not specified otherwise in that particular PD district.

4.9.5:

Administrative Procedures with Regard to Planned Development Districts.

A.

Zoning Chapter Amendment Required: Any request pertaining to the establishment of a Planned Development District shall be considered an amendment to the Zoning Ordinance and shall be administered and processed in accordance with Sections 5.3. and 5.4 The request shall first be submitted to the Planning Commission for review, public hearing, and recommendation, then forwarded to County Council for final action. If approved by the County Council, all information pertaining to the proposal shall be adopted. Any proposed changes in the district shall be treated as amendments to the Zoning Ordinance and must be considered accordingly.

B.

Time Limitation: If the approved planned development project has not begun within two (2) years of its approval date by County Council, the planned development district shall become null and void and the land classification shall revert to its previous zoning classification.

4.9.6:

Submission Materials Required for Development Plan.

A.

Purpose and Effect: An application for rezoning to a Planned Development District shall include a Development Plan incorporating the information required in Section B below and such additional information as the applicant may deem necessary to provide a detailed understanding of the proposed planned development. Although it is unnecessary to become involved in the preparation of engineering drawings at this stage, the Development Plan must be sufficiently detailed to be judged for its superiority to other forms of development or other zoning districts.

B.

Application Contents: The following information and documentation, together with such additional information as required by the Commission, the County Planner, or his designee, shall constitute a complete rezoning application:

1.

The applicant's name and address and ownership interest in the subject property.

2.

The name and address, and signed written consent of those having an ownership interest, if different than the applicant filing the application.

3.

The tax map identification number.

4.

The present and proposed zoning classification and use of the subject property and adjacent land.

5.

A survey showing property boundary lines, metes and bounds, utility transmission lines and public rights-of-way crossing and adjacent to the subject property.

6.

A vicinity map.

7.

A general topographic map accompanied by a plan for the management of storm water and general site drainage.

8.

A written statement generally describing the proposed development's compliance with the Comprehensive Plan.

9.

One or more Development Plans at a scale approved by the Zoning Administrator depicting or describing the following features of the development:

a)

A land use plan map with a description of the type, location, and nature of land use (and building type) within each area of the development indicating the acreage and proposed density and lot requirements of each subarea.

b)

A proposed traffic circulation map which illustrates internal trafficways related to the development, existing and proposed access points, and through roads accessing adjacent parcels.

c)

A general description of the means of providing water service, sanitary sewerage, utilities, refuse collection, schools, fire protection, libraries, parks and similar services, where applicable.

d)

A delineation and description of the open space areas.

e)

A statement identifying easements and restrictive covenants relating to the establishment of common open space or service facility within the planned development, and the establishment and activation of any entity that is to be responsible for the management and maintenance of any public or private common area.

10.

A tabulation of the following information:

a)

The maximum total number of dwelling units proposed by type of structure, by subarea, if applicable.

b)

The maximum total square feet of building floor area proposed for nonresidential uses by type of use, by subarea, if applicable.

c)

The total land area, expressed in acres and as a percent of the total development area, proposed to be devoted to residential and non-residential uses.

d)

The minimum lot requirements for each proposed use (if different that the minimum lot requirements specified in the current zoning district).

11.

If the planned development is proposed for construction in phases during a period exceeding a single construction season, a proposed phasing plan shall be submitted stating the portions of each use and public spaces to be provided during each stage.

12.

A statement identifying each of the regulations or other applicable provisions of this Ordinance which the applicant proposes to be modified as part of the Development Plan, the proposed modification, and the justification thereof.

13.

A performance bond may be required of the developer, as determined by the County Planner, the Planning Commission, and/or the County Council.

4.10.1:

Intent.

This District is intended to protect and preserve areas of the County which are presently rural or agricultural in character and use; to provide for a full range of agricultural activities; and to allow low density residential development for those who are willing to live in more remote locations and to assume the costs of providing many of their own services. The regulations which apply within this district are designed: 1) to encourage the formation and continuance of a compatible environment for public and recreational areas, farming, orchards, livestock, ranches, dairies, timberland, forest management areas, horticultural nurseries, and other agricultural uses which involve the growing and harvesting of crops, livestock and animals and/or trees; 2) to provide suitable services, commercial and otherwise, to residents of the district; and 3) to discourage any encroachment by incompatible housing developments, commercial and/or industrial operations, or other uses capable of adversely affecting the basic forest, agricultural, or environmentally sensitive areas of the district.

4.10.2:

General.

1.

Minimum Lot Size: 2 acres.

2.

Minimum Lot Width: 180 feet at building line.

3

Minimum Front Yard Depth: Fifty (50) feet; although stands or displays of seasonal agricultural produce or other permitted commercial activities may be located within the minimum front yard area but no closer to the nearest street right-of-way than ten (10) feet.

4.

Minimum Side Yard: Thirty (30) feet.

5.

Minimum Rear Yard: Thirty (30) feet.

6.

Maximum Building Height: None, provided evidence from appropriate authorities is submitted to the effect that such building or structure will not interfere with any airport approach zones or flight patterns.

7

Lot shall adjoin or have direct access to a publicly dedicated, publicly accepted, or publicly maintained street or road, with a right-of-way width of at least fifty (50) feet.

8.

Maximum number of dwelling units on one tract: Three (3), without subdividing tract; a minimum of sixty (60) feet is required between dwellings. NOTE: A minimum of 2 acres is still required for each dwelling unit; hence, a tract containing three dwelling units would require six acres.

4.10.3:

Uses.

A.

Permitted Uses: The following uses or combination of uses shall be considered:

1)

Farms or establishments for the growing, care, and handling of field crops, truck farming, fruit and/or nut trees, poultry, and/or animals, livestock, or fish; horticultural nursery; and other uses defined under the 2007 NAICS Codes 111 (Crop Production) and 112 (Animal Production);

2)

Tree farms and/or forest management areas: logging and other activities of Forestry and Logging (NAICS Section 113);

3)

Single- family residence located on at least two (2) acres of land;

4)

Church;

5)

Private or semi-private club, lodge, union hall, or social center;

6)

Animal hospital or veterinary clinic and pet boarding facility;

7)

Any publicly owned and operated building, facility, or land;

8)

Golf course;

9)

One-family dwelling accessory to farm operation, on same property with farm and occupied by full-time owners and laborers on said farm;

10)

Individual manufactured home or mobile home, used for permanent residential purposes on individual lots containing not less than two acres of land;

11)

Farm and Garden supply store;

12)

Boat marina, boat house or private dock;

13)

Airfield, together with subordinate uses;

14)

Wildlife refuge, including one-family or two-family dwelling units of caretakers employed to maintain and protect the refuge.

B.

Conditional Uses: The following uses shall be permitted in any Forest Agricultural District subject to conditions set forth herein below, upon approval by the Zoning Administrator:

(1)

Stand or shelter for the selling and/or display of agricultural products, provided that such uses provide at least four (4) off-street parking spaces that are adequately maintained;

(2)

Commercial riding stable provided that no building or enclosure for animals is located closer than one hundred (100) feet from any property line or other residence;

(3)

Cemetery, when accessory to and on the same property as a permitted use in the FA district;

(4)

Temporary use in compliance with the stated regulations of this Ordinance;

(5)

Support activities for Agriculture and Forestry (NAICS, Section 115, 2007 edition);

(6)

Sawmills (NAICS 321113);

(7)

Cabinet-making businesses (NAICS 33711, 337122, and 337211);

(8)

Wineries (NAICS 31213);

(9)

Outdoor recreation facility, publicly or privately owned (ball field, swimming pool, game court, etc.);

(10)

Communication Towers not exceeding 360 feet in height;

(11)

Child Care Homes and Child Care Centers, per section 3.22;

(12)

Deer processing and similar wildlife processing facilities, as regulated by the State of South Carolina and by Section 3.2.6: B., Conditional Uses, as found in the Abbeville County Zoning Ordinance.

(13)

Light manufacturing, wholesaling, and service related businesses including buildings not exceeding 5,000 square feet under roof, provided their appearance remains residential/agricultural as viewed from the public way and business activities do not produce sound levels that are uncharacteristic of the area. Traffic and parking guidelines shall be observed as provided for in section 3.7. Landscape buffers and/or screening shall be provided as determined by the Zoning Administrator.

(14)

Cemeteries on parcels of more or less than 2 acres.

C.

Uses Allowed as Special Exceptions:

(1)

Communications Towers exceeding 360 feet in height;

(2)

Temporary Accessory Residential Uses.

(3)

Solar Farms subject to section 3.23 and approval by the Abbeville County Planning Commission.

(Ord. No. 2011-11, 2-13-2012; Ord. No. 2016-12, 11-14-2016; Ord. No. 2018-03, 5-14-2018; Ord. No. 2022-13, 12-12-2022)

4.10.4.

Parking.

A.

General Requirements: See general parking requirements in Section 3.13 and Section 6.1.10.

B.

Required Loading Spaces: See Section 6.1.16.