This Article explains how to interpret Table 6.1-1, Use Table. The top of Table 6.1-1, Use Table, contains the Zoning Districts and left side of the table contains the use types. Under the hierarchy established by this Ordinance, the NR district is the least intensive base Zoning District, while the IN Zoning District is the most intensive base Zoning District. The uses listed in Table 6.1-1, Use Table, are permitted or not permitted in each Zoning District according to the letter coding described in Sections 6.1.1 through 6.1.5 below.

All of the types of uses listed in the Table 6.1-1, Use Table, are defined in Chapter 12, Definitions.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

The following use conditions shall apply to Principal Uses in any Zoning District where these uses are allowed as "Conditional Uses" or "Special Exceptions" as shown in Table 6.1-1, Use Table.

An "A" indicates that a use type is allowed by right in the respective Zoning District, subject to compliance with all other applicable regulations of this Ordinance. A Use Allowed by Right is defined in CHAPTER 12, Definitions, of this Ordinance as a Principal Use allowed without the requirement of a Special Exception.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

A "C" indicates that a use type is allowed in the respective Zoning District only if it complies with use-specific conditions and all other applicable regulations of this Ordinance. A cross-reference to the applicable conditions can be found in the "Condition" column of Table 6.1-1, Use Table. The number provides a cross-reference to the use-specific conditions contained in this Chapter.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

An "S" indicates that a use type is allowed only if reviewed and approved in accordance with the Special Exception procedures of this Ordinance, subject to compliance with use-specific conditions and all other applicable regulations of this Ordinance. A cross- reference to the applicable conditions can be found in the "Condition" column of Table 6.1-1, Use Table. The number provides a cross-reference to the use-specific conditions contained in this Chapter.

Any use that was legally established before April 21, 1999 without Special Exception approval and which after April 21, 1999 is located in a Zoning District that requires Special Exception approval for the subject use and which presently continues as an allowable use, shall not be considered a nonconforming use and shall not require a Special Exception. Such uses shall be deemed Uses Permitted by Right, as defined in CHAPTER 12, Definitions, of this Ordinance.

Any use that was legally established before April 21, 1999 with a Conditional Use Permit and which after April 21, 1999 is located in a Zoning District that requires Special Exception approval for the subject use and which presently continues as an allowable use, shall not be considered a nonconforming use and shall not require a Special Exception. Such uses shall be deemed Uses Permitted by Right, as defined in CHAPTER 12, Definitions, of this Ordinance.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

A blank cell indicates that a use type is not allowed in the respective Zoning District, unless it is otherwise expressly allowed by other regulations of this Ordinance.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

The Zoning and Planning Director shall be authorized to make use determination whenever there is a question regarding the category of use based on the definitions contained in CHAPTER 12, Definitions, of this Ordinance or may require that the use be processed in accordance with the Planned Development (PD) procedures of this Ordinance.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

Principal uses shall be allowed within the Zoning Districts of this Ordinance in accordance with Table 6.1-1, Use Table. See Chapter 5, Overlay and Special Purpose Zoning Districts. as applicable.

 (Ord. No. 2316, 10/29/2024)

Effective on: 10/29/2024, as amended

1. Aquaculture, Mariculture, Animal and Insect Production, Horticultural Production, Hemp Production and Processing, and Agricultural Processing uses shall be subject to the following standards.
   1. Such uses must be located on a Lot with a minimum area of five highland acres. On Lots with an area of less than five highland acres, such uses are allowed only if reviewed and approved in accordance with the Special Exception procedures of this Ordinance.
   2.  If the subject Lot is less than five acres in size, a 25-foot vegetated buffer is required to adjoining Parcels. In lieu of a planted 25-foot vegetated buffer, a 75-foot Setback to the operation, from the side and rear property boundaries shall be provided.
   3.  If the subject Lot is five acres or large in size, a 50-foot vegetated buffer is required to adjoining Parcels. In lieu of a 50-foot vegetated buffer, a 150-foot Setback to the operation, from the side and rear property boundaries shall be provided.
   4.  Mariculture uses shall comply with the Commercial Dock requirements of this Ordinance in addition to the requirements of this Section.
   5. Onsite sales are permitted as an Accessory Use, subject to the provisions of this Ordinance.
2. Hemp Production and Processing.
   1. Evidence of the appropriate South Carolina Department of Agriculture Industrial Hemp License (Grower or Processor) shall be submitted with any Site Plan Review Application.
   2. Evidence of the appropriate South Carolina Department of Agriculture Hemp Grower or Processor application approval shall be submitted with any Site Plan Review Application.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

Single- Family Attached Dwellings shall be subject to the following standards.

1. Number of Attached Units in a Single Structure.  No single Structure may contain more than eight Single-Family Attached Dwellings.
2.  Lot Area and Dimensional Standards. 

   1. In the S-3 Zoning District, the dimensional standards of the UR Zoning District shall apply provided:

      1.  The Density shall not exceed three Principal Dwelling Units per acre;
      2.  The Waterfront Development Standards of the S-3 Zoning District shall apply to Development abutting the OCRM Critical Line;
      3.  The Building Height requirements of the S-3 Zoning District shall apply; and
      4.  The architecture of the Dwellings is consistent with the character of the existing neighborhood as determined by the Zoning and Planning Director.

   2. In the RO and R-4 Zoning Districts, the dimensional standards of the UR Zoning District shall apply provided:

      1. The density shall not exceed four Principal Dwelling Units per acre;

      2. The Waterfront Development Standards of the R-4 Zoning District shall apply to Development abutting the OCRM Critical Line;

      3. The Building Height requirements of the R-4 Zoning District shall apply; and

      4. The architecture of the Dwellings is consistent with the character of the existing neighborhood as determined by the Zoning and Planning Director.

   3. In the GO, CI, and NC Zoning Districts, the dimensional standards of the UR Zoning District shall apply provided:

      1. The Density shall not exceed four Principal Dwelling Units per acre.

      2. The Waterfront Development Standards of the R-4 Zoning District shall apply to Development abutting the OCRM Critical Line; and

      3. The Building Height requirements of the R-4 Zoning District shall apply.

   4. In the MHS Zoning District, the dimensional standards of the UR Zoning District shall apply provided:

      1.  The Density shall not exceed six Principal Dwelling Units per acre;
      2.  The Waterfront Development Standards of the MHS Zoning District shall apply to Development abutting the OCRM Critical Line; and
      3.  The Building Height requirements of the MHS Zoning District shall apply.

   5. In the UR Zoning District, the Density, Intensity, and Dimensional Standards of the UR Zoning District shall apply.

   6. In the CC and IN Zoning Districts located in the Urban/Suburban Area as defined in the Charleston County Comprehensive Plan, the density, intensity, and dimensional standards of the UR Zoning District shall apply. 

   7. Single-Family Attached Dwellings shall not be allowed on properties that are zoned CC or IN in the Rural Area, as defined in the Charleston County Comprehensive Plan.

3. Accessory Structures. All Accessory Structures shall be located on the same Lot as the Principal Structure (Single-Family Attached Dwelling) and shall be for the private use of the property occupant(s). A minimum Interior Setback of three feet is required between an Accessory Structure and the Interior Lot Lines, provided that an Accessory Structure may be located on one of the zero Lot Lines when constructed of a material finish matching the Principal Dwelling Unit exterior or when the Accessory Structure is the same height and materially a part of a Fence or Wall.
4. Design Standards.
   1. The front Facade of a Single-Family Attached Dwelling may not include more than 40 percent Garage Wall area.
   2. The roof of each Single-Family Attached Dwelling must be distinct from the other through either separation of roof pitches or direction, or other variation in roof design.
   3. At least 10 percent of the area of each Facade that faces a Street must be comprised of windows.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

Hair, Nail or Skin Care Services shall be subject to the following standards:

1. Hair, Nail or Skin Care Services shall be limited to a maximum of one chair in those Zoning Districts in which they are allowed as a use subject to conditions, otherwise this use shall comply with the Special Exception procedures  of this Ordinance.
2. Where Hair, Nail, or Skin Care Services are allowed as a use subject to conditions , this use shall have a maximum Floor Area of 5,000 square feet, otherwise this use shall comply with the Special Exception procedures of this Ordinance.
3. Hair, Nail, or Skin Care Services are allowed as Home Occupations in all residential and agricultural Zoning Districts with a maximum of one chair.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

If accommodations are offered in conjunction with this use, the requirements of Article 6.8, Short-Term Rentals, of this Ordinance for the Zoning District in which the Parcel is located shall apply; otherwise, a Planned Development Zoning District application must be processed pursuant to the requirements of this Ordinance.

Effective on: 10/10/2017, as amended

1. Purpose and Legislative Intent. The Federal Telecommunications Act of 1996 affirmed Charleston County’s authority concerning the placement, construction and modification of Wireless Telecommunications Facilities. The regulations of this Section are designed to site Communications Towers in Charleston County. It is the intent of these regulations to allow for the harmonious coexistence of Communications Towers and other land uses. It is also the intent of these regulations to reduce the overall negative impact of Communications Towers by:
   1. Reducing the number of towers needed through a policy of encouraging co-location; and
   2. If co-location is not feasible, encouraging the following:
      1. The use of Antennae Concealment Tower Design, as defined in Sec. 6.4.5.C.1;
      2. The clustering of towers (“tower farms”);
      3. The placement of towers away from Roadways;
      4. The provision of effective screening; and
      5. The location of communications equipment on existing Structures or within existing Utility substations or uses.
2. Co-Location Exemption. Proposed communications equipment co-locating on existing towers and Structures without adding to their height shall require only a Zoning Permit and shall not be subject to the requirements of this Section.
3. Antennae Concealment Tower Provision.
   1. For the purposes of this Section, the term “Antennae Concealment Tower” shall mean a Communications Tower designed to unobtrusively blend into its existing surrounding so as not to have the appearance of a Communications Tower. Examples of Antennae Concealment Towers include, but are not limited to, antenna tower alternative Structures, architecturally screened roof-mounted antennas, building-mounted antennas painted to match the existing or proposed Trees and landscaping, and antenna Structures designed to look like light poles.
   2. All proposed Antennae Concealment Tower designs must be approved by the Zoning and Planning Director.
   3. A complete Zoning Permit application for an Antennae Concealment Tower that meets all requirements of this Ordinance shall be approved.
4. Tower Abandonment. A Communication Tower that is not used for communication purposes for more than 120 days (with no new application on file for any communication user) is presumed to be out of service and the owner of such Communication Tower must notify the staff and remove the tower within 50 days. Communication Towers which are not maintained by the owner according to the County Building Code shall be removed by the owner within 60 days. To assure the removal of towers which do not meet requirements for continued use or proper maintenance, a statement of financial responsibility shall be submitted for each Communication Tower over 100 feet and a performance bond for the amount of anticipated removal costs shall be posted for each tower over 150 feet. Removal costs shall be charged to the tower owner. The bond must be renewed as necessary to ensure that it is maintained at all times during the existence of the Communication Tower.
5. Pre-Application Meeting. Prior to submitting a formal application for a Zoning Permit for a Communication Tower, the Applicant is required to attend one or more pre-application meetings. The purpose of the pre-application meeting is to address key issues which will help to expedite the review and permitting process. The Zoning and Planning Director may conduct a site visit at the pre-application meeting.
6. Zoning Permit Submittal Requirements. Prior to Zoning Permit approval, all applications for Communications Towers shall complete the Site Plan Review process as provided in Chapter 3, Development Review Procedures, of this Ordinance. In addition to any Site Plan Review requirements, the application must contain the following items:
   1. A site plan, drawn to engineer's scale, showing the location of the tower guy anchors (if any), existing or proposed Buildings and Structures or improvements, including parking, driveways or access roads, fences, and protected and Grand Trees affected by the proposed construction. If there are no Grand Trees affected, a surveyor's statement on the Site Plan must be shown. Adjacent land uses shall also be noted on the site plan, with precise measurements noted between the proposed tower and any residential Structures on surrounding properties.
   2. The Site Plan must show a vegetated buffer, either existing or installed, that provides an effective screen from public Rights-of-Way and adjacent Property Owners. If a buffer is to be installed, its placement on the site will vary in order to provide the most effective screening from public view. Required materials will be based on installation of a 25 foot buffer around the fenced area.
   3. The height and typical design of the tower, typical materials to be used, color, and lighting shall be shown on elevation drawings. The Applicant shall submit documentation justifying the total height of any Communications Towers, facility and/or antenna and the basis therefore. Additionally, color and material samples shall be provided.
   4. The tower must be located no closer to a residential structure than a distance equal to 1 ½ feet for each 1 foot in height of the proposed tower plus 50 feet as measured from the center of the proposed tower. At a minimum, there must be a 150-foot distance between the proposed tower and a residential Structure.
   5. A six foot non-climbable Fence must be placed around the tower (except for those designed in a manner compatible with Sec. 6.4.5.A.2, Antennae Concealment Exemption) and any associated building. Guy wires may be fenced separately.
   6. The proposed tower shall only be illuminated as required by the Federal Communications Commission or Federal Aviation Administration. Nighttime strobe lighting shall not be incorporated unless required by the Federal Communications Commission or Federal Aviation Administration. If lighting is required, the Applicant shall provide a detailed plan for sufficient lighting that shall be as unobtrusive and inoffensive as permissible under State and Federal regulations, and an artist’s rendering or other visual representation showing the effect of light emanating from the site on neighboring habitable structures within 1,500 feet of all property lines of the parcel on which the Communications Towers are located.
   7. Communications Towers shall contain a Sign no larger than four square feet to provide adequate notification to Persons in the immediate area of the presence of an antenna that has transmission capabilities. The Sign shall contain the name(s) of the owner(s) and operator(s) of the antenna(s) as well as emergency phone number(s). The Sign shall be located so as to be visible from the access point of the site. No other signage, including advertising, shall be permitted on any facilities, antennas, antenna supporting structures or antenna towers, unless required by law.
   8. The proposed tower must be located such that adequate Setbacks are provided on all sides to prevent the tower's Fall Zone from encroaching onto adjoining properties. The Fall Zone shall be determined by an engineer certified by the State of South Carolina in a letter which includes the engineer's signature and seal.
   9. Proposed towers may not be located within 1,000 feet of the center of an existing tower unless the Applicant certifies that the existing tower does not meet the Applicant's structural specifications and the Applicant's technical design requirements, or that a co-location agreement could not be obtained at a reasonable market rate. In the event of the above situation, the clustering of new towers on the same Parcel near existing towers is permitted.
   10. A copy of the tower's search ring.
   11. The Applicant shall supply the FAA study number for the proposed tower.
   12. For the purposes of co-location review and review of efforts at siting a tower on the same Lot near an existing tower, the Applicant shall submit satisfactory written evidence such as correspondence, agreements, contracts, etc., that alternative towers, Buildings, or other Structures are not available or suitable for use within the Applicant’s tower site search area that are structurally capable of supporting the intended antenna or meeting the Applicant’s necessary height criteria, providing a location free of interference from other Communication Towers, or available at the prevailing market rate (as determined by staff communication with Persons doing business within the industry). Additionally, the Applicant shall build the proposed tower in such a manner as may allow other telecommunication users to co-locate.
   13. The tower shall be designed with excess capacity for future needs.
   14. A statement of financial responsibility shall be submitted for each tower over 100 feet and a performance bond for the amount of anticipated removal costs shall be posted for each tower over 150 feet. The bond must be renewed as necessary to ensure that it is maintained at all times during the existence of the tower.
   15. The Applicant shall furnish a Visual Impact Assessment which shall include:
       1. A “Zone Visibility Map” which shall be provided in order to determine locations where the Tower may be seen.
       2. Pictorial representations of “before and after” view from key viewpoints both inside and outside the County, including but not limited to major highways and roads; state and local parks; Historic Districts; preserves and Historic Sites normally open to the public; and from any other location where the site is visible to a large number of visitors, travelers or residents.
       3. An assessment of the visual impact of the tower base, guy wires and accessory buildings from abutting and adjacent properties and Streets.
7. Retention of Expert Assistance and Reimbursement by Applicant.
   1. The County may hire any consultant and/or expert necessary to assist the County in reviewing and evaluating the application, including the construction and modification of the site, once permitted, and any requests for recertification.
   2. For towers proposed to be 100 feet or higher, the Applicant shall deposit with the County funds sufficient to reimburse the County for all reasonable costs of the consultant and expert evaluation and consultation to the County in connection with the review of any application including the construction and modification of the site, once permitted. The initial deposit shall be $5,000.00. The application will not be processed until receipt of this initial deposit. The County will maintain a separate account for all such funds. The County’s consultants/experts shall invoice the County for all its services in reviewing the application, including the construction and modification the site, once permitted. If at any time during the process this account has a balance less than $1,000.00, the Applicant shall immediately, upon notification by the County, replenish said account so that it has a balance of at least $5,000.00. Such additional account funds shall be deposited with the County before any further action or consideration is taken on the application. In the event that the amount held in the account by the County is more than the amount of the actual invoicing at the conclusion of the project, the remaining balance shall be promptly refunded to the Applicant. The Applicant shall not be entitled to receive any interest earnings on unused funds.
   3. The total amount of the funds needed as set forth in subsection 2 of this Section may vary with the scope and complexity of the project, the completeness of the application and other information as may be needed to complete the necessary review, analysis, and inspection of any construction or modification.
   4. Additional fees may be required if additional hearings before the Board of Zoning Appeals are caused by or requested by the applicant.
8. Surrounding Property Owner Notification.
   1. In order to better inform the public, in the case of a new Communications Towers, the Applicant shall hold a “balloon test” as follows: the Applicant shall arrange to fly, or raise upon a temporary mast, a minimum of three foot diameter brightly colored balloon at the maximum height of the proposed new tower. The dates (including a second date, in case of poor visibility on the initial date) shall be provided to the Zoning and Planning Director 10 days after receipt of the Complete Application notice. The dates shall be set a minimum of 15 days prior to the Zoning and Planning Director making a final decision on the Zoning Permit. The balloons shall be flown for 10 consecutive hours between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
   2. Once the application is deemed complete by the Zoning and Planning Director for a Communications Tower Zoning Permit, the Zoning and Planning Department shall provide Parties in Interest, Neighbor, Posted and Newspaper Notice in accordance with the requirements of Sec. 3.1.6 of this Ordinance. The public notice shall include the dates of the balloon tests as provided by the Applicant and the date the Zoning and Planning Director must make a final decision on the Zoning Permit.
9. Time Limit for Staff Review. Upon receipt of an application deemed complete by the Zoning and Planning Director for a Communications Tower Zoning Permit, the Zoning and Planning Director shall have a maximum of 45 days to act on the application. The 45 days begins from the date the Applicant is sent Written Notice of a Complete Application from the Zoning and Planning Director. Failure to act on the application within 45 days will result in the applicant being granted a Zoning Permit.
10. Zoning Permit Approval Criteria.
    1. A complete Zoning Permit application for an Antennae Concealment Tower that meets all requirements of this Ordinance shall be approved.
    2. Upon review of a Complete Application, no Zoning Permit shall be issued for a Communications Tower until the Zoning and Planning Director determines that the proposed tower complies with the following criteria and standards:
       1. That the location and height of the proposed tower will not substantially impact the character of property listed in or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places, other significant environmental, cultural or historical sites, officially designated scenic roads or rivers, and that the tower is designed to blend into the environment and minimize visual impact.
       2. If a completely new tower is necessary, the Applicant must provide written proof of attempts at co-location and siting a tower on the same Lot near an existing tower were proven not feasible or practical.
       3. That the Applicant has pursued any available publicly owned sites and privately owned sites occupied by a compatible use, and if not utilized, that these sites are unsuitable for operation of the facility under applicable communications regulations and the Applicant's technical design requirements.
       4. Staff shall review and approve the color and materials to be used for the proposed tower.
    3. If the Zoning and Planning Director finds a proposed Communications Tower will have a substantially negative impact on a surrounding area or adjoining property, the use shall fall under the Special Exception provisions of this Ordinance. In determining whether the use shall fall under the Special Exception provisions, the Zoning and Planning Director may consider one or more of the following items:
       1. The proposed use will be detrimental to adjacent land uses including Historical Sites;
       2. The proposed use will have a negative aesthetic visual impact;
       3. The proposed use will have an adverse affect on the environment (not including radio frequency emissions); and
       4. The proposed use is contrary to the public health, safety, or welfare.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

Drive-in Theaters shall be subject to the following standards:

1. A use for this purpose shall have a Setback 200 feet from any Agricultural, Residential or Office Zoning District. Adult drive-in theaters are subject to Sec. 6.4.18 of this Chapter.
2. Such use shall be located as to draw a minimum of vehicular traffic to and through local Streets in nearby residential areas.
3. The principal vehicular access for such use shall be on a major thoroughfare or Collector Street having a Right-of-Way at least 60 feet wide.
4. Vehicular entrances and exits shall be provided separately and not less than 100 feet apart.
5. Between the Street entrance and the ticket gate there shall be an area for vehicles waiting to pass the gate. Said area shall have such capacity as will make it ordinarily unnecessary for entering vehicles to wait in the street.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

The original purpose of Dwelling Groups was to allow Dwelling Units to be constructed on Heirs Property. The Zoning and Planning Director shall be authorized to allow the use of a Dwelling Group to facilitate random grouping of Buildings to preserve Trees and other natural features, mitigate Development constraints due to irregular shaped Parcels or for the conversion of condominium Buildings to fee simple ownership. Dwelling Groups are required to complete the Site Plan Review process and the Subdivision process for fee simple ownership as provided by S.C. Code of Laws 6-29-110.

1. Density/Intensity and Dimensional Standards. Density/Intensity and Dimensional Standards of the Zoning District in which the property or properties are located shall apply including all applicable Waterfront Development Standards of this Ordinance. In each case, the distance between Structures shall not be less than the sum of the minimum Interior Setbacks required for the applicable Zoning District. This distance shall be measured from the closest protrusion of each Structure. A minimum buildable area of 1,600 square feet with a minimum width of 20 feet) shall be shown for each Dwelling Unit to indicate the area where each Dwelling Unit is to be constructed. The application shall indicate how access and parking requirements will be addressed (may be located on common area) and how Utilities such as water and Sewer will be provided (may also be located on common area). The application shall also demonstrate how the proposed Development complies with the Density/Intensity and Dimensional Standards of the applicable Zoning District and the Lot and access requirements of CHAPTER 8, Subdivision Regulations, of this Ordinance.
2. Site Plan Review. Compliance with the Site Plan Review procedures of this Ordinance is required. In addition to any other applicable provisions of this Ordinance, the following information shall be shown on all site plans:
   1. Each Dwelling Unit shall face (front) a Street, Courtyard, or Outdoor Living Space.
   2. Building envelopes shall be depicted on site plans indicating the location of all proposed or existing Building and Dwelling Unit footprints or Building area as dashed lines.
   3. Proposed Accessory Structures must be shown on the site plans and meet the Accessory Structure requirements of this Ordinance.
   4. If the Required Parking is not located within the Dwelling Unit or Building to be constructed, shared or Off-Site Parking that complies with the requirements of this Ordinance shall be provided within the common area. Each Dwelling Group shall provide an access consistent with the Road Construction Standards in Appendix A, Road and Drainage Construction Standards, of this Ordinance.
3. Subdivision.  Attached and Detached Dwelling Units or Buildings may be located on their own fee-simple Lot provided the Subdivision meets the following requirements:
   1. Completion of Site Plan Review as described in Article 6.4.7.B is required prior to submitting for subdivision of a Dwelling Group.
   2. Except as described in Article 6.4.7.A. & B, Lots created in a Dwelling Group for fee simple ownership shall comply with the requirements of  CHAPTER 8, Subdivision Regulations, and Appendix A, Road and Drainage Construction Standards, of this Ordinance as well as the Horizontal Property Act. S.C. Code Ann. Sec. 27-31-130 et. seq.
   3. Building envelopes shall be depicted on Subdivision Plats indicating the location of the proposed or existing Dwelling Unit footprint or Building area as a solid line.
   4. A Property Owners' association shall be created and shall own and maintain all common areas. Documentation of compliance with this requirement shall be included on all Plats and recorded deed to ensure responsibility for and maintenance of common areas and access, parking, and Utilities.
4. Other Zoning Requirements. Unless specifically modified by this Section, a Dwelling Group shall comply with all other requirements of this Ordinance for the Zoning District in which located.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

Roadside Stands and Sweetgrass Basket Stands shall be subject to the following standards:

1. A.
   Vehicle parking for Sweetgrass Basket Stands shall be located entirely out of all travel lanes with a minimum of two ​​​​​feet of clearance between the edge of the travel lane and any parked vehicle and the Stand.
2. B.
   The following requirements shall apply to Roadside Stands in addition to all other applicable requirements of this Ordinance:

   1. 1.
      Maximum covered area of 500 square feet; and
   2. 2.
      Roadside Stands are not required to be located on the same Lot as the Farm on which the produce being sold is grown when the following requirements are met: (a) the Lot where the stand is located is owned by the Person, entity, etc. that owns the Farm on which the produce being sold is grown; and (b) the stand is located within one mile of the Farm on which the produce being sold is grown;
   3. 3.
      The parking and Stand shall be setback at least 5 feet from the Right-of-Way;
   4. 4.
      The location and layout shall not cause traffic safety problems;
   5. 5.
      at least two cars can be parked safely; and
   6. 6.
      the permission of the Property Owner has been obtained in writing.
3. C.
   Zoning Permits are not required for Roadside Stand or Sweetgrass Basket Stands.

Effective on: 12/6/2022, as amended

Farm Labor Housing shall be subject to the following standards:

1. Such use shall be set back 100 feet from road Rights-of-Way and property lines bordering undeveloped Parcels. A minimum 200-foot Setback shall be required from property lines abutting developed Parcels.
2. A minimum 50-foot buffer shall be maintained and planted within the Setback area along all Interior Lot Lines.
3. Farm Labor Housing shall be used on a seasonal basis only, not as year-round housing, and shall not be used for Short-Term Rental Property purposes.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

1. Where a Nature Exhibition use is of public ownership or listed in the National Registry of Natural Landmarks or registered as a Heritage Site with the South Carolina Heritage Trust in accordance with the provisions of Act #600 of the 1976 Acts and Joint Resolutions, either in public or private ownership, Accessory Uses to acquire maintenance revenue are permitted.
2. Accessory Uses are limited to the retail sale of gifts, novelties, souvenirs, food services, and bicycle, horse, or boat rental for on-premises use.
3. Accessory Structures shall not exceed ten percent in size of the Principal Structures where the Nature Exhibit is housed, or 1,200 square feet for each acre when the Nature Exhibit is not enclosed.
4. Parking requirements for each Accessory Use, in addition to the parking requirements for the Principal Use, shall comply with the parking requirements for the type of use as specified in the Off-Street Parking Schedule of CHAPTER 9, Development Standards, of this Ordinance.
5. Signs advertising Accessory Uses shall be located on the premises and not visible from a public road.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

A. Any Structure or activity use area established in connection with Parks and Recreation, Outdoor Recreation and Entertainment, Drive-In Theaters, or Golf Driving Ranges  uses shall have a vegetated land use buffer of not less than 50 feet from any property in an agricultural, residential or Office Zoning District, except where such property line abuts a Street, in which case the Front Setback established for the Zoning District shall apply.

B. Any Structure or activity use area established in connection with an Outdoor Shooting Range shall have a Setback of not less than 100 feet from any property in an agricultural, residential or Office use or Zoning District.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

1. A.
   Recreational Vehicles shall not be used as Short-Term Rental Properties.
2. B.
   Location and Access. Recreational Vehicle Parks shall be located in a public park or with direct access to a state or federal numbered highway or an approved County road. Recreational Vehicle Parks shall not access from County Non-Standard Roads. No entrance to or exit from a Recreational Vehicle Park shall be through an agricultural, residential, or Office Zoning District.
3. C.
   Site Conditions. Condition of soil, groundwater level, drainage, and topography shall not create hazards to the property or the health or safety of the occupants. No portion of the site that is subject to unpredictable and/or sudden flooding, subsidence, or erosion shall be used for any purpose that would expose Persons or property to hazards.
4. D.
   Spaces for Occupancy; Uses Permitted; Lengths Of Stay. Spaces in a Recreational Vehicle Park may be used by Recreation Vehicles, as defined herein. Spaces shall be rented by the day, week, or month only, and no Recreational Vehicle shall remain in the same park for more than six  months. The Recreational Vehicle Park owner shall be responsible for maintaining records of all Recreational Vehicles and their lengths of stay and shall make these records available to the Zoning and Planning Director for review upon request.
5. E.
   Site Planning and Required Improvements. Site Planning and Improvements shall provide for:

   1. 1.
      Facilities and amenities appropriate to the needs of the occupants;
   2. 2.
      Safe, comfortable, convenient and sanitary use by occupants under all weather conditions to be expected during periods of occupancy; and
   3. 3.
      Protection of occupants from adverse environmental influences, and where appropriate, protection of the neighborhood from potential adverse influences within the Recreational Vehicle Park.
6. F.
   Relation of Spaces to Public Streets. No space shall be located so that any part intended for occupancy for sleeping purposes shall be within 50 feet of the Right-of-Way line of any major thoroughfare or Collector Street, or within 25 feet of the Right-of-Way line of any other Street.
   
   (Ord. No. 2375, 01/27/2026)

Effective on: 1/27/2026, as amended

1. Tattoo Facilities shall be prohibited within 1,000 feet of a church, school, or playground. This distance shall be the shortest route of the ordinary pedestrian or vehicular travel along the public thoroughfare from the nearest point of the grounds in use as part of the church, school, or playground;
2. All proposed Tattoo Facilities located within 1,000 feet of a property line of a Lot in a residential Zoning District, or a Lot containing a Residential Use shall require review and approval in accordance with the Special Exception procedures of this Ordinance. The distance shall be measured from the nearest property line of the subject Parcel to the nearest property line of a Lot containing a Residential Use or located in a residential Zoning District;
3. All proposed Tattoo Facilities may only provide Tattooing and may not engage in any other retail business including, but not limited to, the sale of goods or performing any form of body piercing other than tattooing;
4. Tattoo Facility uses shall comply with the Site Plan Review requirements of this Ordinance and all other applicable provisions of this Ordinance, and all other applicable State laws, rules, and regulations; and
5. When the provisions of this Ordinance require that Neighbor Notice be provided, the requirements of Sec. 3.1.6.B.3 of this Ordinance shall apply with the exception that all Property Owners within 1,000 feet of the Subject Property shall be included in the Neighbor Notice.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

1. A.
   Applications. All uses involving Resource Extraction shall complete the Site Plan Review process and obtain a Zoning Permit. Prior to Site Plan Review approval, the applicant shall receive approval or written documentation of exemption from the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC).
2. B.

   Requirements.

   1. 1.

      A Resource Extraction use shall not be allowed on a Lot located within 2.5 miles of another Lot for which a Site Plan Review or Zoning Permit application for a Resource Extraction use has been submitted or approved, or for which a Resource Extraction use has been permitted or is currently in operation, whether located in the unincorporated County or within a municipality. Distances shall be measured as a radius from the nearest property line of the subject Lot to the nearest property line of a Lot containing another Resource Extraction use as described above. Subdivision-related Resource Extraction uses required for compliance with Charleston County Stormwater regulations shall be exempt from this requirement provided that only the minimum amount of material required for compliance with the County’s Stormwater regulations is removed. Removal of material beyond the minimum amount required for compliance with the County’s Stormwater regulations shall be subject to the 2.5-mile radius requirement described above and all other applicable requirements of this Ordinance.

   2. 2.

      There shall be direct access to a public Arterial Street.

   3. 3.

      A Sign listing the name and phone number of a local contact for the Resource Extraction use shall be posted at the haul road entrance.

   4. 4.

      The Resource Extraction operation shall not be located within 50 feet of any property boundary, within 250 feet of a public Street, and/or within 250 feet of any Building intended for human occupancy existing at the time of permit application.

   5. 5.

      A Berm located within the required buffer may be required to mitigate noise at the discretion of the Zoning and Planning Director.

   6. 6.

      The hours of operation for Resource Extraction operations shall be limited to Mondays through Saturdays from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm. The Board of Zoning Appeals shall have the authority to modify the days and hours of operation to make them either more or less restrictive on a case-by-case basis.

3. C.
   Special Exceptions. Resource Extraction uses that do not meet the conditions of Sec. 6.4.14.D below shall comply with the Special Exception procedures of this Ordinance and all requirements of sub-sections A and B above. The Applicant shall receive Special Exception approval and approval from SCDHEC, prior to Site Plan Review approval. The Board of Zoning Appeals may, on a case-by-case basis, also require conditions of approval, including but not limited to: restricting days and hours of operation; requiring documentation from a South Carolina Registered Professional Geologist regarding potential impacts on wells, groundwater, and surface water; and requiring that the excavation area be screened and that a drainage plan be submitted and approved for the restoration of the site when excavation has been completed. All owners of property located within 500 feet of the Subject Property shall be notified of Special Exception applications in accordance with the “Neighbor Notice” requirements of Sec. 3.1.6.B of this Ordinance.
4. D.
   Special Exception Exemptions for Residential and Bona Fide Agricultural Uses. Excavation or grading activities solely for residential use, recreational use, or Bona Fide Agricultural Use shall be exempt from the Special Exception procedures and Sec. 6.4.14.B of this Ordinance if the use complies with all of the following conditions:

   1. 1.
      The Resource Extraction operation shall be limited to one year;
   2. 2.
      The Resource Extraction operation shall not be located within 50 feet of any property boundary and/or within 250 feet of any Building intended for human occupancy existing at the time of permit application. No vegetated buffers are required;
   3. 3.
      The Resource Extraction operation shall be two acres or less, provided that the total accumulated area(s) dedicated to Resource Extraction uses on a Parcel is less than five acres. The Special Exception procedures and Sec. 6.4.14.B of this Ordinance shall apply if the total accumulated Resource Extraction area is greater than five acres;
   4. 4.
      No more than one Resource Extraction use shall be permitted on the same property within one year from the date of Zoning Permit approval for a previous Resource Extraction use;
   5. 5.
      A Sign listing the name and phone number of a local contact for the Resource Extraction use shall be posted at the haul road entrance; and
   6. 6.
      The hours of operation for Resource Extraction operations shall be limited to Mondays through Saturdays from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm. 
5. E.
   Plat Alternative for Bona Fide Agricultural Uses. The Zoning and Planning Director may waive the requirement that an Approved and Recorded Plat of the Subject Property be submitted as part of a Resource Extraction application for a Bona Fide Agricultural Use when the proposed use complies with all of the conditions of sub-section C, above, and a scaled survey, scaled aerial photograph, or print of equal quality is submitted.
6. F.
   Special Exception Exemption for Solid Waste Disposal Facility. Excavation or grading activities required to prepare, operate, or close a permitted Solid Waste Disposal Facility site shall be exempt from the Special Exception procedures of this Ordinance and the requirements included in sub-section B above.

Effective on: 12/21/2023, as amended

All proposed Bars, Lounges and Restaurants serving beer or alcoholic beverages located within 500 feet of the property line of a Lot in a residential Zoning District or a Lot containing a residential use shall require review and approval in accordance with the Special Exception procedures of this Ordinance. Distances shall be measured from the nearest property line of the subject Parcel to the nearest property line of a lot containing a residential use or located in a residential Zoning District.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

1. A.
   Performance Standards.

   1. 1.
      Street Frontages and Mixed Use Development. A Self-Service Storage Facility shall be part of a mixed-use development where the ground floor use facing street frontages (entire street frontage) are separately leased commercial or office space independent of the Self-Service Storage Facility business, within the Urban/Suburban Areas of the County, as defined by the Charleston County Comprehensive Plan.
   2. 2.
      Front Setback. All structures, including the accessory manager's office/residence, must be set back a minimum of 25 feet from the Right-of-Way or the district minimum Setback, whichever is greater.
   3. 3.
      Side and Rear Buffers/Screening.

      1. a.
         Where projects abut Lots zoned office, commercial, or industrial, no Side and Rear Setbacks are required.
      2. b.
         Where sites abut residentially zoned properties, Buildings adjacent to the perimeter must face inward with their doors away from such areas.
   4. 4.
      Building Lengths and Access. To ensure ease of access for emergency vehicles, no Building shall exceed 300 feet in length. Spaces between ends of Buildings shall be at least 30 feet.
   5. 5.
      Accessory Office/Apartment. One management office and/or accessory residence shall be permitted.
   6. 6.
      Parking and Circulation.

      1. a.
         Project entrances shall be 30 feet in width.
      2. b.
         Roadway widths on interior drives shall be at least 24 feet in width where Buildings face and open onto such drives on only one side. Where buildings face and open onto drives on both sides, widths of such drives shall be at least 34 feet.
      3. c.
         Turning radii, whether provided at the terminus of interior drives or at points between Buildings, shall be at least 30 feet to provide for the maneuverability of emergency vehicles.
   7. 7.
      Signs. Signs shall comply with the requirements contained in CHAPTER 9, Development Standards, of this Ordinance. Signs shall not be attached to or displayed on walls or fences used as required screening.
2. B.
   Operating Conditions.

   1. 1.
      Commercial Activities. The manufacture or sale of any commercial commodity or the provision of any service from the premises is prohibited.
   2. 2.
      Commercial Repair Activities. Commercial repairs of vehicles, boats, motors, furniture, or other items on the premises are prohibited.
   3. 3.
      Storage of Flammable Substances. Storage of flammable chemical substances within the complex is prohibited.
   4. 4.
      Open Storage. Open storage of vehicles and boats is permitted only where such areas are screened to comply with Landscaping, Screening and Buffer requirements contained in CHAPTER 9, Development Standards, of this Ordinance.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

1. Sewage Disposal Facilities, Water and Sewage Treatment Facilities, Water Storage Tanks, Electric or Gas Power Generation Facility.
   1. Any Structure established in connection with Water Storage Tanks, Water and Sewage Treatment Facilities, Sewage Disposal Facilities or Electric or Gas Power Generation Facilities shall have a vegetated buffer of not less than 50 feet from any property line, in compliance with Chapter 9, Development Standards, buffer standards.
2. Utility Substations, Electrical or Telephone Switching Facility, Sewage Collector or Trunk Lines, Utility Pumping Station, and Water Mains.
   1. Above ground Structures that have a cumulative area of 100 square feet or less, associated with underground Utilities such as meters, necessary for maintenance and monitoring shall have a vegetated buffer of 10 feet from all property lines, in compliance with CHAPTER 9, Development Standards, buffer standards;
   2. Above ground Structures that have a cumulative area of greater than 100 square feet established in connection with Utility Substations, Electrical or Telephone Switching Facility, Sewage Collector or Trunk Lines, or Utility Pumping Station shall have a vegetated buffer of 25 feet from all property lines, or the minimum Setback of the base Zoning District, whichever is greater; and
   3. The accessory storage of vehicles and equipment on the premises shall be prohibited except in the Rural Commercial (RC), Community Commercial (CC), Rural Industrial (RI) or Industrial (IN) Zoning Districts.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

1. A.
   To promote ownership or occupancy of affordable, quality housing, increased densities and flexible use and Lot standards are allowed pursuant to Table 6.1, Use Table, and this Section, except that increased densities for Lots on Edisto Island and Wadmalaw Island are not permitted, in accordance with the Charleston County Comprehensive Plan.
2. B.
   The purchaser or tenant, at the time of closing or rental agreement, must meet the income requirements contained in this Ordinance for Affordable Dwelling Units or Workforce Dwelling Units, as applicable. It shall be the responsibility of the property owner(s) to ensure that prospective buyers and renters of Affordable and Workforce Dwelling Units are screened and eligible pursuant to the requirements of this Section. The income of all occupants age 18 years and older of an Affordable or Workforce Dwelling Unit who shall be included in the income calculation. All tax documentation shall be from the most recent tax year. Social security numbers and other personal identifying information not required by this Ordinance shall be redacted by the Applicant.
3. C.
   Applicability.

   1. 1.
      The standards of this Section apply to all Overlay Zoning Districts that do not specifically address Affordable and Workforce Dwelling Units. In the case of conflict between the requirements of this Section and those of an Overlay Zoning District or any other provision of this Ordinance, the Zoning and Planning Director shall determine which standards apply giving deference to the standards that will result in the creation of the most Affordable and Workforce Dwelling Units.
   2. 2.
      The standards of this Section do not apply to Lots located on Edisto and Wadmalaw Islands.
4. D.
   The requirements of this Section apply in addition to all other applicable requirements of the ZLDR. Development of property that contains or abuts an OCRM Critical Line shall comply with the Waterfront Development Standards for the applicable Zoning District. 

   1. 1.
      The maximum density and minimum Lot area standards listed in the table below shall apply to developments in the Rural Area, as defined in the Charleston County Comprehensive Plan, that contain the required percentages of Affordable or Workforce Dwelling Units: 

Note: “AFU” = Affordable Dwelling Unit | “WDU” = Workforce Dwelling Unit

4. 2. 2.
      The maximum Density and minimum Lot Area standards listed in the table below shall apply to Developments in the Urban/Suburban Area, as defined in the Charleston County Comprehensive Plan, that contain the required percentages of Affordable or Workforce Dwelling Units: 

      Density, Intensity, and Dimensional Standards: Urban/ Suburban Area
      Zoning District	Maximum Density when at least 25% of Principal Dwelling Units qualify as AFUs and/or WDUs:	Maximum Density when at least 50% of Principal Dwelling Units qualify as AFUs and/or WDUs:	Maximum Density when 100% of Principal Dwelling Units qualify as AFUs and/or WDUs:	Minimum Lot Area
      S-3 [1][2][4]	4 Principal Dwelling Units per acre	5 Principal Dwelling Units per acre	7 Principal Dwelling Units per acre	8,000 square feet for Single-Family Detached Dwelling Units; no minimum lot size for Single-Family Attached Dwelling Units, Duplexes, Triplexes, and Fourplexes.
      R-4, MHS, CI, RO, GO, NC [1][2][4]	8 Principal Dwelling Units per acre	12 Principal Dwelling Units per acre	18 Principal Dwelling Units per acre	4,000 square feet for Single-Family Detached Dwelling Units; no minimum lot size for Single-Family Attached Dwelling Units, Duplexes, Triplexes and Fourplexes.
      UR, CC, IN [1][3]	20 Principal Dwelling Units per acre	24 Principal Dwelling Units per acre	28 Principal Dwelling Units per acre	No minimum lot size
      [1] Development shall comply with the dimensional standards of the UR Zoning District where no standard is listed in the table above provided that the Waterfront Development Standards of the Zoning District in which the property is located apply to development abutting the OCRM Critical Line and the Building Height requirements of the Zoning District in which the property is located apply. The R- 4 Waterfront Development Standards and Building Height Requirements shall apply to development in the CI, RO, GO, and NC Zoning Districts. The UR Waterfront Development Standards and Building Height Requirements shall apply to development in the CC and IN Zoning Districts. [2] Single-Family Detached Dwelling Units, Single-Family Attached Dwelling Units, Duplexes, Triplexes, and Fourplexes shall be allowed provided that in the S-3 and R-4 Zoning Districts, Special Exception approval from the Board of Zoning Appeals shall be required for Single-Family Attached Dwelling Units, Duplexes, Triplexes, and Fourplexes. [3] Single-Family Detached Dwelling Units, Single-Family Attached Dwelling Units, Duplexes, Triplexes, Fourplexes, and Multi-Family Dwelling Units shall be allowed.      [4] Reductions in minimum lot size requirements may be requested pursuant to Art. 3.10, Zoning Variances, of this Ordinance.

Note: “AFU” = Affordable Dwelling Unit | “WDU” = Workforce Dwelling Unit

5. E.
   Off-Street Parking Requirements. Off-street parking spaces shall be provided for Affordable and Workforce Dwelling Units in accordance with Table 9.2.2, Off-Street Parking Schedule.
6. F.
   General Development and Design Requirements.

   1. 1.

      The Zoning and Planning Director shall be authorized to administratively reduce right-of-way, easement, and land use buffer requirements as applicable for properties developed in compliance with this Section.

   2. 2.

      Affordable and Workforce Dwelling Units shall be provided within each phase of the development. Subdivision plats and Site Plan Review applications shall include an accounting of the total number and type of Affordable, Workforce, and Market-Rate Dwelling Units included in the current phase as well as the total number and type of those approved in previous phases to ensure compliance with the approved Affordable/Workforce Dwelling Unit Plan.

   3. 3.
      Affordable and Workforce Dwelling UNits shall be integrated throughout the development and not located in a single area of the development. 
   4. 4.

      Any Studio Dwelling Unit provided under this Section must be a minimum of 500 square feet in floor area. In no instance shall more than 50 percent of the Affordable or Workforce Dwelling Units be provided in the form of Studio Dwelling Units.

   5. 5.

      In terms of exterior appearance, Affordable and Workforce Dwelling Units shall be indistinguishable from Market- Rate Dwelling Units. External building materials and finishes for Affordable and Workforce Dwelling Units shall be the same in type and quality as the Market-Rate Dwelling Units.

   6. 6.

      Interior features of Affordable and Workforce Dwelling Units shall be functionally equivalent to the Market-Rate Dwelling Units, though the finishes and materials need not be identical.

   7. 7.

      Affordable and Workforce Dwelling Units shall be comparable to the Market-Rate Dwelling Units in terms of improvements related to energy efficiency, which include but are not limited to mechanical equipment and plumbing, insulation, windows, and heating and cooling systems.

7. G.
   Zoning Permit Fees and Application Review.

   1. 1.
      Zoning Permit, Site Plan Review, and Subdivision Plat application fees for Affordable and Workforce Dwelling Units shall be waived by the Zoning and Planning Director at the request of the developer and provision of certification that the Dwelling Units meet the requirements of this Ordinance.
   2. 2.
      Site Plan Review and Subdivision Plat applications for developments that contain Affordable and/or Workforce Dwelling Units shall be expedited and receive priority over reviews of other applications. Issuance of Zoning Permits for Affordable and/or Workforce Dwelling Units shall also be expedited and receive priority over other applications.
   3. 3.
      The following requirements apply only to developments containing Market-Rate Dwelling Units. An Affordable/Workforce Dwelling Unit Plan must be submitted as part of all Site Plan Review and Subdivision Plat applications. The Affordable/Workforce Dwelling Unit Plan shall, at a minimum, contain the following information:

      1. a.
          The total number and type of Market-Rate Dwelling Units, Affordable Dwelling Units, and Workforce Dwelling Units, as applicable, in the development, including the total number of owner-occupied and renter-occupied Affordable and Workforce Dwelling Units.
      2. b.
         The number of bedrooms in each Market-Rate Dwelling Unit, each Affordable Dwelling Unit, and each Workforce Dwelling Unit.
      3. c.
         The square footage of each Market-Rate Dwelling Unit, each Affordable Dwelling Unit, and each Workforce Dwelling Unit.
      4. d.
         The location of each Affordable Dwelling Unit and Workforce Dwelling Unit within each development including within Duplexes, Triplexes, Fourplexes, and Multi-Family Dwelling Units. The location of each Affordable, Workforce, and Market-Rate Dwelling Unit above any non-residential use shall also be identified.
      5. e.
         A detailed description of how the developer will ensure compliance with the provisions of this section throughout the required term of affordability and how the development complies with Sec. 6.4.19(F), General Development and Design Requirements. Developers who partner with other organizations for monitoring and compliance purposes shall designate the organization in the Affordable/Workforce Dwelling Unit Plan.
   4. 4.
      Affordable and Workforce Dwelling Units shall be limited by deed restriction to remain within the parameters of the applicable definition contained in this Ordinance, for a period of not less than 20 years after the issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy. Funding sources and other factors may require a longer term of affordability. A copy of the recorded deed restrictions required by this Section shall be submitted to the Zoning and Planning Department prior to the final Site Plan Review approval or recording of the Final Plat, as applicable.

      1. a.

         Resale of Affordable and Workforce Dwelling Units shall be limited by deed restriction to the original sales price, adjusted for inflation, and to a purchaser eligible, as described in this Section, for a period of not less than 20 years after issuance of the Certificate of Occupancy. The increase permitted for inflation shall be based upon the increase in the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

      2. b.
         If, while occupying an Affordable or Workforce Dwelling Unit, a household’s income increases to an amount beyond that permitted in the definition of “Affordable Dwelling Unit” or “Workforce Dwelling Unit”, as applicable, as contained in this Ordinance, the household shall not be required to vacate the unit. Upon vacating the premises, the unit shall be sold to a qualifying household, pursuant to the requirements of this Ordinance, for the period the unit is deed restricted as an Affordable or Workforce Dwelling Unit.
   5. 5.
      The owner(s) of properties containing Affordable and Workforce Dwelling Units must sign and submit the completed Affordable and Workforce Dwelling Unit Affidavit as part of Site Plan Review and Subdivision Plat applications and at the following times:

      1. a.
         On an annual basis, by June 30th of each calendar year;
      2. b.
         At least 30 days prior to closing on an Affordable or Workforce Dwelling Unit;
      3. c.
         At least 30 days prior to a new tenant occupying an Affordable or Workforce Dwelling Unit; and
      4. d.
         Anytime a lease for an Affordable or Workforce Dwelling Unit is renewed. 
8. H.
   Rent Levels/Fair Market Rents.

   1. 1.
      The maximum rent level for Affordable and Workforce Dwelling Units shall be based on the schedule of Fair Market Rents for the Charleston-North Charleston MSA, as published annually by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
   2. 2.
      Fair Market Rents include a utility allowance for electricity, gas, water, and sewer, based on a schedule published by the South Carolina State Housing Authority.
9. I.
   A minimum lease term of 31 days is required for all Affordable and Workforce Dwelling Units. Any sublease shall comply with the requirements of this section.
10. J.
    No Affordable or Workforce Dwelling Unit may be used for Short-Term Rentals, as defined by this Ordinance.
11. K.
    Any violation of the requirements of this Section, including, but not limited to, sale or rental of Affordable or Workforce Dwelling Units during the term of affordability to persons that do not meet the eligibility requirements described in this Ordinance, failure to submit changes in ownership and/or tenants, or failure to file the Affordable and Workforce Dwelling Unit affidavit as required by this Section, shall constitute a violation and the provisions of Chapter 11, Violations, Penalties, and Enforcement, of this Ordinance shall apply.

Effective on: 12/6/2022, as amended

Stables (Commercial, Boarding, or Private) may be established as primary or accessory uses provided they meet all applicable standards of this Ordinance and the following requirements. The term horse shall include horse(s) or other members of the horse family. Horses shall be boarded at a maximum ratio of one horse per one-half acre.

1. A.
   Commercial Stables:

   1. 1.
      A minimum Lot Area of five acres shall be required; otherwise, this use shall comply with the Special Exception procedures contained in this Ordinance.
   2. 2.
      Riding areas and trails shall be limited to the subject Parcel upon which the stable is located unless documentation is provided granting access onto other lands. Such documentation shall be provided through written and recorded documents.
   3. 3.
      If the subject site is less than or equal to five acres, a 25-foot vegetated buffer from any equestrian activity areas is required to adjoining Parcels. In lieu of a 25-foot vegetated buffer, a 75-foot Setback to equestrian activity areas from the side and rear property boundaries shall be provided.
   4. 4.
      If the subject site is greater than five acres, a 50-foot vegetated buffer from any equestrian activity areas is required to adjoining Parcels. In lieu of a 50-foot vegetated buffer, a 150-foot Setback to equestrian activity areas from the side and rear property boundaries shall be provided.
2. B.
   Private Stables in Zoning Districts subject to conditions shall require a minimum Lot Area of one acre; otherwise, this use shall comply with the Special Exception procedures contained in this Ordinance.
3. C.
   Boarding Stables:

   1. 1.
      A minimum Lot Area of five acres shall be required; otherwise, this use shall comply with the Special Exception procedures contained in this Ordinance.
   2. 2.
      Riding areas and trails shall be limited to the subject Parcel upon which the stable is located unless documentation is provided granting access onto other lands. Such documentation shall be provided through written and recorded documents.
   3. 3.
      Activities and access shall be limited to horses, their owners and caregivers, residents, and supporting services for maintenance of the property.
   4. 4.
      Boarding Stables shall be exempt from Art. 9.3, Off-Street Parking and Loading, with the exception of Sec. 9.3.6, Accessible Parking, and from Article 9.4, Landscaping, Screening, and Buffers.
   5. 5.
      The Limited Site Plan Review procedures of this Ordinance shall apply.
   6. 6.
      All Special Events shall follow Article 6.7, Special Events Use.

Effective on: 12/21/2023, as amended

1. A.

   Special Exception procedures shall apply for Parcel(s) totaling less than five acres in size.

2. B.

   Prior to Site Plan Review approval, the Applicant shall provide a copy of an approved permit from the State of South Carolina Department of Revenue, Alcohol Beverage Licensing. All Winery uses shall also comply with applicable agency requirements such as SCDPH requirements.

3. C.

   The following uses and activities are allowed pursuant to the requirements of this Section and all other applicable requirements of this Ordinance, including the requirements of Article 3.7, Site Plan Review:

   1. 1.

      On-premise sale of wine and related promotional items as well as wine consumption (tasting room and accessory retail limited to 1,500 square feet, days and hours of operation limited to Monday thru Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.);

   2. 2.

      Daily tours limited to Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.; and

   3. 3.

      Special Events must comply with the Special Events Use requirements of this Ordinance.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

Vehicle and Boat Repair or Service shall be subject to the following standards:

1. No outdoor storage of boats or vehicles shall be permitted; and
2. This use shall have a maximum Floor Area of 5,000 square feet, otherwise this use shall comply with the Special Exception procedures of this Ordinance.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

Charleston County hereby adopts the processes and procedures outlined in S.C Code Sec. 48-23-205 et. seq. (1976, as amended).

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

1. A.
   Replacement in R-4 and UR Zoning Districts. The replacement of a Manufactured Housing Unit shall be allowed by right in the R-4 and UR Districts if the Manufactured Housing Unit has been removed within 60 days of the receipt of the application by the Zoning and Planning Director. If the Manufactured Housing Unit was removed prior to 60 days of the receipt of the application, this use must comply with the requirements and procedures of 6.4.25B and C of this Section.
2. B.
   Requirements in RR, S-3, R-4, and UR Zoning Districts.  Manufactured Housing Units placed in the RR S-3,  R-4, and UR Zoning Districts shall be skirted by: manufactured skirting, or other materials suitable for exterior use, including corrosion-resistant metal, fiberglass/plastic, wood/wood siding (both must be protected from the elements by water resistant solution/substance), decay resistant wood/pressure treated lumber, and masonry concrete. The enclosed crawl space under the Manufactured Housing Unit must be ventilated. Skirting placed on Manufactured Housing Units in any Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Flood Hazard Boundary Area must comply with any applicable FEMA requirements.
3. C.
   Placement in R-4, and UR Zoning Districts. Placement of a Manufactured Housing Unit within the R-4 and UR Zoning Districts is conditional upon determination by the Zoning and Planning Director that:

   1. 1.
      The area within 300 feet of the Parcel proposed for Manufactured Housing Unit placement is characterized either entirely of Manufactured Housing Units or a mix of site built and Manufactured Housing Units. (The mix shall contain a minimum number of Manufactured Housing Units equivalent to 25 percent of the number of existing Principal Dwelling Units located on Parcels within 300 feet of the Subject Property); and
   2. 2.
      If the Zoning and Planning Director determines that the area is not characterized either entirely of Manufactured Housing Units or by a mix of site built and Manufactured Housing Units, the use shall comply with the Special Exception procedures of this Ordinance.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

1. A.
   Single-Family Detached Dwelling Units in the MHP, RO, GO, and NC Zoning Districts in the Urban/Suburban Area, as defined in the Comprehensive Plan, shall comply with the Density/Intensity and Dimensional Standards of the R-4 Zoning District. Single-Family Detached Dwelling Units in the CC and IN Zoning Districts in the Urban/Suburban Area, as defined in the Comprehensive Plan, shall comply with the Density/Intensity and Dimensional Standards of the UR Zoning District.
2. B.
   Single-Family Detached Dwelling Units in the MHP, RO, GO, NC, RC, RI, CC and IN Zoning Districts in the Rural Area, as defined in the Comprehensive Plan, shall comply with the Density/Intensity and Dimensional Standards of the AGR Zoning District.

(Ord. No. 2316, 10/29/2024)

Effective on: 10/29/2024, as amended

In Zoning Districts subject to which this condition applies, uses shall have a maximum Floor Area of 5,000 square feet or less; otherwise, this use shall comply with the Special Exception procedures of this Ordinance.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

The operation of Historic Site or Museum shall be restricted to the hours between 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m., otherwise this use shall comply with the Special Exception procedures of this Ordinance.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

1. The proposed use shall be at least 3,000 feet, measured from Lot Line to Lot Line, from another Short-Term Lender in the unincorporated area or incorporated area of Charleston County;

2. The proposed use shall be at least 300 feet, measured Lot Line to Lot Line, from any church, school, or Lot in a residential Zoning District or containing a residential use, whether located in the unincorporated area or incorporated area of Charleston County;

3. The proposed use shall be housed within a nonresidential Building having at least 30,000 square feet.

4. Short-Term Lenders shall not be allowed on properties that are zoned CC or IN in the Rural Area, as defined in the Charleston County Comprehensive Plan.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

A Family Home, as defined by this Ordinance, does not require compliance Site Plan Review procedures contained within this Ordinance.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

Indoor Shooting Ranges shall not be allowed in the  Neighborhood Commercial (NC) Zoning District.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

Uses to which this condition applies shall not be allowed on properties that are zoned CC or IN in the Rural Area, as defined in the Charleston County Comprehensive Plan.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

1. In the nonresidential Zoning Districts, Pet Stores, grooming salons, Small Animal Boarding and Veterinary Services shall have a maximum Floor Area of 2,000 square feet or less; otherwise these uses shall comply with the Special Exception procedures of this Ordinance
2. In the agricultural and residential Zoning Districts, Pet Stores, grooming salons, Small Animal Boarding and Veterinary Services shall have a maximum Floor Area of 1,500 square feet, otherwise these uses shall comply with the Special Exception procedures of this Ordinance.
3. Small Animal Boarding Outdoor Areas. 
   1. No more than five animals shall be allowed outdoors at any one time.
   2. Outdoor runs/open areas shall be restricted to the hours of 9.00am to 5.00pm .
   3. Outdoor areas shall be restricted to a maximum size of 1,000 square feet. 
   4. Play equipment shall not be provided outdoors.
   5. An opaque privacy fence a minimum of six feet in height shall be placed around outdoor play areas.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

1. Microbreweries located in the Community Commercial (CC) or Rural Industrial (RI) Zoning Districts shall have a maximum capacity of 5,000 barrels per year; otherwise, this use shall comply with the Special Exception procedures contained in this Ordinance.

2. Microbreweries and Distilleries located in the Community Commercial (CC) or Rural Industrial (RI) Zoning District shall require review and approval in accordance with the Special Exception procedures of this Ordinance if: (1) they allow on-site consumption of beer or alcoholic beverages in conjunction with the Microbrewery or Distillery use or an Accessory Use; and (2) they are located within 500 feet of the property line of a Lot in a residential Zoning District or a Lot containing a residential use. Distances shall be measured from the nearest property line of the Subject Parcel to the nearest property line of a Lot containing a residential use or located in a residential Zoning District.

3. All Accessory Uses and Structures shall comply with the requirements of Article 6.5 of this Ordinance.

4. All Special Events uses shall comply with the requirements of Article 6.7 of this Ordinance.

5. The Site Plan shall demonstrate that all required parking is maintained and remains unencumbered when third party vendors or Structures are onsite.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

1. In Zoning Districts subject to conditions (C), a Structure or Structures used for a Catering Service shall have a maximum Floor Area of 5,000 square feet.
2. In Zoning Districts subject to Special Exception provisions (S), a Structure or Structures used for a Catering Service shall have a maximum Floor Area of 2, 000 square feet.
3. On-site retail sales are prohibited.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

1. In the S-3 Zoning District, the dimensional standards of the UR Zoning District shall apply provided:

   1. The density shall not exceed three Principal Dwelling Units per acre;

   2. The Waterfront Development Standards of the S-3 Zoning District shall apply to development abutting the OCRM Critical Line;

   3. The Building Height requirements of the S-3 Zoning District shall apply; and

   4.  The architecture of the Dwellings is consistent with the character of the existing neighborhood as determined by the Zoning and Planning Director.
2. In the RO and R-4 Zoning Districts, the dimensional standards of the UR Zoning District shall apply provided:

   1. The density shall not exceed four Principal Dwelling Units per acre;

   2. The Waterfront Development Standards of the R-4 Zoning District shall apply to development abutting the OCRM Critical Line;

   3. The Building Height requirements of the R-4 Zoning District shall apply; and

   4.  The architecture of the Dwellings is consistent with the character of the existing neighborhood as determined by the Zoning and Planning Director.
3. In the GO, CI and NC Zoning Districts, the dimensional standards of the UR Zoning District shall apply provided:

   1. The density shall not exceed four Principal Dwelling Units per acre.

   2. The Waterfront Development Standards of the R-4 Zoning District shall apply to development abutting the OCRM Critical Line; and

   3. The Building Height requirements of the R-4 Zoning District shall apply.

4. In the MHS Zoning District, the dimensional standards of the UR Zoning District shall apply provided the density does not exceed six Principal Dwelling Units per acre.

   1. The density shall not exceed six Principal Dwelling Units per acre;

   2. The Waterfront Development Standards of the MHS Zoning District shall apply to development abutting the OCRM Critical Line; and

   3. The Building Height requirements of the MHS Zoning District shall apply.

5. In the UR Zoning District, the density, intensity, and dimensional standards of the UR Zoning District shall apply.
6. In the CC and IN Zoning Districts located in the Urban/Suburban Area, as defined in the Charleston County Comprehensive Plan, the Density/Intensity and Dimensional Standards of the UR Zoning District shall apply.
7. Such uses shall not be allowed on properties that are zoned CC or IN in the Rural Area, as defined in the Charleston County Comprehensive Plan.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

Special Trade Contractors shall be subject to the following standards:

1. Tractor trailer containers are prohibited in outside storage areas; and
2. In Zoning Districts subject to conditions (C), this use shall have a maximum area of 5,000 square feet including the Building and any outside storage, otherwise this use shall comply with the Special Exception procedures of this Ordinance.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

In the Civic/Institutional (CI) and Neighborhood Commercial (NC)  Zoning Districts, all Parking Lots shall have one Canopy Tree per six parking spaces and a maximum of 15 spaces in a row between Trees.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

Emergency Shelters shall comply with the following standards:

1. The maximum occupancy is six unrelated persons; otherwise, this use shall comply with the Special Exception requirements of this Ordinance.
2. If located in a Residential Zoning District or the Residential Office (RO) Zoning District, Structures shall be residential in character.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

If a Boat Yard, Charter Boat, or Recreational Watercraft Rental Service provides dry stack or wet slip storage of watercraft or direct access to the water, this use shall be considered a Water-Dependent Use and subject to the Water-Dependent Use requirements contained in Chapter 5, Overlay and Special Purpose Zoning Districts, of this Ordinance.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

Repair Service, Consumer shall be subject to the following standards:

1. In Zoning Districts subject to conditions (C), Repair Service, Consumer shall have a maximum Floor Area of 5,000 square feet or less; otherwise, this use shall comply with the Special Exception procedures of this Ordinance.
2. In the Neighborhood Commercial (NC) Zoning District, no outside storage will be allowed.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

The amount of storage for a Liquid Petroleum Gas Dealer shall be limited to 40,000 gallons per site.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

A Community Residential Care Facility that provides care for nine or fewer Persons is considered a Family and is an allowed use in all Zoning Districts pursuant to the Fair Housing Act, Sec. 800. [42 U.S.C. 3601].

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

1. Such use shall not cause injurious or obnoxious noise, vibrations, smoke, gas, fumes, odors, dust, fire hazards, radiation, or other conditions harmful or objectionable to adjacent or nearby properties.

2. All truck parking or loading facilities shall be located to the side or rear of the Building housing the use and outside required landscaped yards, and shall be screened from Rights-of-Way, Easements, and/or adjacent property zoned or used for residential or agricultural purposes.

3. Outdoor storage of materials is prohibited.

4. Operation of this use shall not create noise in excess of 80 dB as measured at the property boundary of the noise source using the fast meter response of a sound level meter, reduced to 70 dB maximum between the hours of 7 p.m. and 7 a.m.

5. Structures associated with this use shall be limited to a maximum Floor Area of 2,000 square feet.

6. No more than five non-resident employees shall be allowed.

7. All activities related to the Artisan and Craftsman use shall be confined to a Structure that is entirely enclosed.

8. Onsite retail sales are prohibited.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

1. Such uses shall have a maximum Floor Area of 5,000 square feet or less; otherwise, the use shall comply with the Special Exception procedures of this Ordinance.
2. Tractor-trailer containers are prohibited in outside storage areas.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

In the NC and CR Zoning Districts, accessory gasoline pumps shall be limited to a maximum of four nozzles, provided that five to eight 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 eight.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

The requirements of this Section shall apply to Solar Farms in addition to all other applicable sections of this Ordinance. These requirements do not apply to accessory Solar Collectors that provide energy to a single Dwelling, Building, or Structure.

1. The Lot proposed for the location of the Solar Farm must be a minimum of five acres in size. A Solar Farm may be located on multiple Lots if they are contiguous and in the same ownership. In such cases, the buffers and setbacks shall be established around the exterior perimeter of the Solar Farm.
2. Any portion of a Solar Farm must be located within two miles of an existing electrical transmission line. The Site Plan Review application must reflect all off-site infrastructure required to connect to the power grid.
3. Setbacks shall be equal to the required buffer.
4. The Solar Farm shall not exceed 16 feet in height, as measured from the ground to the foremost tip of the Solar Collector, provided there is a demonstration that the screening prevents the Solar Farm from being visible from the exterior of the property. Structures that are accessory to the system must comply with the Building Height requirements of the Zoning District in which the property is located provided that such Structures are not visible from the exterior of the property.
5. Documentation that all Solar Panels have the capacity to withstand a maximum coastal windspeed of 150 mph shall be submitted.
6. A security fence shall be required that is a minimum of six feet in height and designed to secure the facility from the public. The security fence shall be located at or near the inside line of the buffer.
7. The table below establishes the buffer requirements. Unless otherwise stated, the buffer is to be located along all Lot Lines. The buffer shall utilize native vegetation if available and shall not be cleared or trees cut as the intention is to completely screen the Solar Farm from view off-site. Buffers may be reduced by half if the site is certified through the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources as a South Carolina Certified Solar Habitat.

8. Any disturbed soil on site shall be revegetated with native groundcover vegetation, including areas in the buffers and among the solar panels. Revegetation with plants from the lists of recommended native plants from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources is strongly encouraged.

9. Gravel shall be limited to access roads only.

10. Solar Collectors shall be designed with anti-reflective coating to minimize glare. Provisions for the use of adequate technology and construction methods such as anti-reflective coating or textured glass used as panel materials shall be required to prevent and deflect bird deaths. Mirrors shall be prohibited.

11. On-site Electrical interconnections and powerlines shall be installed underground. Existing above ground Utility lines shall be allowed to remain in their current location.

12. All components servicing the collector panels shall be concealed, including mechanical piping and conduits.

13. All exposed metal shall be of a color that will blend into its surroundings.

14. A warning sign concerning voltage shall be placed at the main entrance that includes the name of the facility operator and a local telephone number.

15. The entrance Roadway shall include a dogleg or meander to obscure vision from the Street.

16. Access to the site shall be controlled by a security gate.

17. If lighting is provided at the site, such lighting shall be installed so that light does not shine toward adjacent parcels.

18. The solar panels shall be designed and installed such that glare is not directed toward a Street in order not to create a traffic hazard. Additionally, glare shall not be created that is directed toward adjacent Lots.

19. The applicant shall provide a decommissioning plan signed by both the owner/operator of the facility and the Lot owner, if different. Such plan shall describe the expected life of the Solar Farm and the estimated cost to decommission the site, in current dollars, including restoration of the site to its original condition, and shall identify the party responsible for decommissioning. Decommissioning shall be required following a continuous period of 12 months in which no electricity is generated by the facility other than for mechanical, repair, replacement and/or maintenance purposes. Decommissioning plans shall be recorded in the Charleston County Register of Deeds Office and shall run with the land to successor owners/Operators. Decommissioning shall be completed within 12 months of the recording of the decommissioning plan. The requirements of the Zoning District in which the property is located shall apply following decommissioning.

    The owners of Solar Farms shall be required to post and maintain a Financial Guarantee for the decommissioning plan in the form of a no-contest, irrevocable bank letter of credit or performance and payment bond underwritten by an acceptable South Carolina licensed corporate surety, subject to County attorney approval of the guarantee to determine that the interests of Charleston County are fully protected. The applicant shall submit to the County a detailed itemized unit cost estimate for the Financial Guarantee. The amount of the Financial Guarantee shall be sufficient to guarantee completion of the decommissioning plan (150 percent of the actual cost of the decommissioning plan) within the time period specified in this Section. The amount of the Financial Guarantee shall be verified by the County.

    Upon completion of the decommissioning plan as required by this Section, Written Notice thereof shall be given by the applicant to the bond holder, who shall cause an inspection of the site to be made. The bond holder will, within 30 days of the date of notice, authorize in writing the release of the security given, provided the decommissioning plan has been completed in accordance with the required specifications. Should the decommissioning plan not be completed in accordance with the required specifications by the date originally stipulated in writing by the bond holder, the funds derived from said bond will be used by the bond holder to complete the decommissioning plan according to required specifications, at the earliest reasonable time. Where it appears that the bond was insufficient to finance the required decommissioning plan after the Applicant has defaulted, County Council will assess the individual Applicant the cost of the decommissioning plan over and above the surety amount.

    In no instance will the bond issuer or bond holder be authorized to extend for the applicant the completion date originally stipulated. Pro-rated refunds based on a percentage of overall completion shall not be authorized, with the exception of an irrevocable bank letter of credit.

 ​​​​​

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

Farmers Markets in Residential Zoning Districts are subject to the following conditions:

1. The Lot must be a minimum of three Highland acres in size.
2. Hours of operation must be between 9:00am and 6:00pm.
3. Farmers Markets can operate a maximum of 120 days per calendar year.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

1. Services to Buildings or Dwellings. In Zoning Districts subject to conditions (C), Services to Buildings or Dwellings shall have a maximum Floor Area of 5,000 square feet or less; otherwise this use shall comply with the Special Exception procedures of this Ordinance.
2. Landscaping and Horticultural Services.
   1. Landscaping and Horticultural Services located in the NC Zoning District shall, in addition to the requirement to comply with the Special Exception (S) provisions contained in the Ordinance, comply with the following conditions:
      1. Any Structure or Structures used for a Landscaping and Horticultural Service use shall have a maximum Floor Area of 5,000 square feet;
      2. The maximum number of employees shall be limited to 15, including employees dispatched from the site and seasonal employees;
      3. The hours of operation shall not exceed Monday through Friday, 7:00am to 7:00pm;
      4. The subject property shall be a minimum of three acres in size;
      5. There shall be direct access to a public Arterial Street;
      6. A minimum 25-foot Landscape Buffer and a minimum six-foot high opaque wooden fence within the Landscape Buffer shall be required adjacent to residential uses and Zoning Districts; and
      7. The number of parking spaces required shall include the number of employees and the number of company vehicles and trailers to be utilized in conjunction with this use.
   2. Landscaping and Horticultural Services located in the RM, AG-15, AG-10, AG-8, and RC Zoning Districts shall comply with the following conditions:
      1. Any Structure or Structures used for landscaping services shall have a maximum Floor Area of 5,000 square feet; otherwise, this use shall comply with the Special Exception provisions of this Ordinance.
      2. The Subject Property shall be a minimum of five acres in size if zoned RM, AG-15, AG-10, or AG-8 or a minimum of three acres in size if zoned RC;
      3. There shall be direct access to a public Arterial Street;
      4. A minimum 25 foot Landscape Buffer and a minimum six foot high opaque wooden fence within the Landscape Buffer shall be required adjacent to residential uses and Zoning Districts; and
      5. The number of parking spaces required shall include the number of employees and the number of company vehicles and trailers to be utilized in conjunction with this use.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

Freight Forwarding Facilities shall have a maximum Floor Area of 10,000 square feet or less; otherwise, this use shall comply with the Special Exception procedures of this Ordinance.

Effective on: 1/1/1901, as amended

Golf Courses and Country Clubs shall be subject to the following standards and criteria:

1. An impact analysis must be submitted that indicates the potential number of members, the characteristics of the Golf Course or County Club membership, a traffic impact analysis and a complete site analysis as detailed below:
   1. Required Site Analysis. The layout of any Golf Course or Country Club shall be determined after preparing the required site analysis. The detailed site analysis will be done in order to identify the site's most significant environmental, historic, cultural, and natural resources. The site analysis will include:
      1. Characteristics of a vegetation survey related to land use will describe principal, predominant, and significant vegetation, by type, condition, age, use, and general or specific location. Features in the survey will include Trees and Shrubs, agricultural fields, treelines, native vegetation, orchards, groves, woodlots, pastures, wetlands, forests, and grasslands. The vegetation survey shall indicate any significantly large Trees or endangered plant or Animal species that may reside on the site and is protected by law.
      2. Historic resources located within the proposed golf course development must be identified on the Plat. Sources such as the County of Charleston Historical Survey (1991), state registers, and federal registers such as the National Register of Historic Places shall be utilized in identifying these resources. The historical survey is important for noting structures and areas that must be protected as designated landmarks.
      3. Land use on adjacent properties shall be identified. Features such as, but not limited to, roads, rice dams, traditional Settlement Areas, Cemeteries, clusters of Structures, parks, Marinas, and logging areas shall be shown.
      4. All water features including streams and sensitive areas on the site, such as wetlands and riparian corridors, must be located. The purpose of locating these features is to limit disturbance of soil and vegetation that affect water quality features. Hydrography shall be used to determine where water required Wetland Buffers and other requirements such as Drainage Easements will be located. Wetland Buffers of 50 feet are required on all saltwater marshes, and 35 feet on all protected Freshwater Wetlands. All water bodies - rivers, streams, drainage channels, marshes or wetland, floodplains and aquifers must be inventoried or identified.
      5. The purpose of identifying wildlife areas is to assess the ecological conditions of the landscape and to provide continuation of these habitat areas. Features of this survey shall include the presence of any threatened or endangered species, natural areas vital to wildlife species, habitat areas that are connected to larger undisturbed natural habitat (connected habitat system). Through this method the study will develop key points or areas that should be left undeveloped, then define those areas most suitable for development.
2. Within the OS, RM, AG, AGR, RR, S-3,  R-4, and MHS Zoning Districts, only Audubon International "Signature Program" Golf Courses will be allowed.
3. Potential sites should be selected which allow the Golf Course or Country Club to be routed in such a way as to minimize the need to alter, create or remove existing native landscapes, Trees, and vegetation, and which provide opportunities for restoration/enhancement of valuable habitat.
4. Sites which have Archaeologically or Geologically significant and sensitive or critical habitat or environmental features shall be identified and either relocated or preserved through careful Golf Course or Country Club design. Permanent Open Space Easements or other techniques may be used, as appropriate, to effect preservation. The site design shall identify areas for restoration, replanting, and enhancement of riparian and littoral habitat to re-establish wildlife migration corridors and lineages between fragmented habitat areas. Protection and planned restoration/enhancements for such areas during construction and ongoing operation must be ensured. Native habitats and communities of special value to threatened/endangered species shall be preserved to the greatest extent possible, consistent with State and Federal regulation.
5. Each site selected [as a] Golf Course Development will likely have a variety of habitat types present. These habitat types must be identified and provisions made for routing of the course or relocation of the species.
6. The site plan should protect drainage systems that support retained vegetation. Ponds shall be developed which mimic conditions in terms of both aesthetics and habitat.
7. Structures and Buildings should be located such that impacts to habitats and significant natural areas are avoided.
8. Design and Construction Standards.
   1. Marshes, Creeks and Wetlands.
      1. The Golf Course or Country Club design must attempt to minimize the number of marsh, creek, or wetland crossings. Marsh, creek or wetland crossings must be designed in such a way to minimize erosion and harmful effects of significant habitat and migration corridors.
      2. Bridges must minimize alteration of the marsh, creek, or wetland environment.
      3. Design must create and restore riparian habitat, especially in previously degraded habitat areas, and must reduce the impact of alterations necessitated by design and construction of the course.
      4. The course design must employ vegetated buffer strips of sufficient width to mitigate impacts to riparian corridors and other significant habitat which may result from surface drainage of the Golf Course, cart paths, and other developed areas. In certain circumstances where riparian vegetation has been degraded or does not exist, turf grass, and rough areas may be located in closer proximity to the marshes, creeks, and wetlands.
      5. Cart paths must be graded such that runoff from them generally does not flow directly into any marsh, creek or wetland.
      6. Construction fencing/siltation barriers must be utilized during the construction phase where needed to protect habitat and marsh, creek, or wetland areas.
   2. Trees.
      1. The selected site must not be heavily forested (with more than 60 percent tree canopy coverage).
      2. The design of the course and related facilities must maximize the preservation of clusters or significant stands of Trees, particularly Grand Trees, and otherwise preserve "interior" habitat areas.
      3. Irrigation systems shall be designated to avoid impacting existing oaks or other sensitive vegetation.
      4. If required by the Zoning and Planning Director, a certified professional arborist, botanist, or forester shall be employed by the Applicant to evaluate the status of the Trees and related habitats on the site and provide direction for restoration and/or enhancement of impacted Trees.
      5. Cart paths within the Drip Lines of Trees slated for preservation must be grated in such a way as to not damage or stress the Tree.
      6. Barriers (Curbs, fencing, vegetation, etc.) should be established to discourage cart and pedestrian travel off paths located within or adjacent to sensitive habitat.
   3. Water Quality.
      1. Lined artificial storage ponds must not be located in prime groundwater recharge areas.
      2. Turf grass species and landscaping around Buildings should be selected which are drought resistant or tolerant and which are suited for any special site characteristics or soil conditions.
      3. State-of-the-art irrigation systems with site meteorological monitoring capability should be used to minimize water use.
      4. If on-site wells or ponds are to be used as the irrigation water source, analysis will be required to determine the safe yield in order to prevent aquifer, off-site wells and/or marsh, creek or wetland depletion. The Developer will be held responsible for any negative impact on water supplies to adjacent or nearby properties.
      5. Paved areas should be limited in order to minimize impermeable surfaces, and thereby reduce surface runoff.
      6. The project should employ established best management practices pursuant to the Non-Point Source Program guidelines to control non-point source (stormwater) runoff pollution. For example: impervious liners for Detention/retention ponds and water hazards to protect ground and surface water quality; buffer strips, oil/grease separators or other recommended techniques for parking area drainage systems; grease traps and other recommended technologies for facilities such as golf cart maintenance or wash areas to prevent untreated runoff from entering the natural aquatic environmental Berms, vegetative strips, grease traps, or other recommended technologies in parking areas for drainage controls to minimize pollution to nearby riparian areas ad surface waters.
      7. The overall drainage system should be designed to ensure that there is no increase in the velocity or amount of off-site flows during major storm events.
   4. Archaeology.
      1. The design of the course must preserve significant archaeological areas and/or historic features present on the site.
      2. Significant archaeological sites must be staked, flagged, or fenced off to insure their protection.
   5. Noise.
      1. Where possible, clubhouse facilities and other noise-generating uses and facilities should be located away from neighbors who might be impacted.
      2. Roads must be sited such that traffic noise is minimized for adjacent areas.
   6. Growth-Inducing Impacts.
      1. The project should not provide infrastructure improvements that would be capable of serving new Development other than the proposed project.
      2. The project should not stimulate economic expansion or growth (e.g. major changes in tax revenue base, employment expansion, etc.) other than that necessary to serve the proposed project.
      3. The project should not establish a precedent for significant change in current Comprehensive Plan policy.
      4. In cases where the Golf Course or Country Club Developer owns lands adjacent to the project site, a plan for the potential Development of those adjacent lands should be submitted for evaluation.
      5. Deed restrictions, Open Space Easements, or other appropriate techniques must be used to mitigate or prevent growth-inducing impacts inside the Development.
9. Notification. Upon the receipt of a Complete Application for a Golf Course or Country Club, the Zoning and Planning Department shall notify neighbors within a 300-foot radius, Parties in Interest and place notification in the newspaper within 10 days. All notifications shall be done in accordance with the provisions contained in Chapter 3, Development Review Procedures, of this Ordinance.