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Kings Mountain City Zoning Code

§ 156.10

Zoning Districts and Standards

156.10.01 Official Zoning Map

  • (A)
    Incorporated by Reference. The Official Zoning Map for the City and all notations, references, and other information shown on the map are incorporated by reference and made a part of this UDO and have the same legal force and effect as the UDO.
  • (B)
    Official Zoning Map Adopted. Zoning districts are shown on the map entitled "Official Zoning Map" of the City of Kings Mountain which is made part of this UDO.
  • (C)
    Status. The map that is officially on file at City Hall is available for public inspection. This map shall control in the event of a conflict between the official map and any other reproduction of the map.
  • (D)
    Interpretations. Where the map appears to be unclear regarding the location of district boundaries, the Administrator, or at the Administrator's discretion, the Planning & Zoning Board, shall make a determination using the following criteria:
    1. (1)
      Rights-of-Way or Easements. Where boundary lines appear to follow existing streets, alleys, railroad tracks, utility lines, or similar features, the zoning boundary shall be construed to follow the center line of the rights-of-way or easement. Where the location of these features on the ground differs from that shown on the Official Zoning Map, the features on the ground control.
    2. (2)
      City Limits. Where district boundaries are indicated as approximately following the City limits, such City limits shall be considered the district boundaries.
    3. (3)
      Property Lines. Where the boundaries are indicated as approximately following property or other lot lines, such lines shall be construed to be the boundaries.
    4. (4)
      Watercourses. Boundaries shown as following, or approximately following, the centerline of drainage ways, streams, creeks, water bodies including the reservoirs and lakes, or other watercourses shall be construed as following the channel centerline. In the event of a natural change in the location of such watercourses, the district boundary shall be construed as moving with the channel centerline.
    5. (5)
      Unsubdivided Land or No Identifiable Feature. On unsubdivided land, or where a district boundary does not follow an identifiable feature, the location of the boundary, unless the same is indicated by dimensions, shall be determined by applying, in order, the following rules:
      1. (a)
        Legal Description. The boundary shall be according to the legal description in the ordinance establishing the district boundaries.
      2. (b)
        Text Dimensions. The boundary shall be located by reference to dimensions shown in the text on the Official Zoning Map, if any.
      3. (c)
        Map Scale. The boundary shall be located using the map scale appearing on the Official Zoning Map.
    6. (6)
      Vacation or Abandonment. Where a public street, alley, or parcel of land is officially vacated or abandoned, the regulations applicable to the abutting property apply equally to the vacated or abandoned street or alley.
  • (E)
    Conflicts Resolved. In the event of a conflict between the district boundaries on the Official Zoning Map and the zoning of property provided by a duly enacted rezoning ordinance adopted before the effective date of this UDO, the Official Zoning Map shall control.

    • Effective on: 1/1/1901

    156.10.02 Zoning District Establishment

  • (A)
    Generally.  The City of Kings Mountain and its extraterritorial jurisdiction is divided into zoning districts according to Table 156.10.02-1, Zoning Districts, below, which specifies each district along with the recommended land use category from the Future Land Use Map of the Comprehensive Plan.  Pursuant to NCGS 160D, this UDO must be consistent with the map and plan.  This section describes the relationship between the zoning districts and the land use map and categories described in the plan.  
  • (B)
    Jurisdiction.  For the purpose of this UDO and as established in 156.00.01, the zoning jurisdiction of the City of Kings Mountain shall include the land within the corporate limits of the city and that land located between these limits and the boundaries established in the municipal ordinance establishing extraterritorial jurisdiction boundaries.
  • (C)
    Zoning Districts Established.  For the purpose of this ordinance, the City of Kings Mountain, North Carolina, and the area comprising its extraterritorial zoning jurisdiction are hereby divided into the following use districts:
    1. (1)
      Base Districts.  
      1. (a)
        The districts set forth in the table below are those for uses permitted by right (P), those with supplemental standards known as limited uses (L), or those subject to a quasi-judicial public hearing by special use permit (S).  These base districts shall be established by City Council and amended according to regulations set forth in 156.100.16 and 156.100.17. 
      2. (b)
        Within each district is a series of by-right development options that provide for different types and forms of development suitable in various areas of the City and its planning area. 
    2. (2)
      Overlay Districts.  The Zoning Districts established in 156.10 may also include Overlay Districts as designated herein and shown on the Official Zoning Map. In such a case, the land is subject to the requirements of the underlying Zoning District and the additional provisions of the Overlay District.
  • (D)
    Rules Governing Interpretation of District Boundaries​​​​​​.  Where uncertainty exists as to boundaries of any of the aforesaid districts as shown on the zoning map, the following rules shall apply:
    1. (1)
      Where district boundaries are indicated as approximately following street, alley, or highway lines, such lines shall be construed to be the boundaries.
    2. (2)
      Where district boundaries are indicated that they approximately follow lot lines such lot lines shall be construed to be the boundaries.
    3. (3)
      Where district boundaries are indicated that they are approximately parallel to the center line of streets, alleys or highways, or the rights-of-way of same, the district boundaries shall be construed as being parallel thereto and at the distance therefrom as indicated on the zoning map.
    4. (4)
      Where district boundaries are indicated as following topographic contours, drainage divides or specific measured distances such features shall be construed to be such boundaries.
    5. (5)
      Where any street or alley is hereafter officially closed, vacated or abandoned, the zoning district adjoining each side of the street or alley shall be automatically extended to the center of the street or alley, and all lands which are included in the closed portion shall thereafter be subject to the regulations of the extended districts.
    6. (6)
      If further uncertainty exists as to the location of boundaries or applicability of zoning districts, City Council shall interpret the intent of the zoning maps as to the location of such boundaries, and the applicability of such districts, and may order the zoning map corrected.
    • Table 156.10.02-1, Zoning Districts
     Zoning DistrictFuture Land Use CategoryDevelopment Type (By-Right)Purpose Former Zoning District
    Rural and Residential

    Rural (RU)

    		Rural

    Standard Lot (S)

    		The preservation of natural areas, continuation of agricultural uses, and accommodation of very low-density residential development in the extraterritorial jurisdiction and the outlying areas of the city limits where infrastructure is not available and urban development is premature or inappropriate.None
    Suburban Residential (SR)SuburbanStandard Lot (S)Single-family detached residential development on moderately sized lots within a platted subdivision where municipal water or wastewater may or may not be available.  After 7/1/21, lots in existing platted SR subdivisions shall follow the list of uses in the matrix under (S). R-20, R-10, R-9
    Planned (PL)Single-family detached and attached residential development that is master planned to include common open space for preserving on-site resources, buffering single and multi-family development, and providing for parks, recreational facilities and trails. Municipal water and wastewater must be available to serve this development type. This option is available for Major Subdivisions only.
    Semi-Urban Residential (SU)Semi-UrbanStandard Lot (S)Single-family detached residential development on a moderately sized lot within a platted subdivision that is served with municipal water and wastewater services. A modest amount of common open space is required for on-site drainage ways and improvements.  After 7/1/21, lots in existing platted SU subdivisions shall follow the list of uses in the matrix under (S).RS-8, R-8, RS-6, R-6, R-O
    Planned (PL)A master planned development that may include a variety of housing types and neighborhood office and commercial uses organized around common open space areas used to buffer single- and multi-family and nonresidential development and as linear greenways and linkages within and around the property and connections to adjacent properties. This option is available for Major Subdivisions only.
    Recreational Community (RC)Recreational CommunityPlanned (PL)An area designed for up to 50 lots in a development in a small recreational setting.  See 156.50.07.R-10
    Nonresidential and Mixed Use
    Suburban Commercial (SC)SuburbanSmall Offices and ShopsOffice and limited retail uses that serve the daily needs of nearby residents with building and site design standards to ensure good transitions and use compatibility.O, N-B
    Auto-Urban Commercial (AU)Auto-UrbanCommercial Sites and CentersA broad range of single use and multi-tenant centers that are located along high traffic corridors and intersections, vary in scale, provide for entertainment, vehicle and retail sales and service, and office uses and typically have on-site, surface parking.G-B
    Central Business (CB)UrbanDowntownThe traditional central business district with a compact pedestrian-friendly scale, urban character, and mixing of uses typical for the core of the city.C-B
    Mixed Use (MU)

    Semi-Urban

    Auto-Urban

    		Walkable CenterWithin the Mixed—Use (MU) Zoning District, there must exist multiple “uses”, being combinations of residential and/or retail/commercial and light industrial. “Mixed-Residential”, being defined as Multiple product types, density, or varying classifications of residential will not qualify as “mixed use”. Within the MU Zone there is required 10,000 gross square feet of commercial/retail for the first 100 units of residential; and 5,000 gross square feet of commercial/retail for each successive 100 units of residential thereafter, with minimums pro-rated for additions of residential units in increments less than 100. While Mixed-use can allow for self-storage and/or mini-warehouse (light industrial) in combination with residential, any inclusion of such light industrial uses do not qualify or substitute for the requirement to provide minimum gross square footage of commercial/retail as prescribed herein.None
    Hospitality (HT)Auto-UrbanHospitality and Entertainment Campus

    A mixture of residential, commercial and entertainment uses in a horizontal and/or vertical format, which is designed for the area surrounding a major entertainment venue or in a focused hospitality setting. 

    		None
    Business and Industrial
    Heavy Industrial (HI)Auto-UrbanHeavy IndustryA mixture of light and heavy industrial uses located away from residential areas that may include manufacturing of raw materials, fabrication, assembly, and warehousing with both indoor and outdoor storage, and may have heavy truck and traffic.H-I
    Light Industrial (LI)Auto-UrbanLight IndustryLight industrial uses located away from residential areas that may include fabrication and assembly that does not meet the standard of heavy industry and warehousing with both indoor and outdoor storage, and may have heavy truck and traffic.L-I
    Special Purpose and Overlay Districts
    Historic District (HD)*VariesHistoric

    An overlay to establish regulations which will help maintain the historic integrity of certain areas within the City. 

     

    *Until such time that the City of Kings Mountain is represented by an HPC, this district and the regulations herein shall not be enforced. 

    		HD
    Planned Development (PD)VariesVariesA planned mixed use development on large acreage that is specifically designed to blend and ensure compatibility with surrounding land uses, to preserve critical environmental resources, and to allow a phased approach to development subject to the standards of 156.20.02 and in compliance with a site plan approved in accordance with 156.100.17.   
    Existing Conditional Districts (prior to 7/1/21)
    Existing - Conditional District (E-CD)VariesVariesA district to designate existing conditional districts prior to 7/1/21. Varies
    Table 156.10.02-1, Zoning Districts
     Zoning DistrictFuture Land Use CategoryDevelopment Type (By-Right)Purpose Former Zoning District
    Rural and Residential

    Rural (RU)

    		Rural

    Standard Lot (S)

    		The preservation of natural areas, continuation of agricultural uses, and accommodation of very low-density residential development in the extraterritorial jurisdiction and the outlying areas of the city limits where infrastructure is not available and urban development is premature or inappropriate.None
    Suburban Residential (SR)SuburbanStandard Lot (S)Single-family detached residential development on moderately sized lots within a platted subdivision where municipal water or wastewater may or may not be available.  After 7/1/21, lots in existing platted SR subdivisions shall follow the list of uses in the matrix under (S). R-20, R-10, R-9
    Planned (PL)Single-family detached and attached residential development that is master planned to include common open space for preserving on-site resources, buffering single and multi-family development, and providing for parks, recreational facilities and trails. Municipal water and wastewater must be available to serve this development type. This option is available for Major Subdivisions only.
    Semi-Urban Residential (SU)Semi-UrbanStandard Lot (S)Single-family detached residential development on a moderately sized lot within a platted subdivision that is served with municipal water and wastewater services. A modest amount of common open space is required for on-site drainage ways and improvements.  After 7/1/21, lots in existing platted SU subdivisions shall follow the list of uses in the matrix under (S).RS-8, R-8, RS-6, R-6, R-O
    Planned (PL)A master planned development that may include a variety of housing types and neighborhood office and commercial uses organized around common open space areas used to buffer single- and multi-family and nonresidential development and as linear greenways and linkages within and around the property and connections to adjacent properties. This option is available for Major Subdivisions only.
    Recreational Community (RC)Recreational CommunityPlanned (PL)An area designed for up to 50 lots in a development in a small recreational setting.  See 156.50.07.R-10
    Nonresidential and Mixed Use
    Suburban Commercial (SC)SuburbanSmall Offices and ShopsOffice and limited retail uses that serve the daily needs of nearby residents with building and site design standards to ensure good transitions and use compatibility.O, N-B
    Auto-Urban Commercial (AU)Auto-UrbanCommercial Sites and CentersA broad range of single use and multi-tenant centers that are located along high traffic corridors and intersections, vary in scale, provide for entertainment, vehicle and retail sales and service, and office uses and typically have on-site, surface parking.G-B
    Central Business (CB)UrbanDowntownThe traditional central business district with a compact pedestrian-friendly scale, urban character, and mixing of uses typical for the core of the city.C-B
    Mixed Use (MU)

    Semi-Urban

    Auto-Urban

    		Walkable CenterWithin the Mixed—Use (MU) Zoning District, there must exist multiple “uses”, being combinations of residential and/or retail/commercial and light industrial. “Mixed-Residential”, being defined as Multiple product types, density, or varying classifications of residential will not qualify as “mixed use”. Within the MU Zone there is required 10,000 gross square feet of commercial/retail for the first 100 units of residential; and 5,000 gross square feet of commercial/retail for each successive 100 units of residential thereafter, with minimums pro-rated for additions of residential units in increments less than 100. While Mixed-use can allow for self-storage and/or mini-warehouse (light industrial) in combination with residential, any inclusion of such light industrial uses do not qualify or substitute for the requirement to provide minimum gross square footage of commercial/retail as prescribed herein.None
    Hospitality (HT)Auto-UrbanHospitality and Entertainment Campus

    A mixture of residential, commercial and entertainment uses in a horizontal and/or vertical format, which is designed for the area surrounding a major entertainment venue or in a focused hospitality setting. 

    		None
    Business and Industrial
    Heavy Industrial (HI)Auto-UrbanHeavy IndustryA mixture of light and heavy industrial uses located away from residential areas that may include manufacturing of raw materials, fabrication, assembly, and warehousing with both indoor and outdoor storage, and may have heavy truck and traffic.H-I
    Light Industrial (LI)Auto-UrbanLight IndustryLight industrial uses located away from residential areas that may include fabrication and assembly that does not meet the standard of heavy industry and warehousing with both indoor and outdoor storage, and may have heavy truck and traffic.L-I
    Special Purpose and Overlay Districts
    Historic District (HD)*VariesHistoric

    An overlay to establish regulations which will help maintain the historic integrity of certain areas within the City. 

     

    *Until such time that the City of Kings Mountain is represented by an HPC, this district and the regulations herein shall not be enforced. 

    		HD
    Planned Development (PD)VariesVariesA planned mixed use development on large acreage that is specifically designed to blend and ensure compatibility with surrounding land uses, to preserve critical environmental resources, and to allow a phased approach to development subject to the standards of 156.20.02 and in compliance with a site plan approved in accordance with 156.100.17.   
    Existing Conditional Districts (prior to 7/1/21)
    Existing - Conditional District (E-CD)VariesVariesA district to designate existing conditional districts prior to 7/1/21. Varies
    Table 156.10.02-1, Zoning Districts
     Zoning DistrictFuture Land Use CategoryDevelopment Type (By-Right)Purpose Former Zoning District
    Rural and Residential

    Rural (RU)

    		Rural

    Standard Lot (S)

    		The preservation of natural areas, continuation of agricultural uses, and accommodation of very low-density residential development in the extraterritorial jurisdiction and the outlying areas of the city limits where infrastructure is not available and urban development is premature or inappropriate.None
    Suburban Residential (SR)SuburbanStandard Lot (S)Single-family detached residential development on moderately sized lots within a platted subdivision where municipal water or wastewater may or may not be available.  After 7/1/21, lots in existing platted SR subdivisions shall follow the list of uses in the matrix under (S). R-20, R-10, R-9
    Planned (PL)Single-family detached and attached residential development that is master planned to include common open space for preserving on-site resources, buffering single and multi-family development, and providing for parks, recreational facilities and trails. Municipal water and wastewater must be available to serve this development type. This option is available for Major Subdivisions only.
    Semi-Urban Residential (SU)Semi-UrbanStandard Lot (S)Single-family detached residential development on a moderately sized lot within a platted subdivision that is served with municipal water and wastewater services. A modest amount of common open space is required for on-site drainage ways and improvements.  After 7/1/21, lots in existing platted SU subdivisions shall follow the list of uses in the matrix under (S).RS-8, R-8, RS-6, R-6, R-O
    Planned (PL)A master planned development that may include a variety of housing types and neighborhood office and commercial uses organized around common open space areas used to buffer single- and multi-family and nonresidential development and as linear greenways and linkages within and around the property and connections to adjacent properties. This option is available for Major Subdivisions only.
    Recreational Community (RC)Recreational CommunityPlanned (PL)An area designed for up to 50 lots in a development in a small recreational setting.  See 156.50.07.R-10
    Nonresidential and Mixed Use
    Suburban Commercial (SC)SuburbanSmall Offices and ShopsOffice and limited retail uses that serve the daily needs of nearby residents with building and site design standards to ensure good transitions and use compatibility.O, N-B
    Auto-Urban Commercial (AU)Auto-UrbanCommercial Sites and CentersA broad range of single use and multi-tenant centers that are located along high traffic corridors and intersections, vary in scale, provide for entertainment, vehicle and retail sales and service, and office uses and typically have on-site, surface parking.G-B
    Central Business (CB)UrbanDowntownThe traditional central business district with a compact pedestrian-friendly scale, urban character, and mixing of uses typical for the core of the city.C-B
    Mixed Use (MU)

    Semi-Urban

    Auto-Urban

    		Walkable CenterWithin the Mixed—Use (MU) Zoning District, there must exist multiple “uses”, being combinations of residential and/or retail/commercial and light industrial. “Mixed-Residential”, being defined as Multiple product types, density, or varying classifications of residential will not qualify as “mixed use”. Within the MU Zone there is required 10,000 gross square feet of commercial/retail for the first 100 units of residential; and 5,000 gross square feet of commercial/retail for each successive 100 units of residential thereafter, with minimums pro-rated for additions of residential units in increments less than 100. While Mixed-use can allow for self-storage and/or mini-warehouse (light industrial) in combination with residential, any inclusion of such light industrial uses do not qualify or substitute for the requirement to provide minimum gross square footage of commercial/retail as prescribed herein.None
    Hospitality (HT)Auto-UrbanHospitality and Entertainment Campus

    A mixture of residential, commercial and entertainment uses in a horizontal and/or vertical format, which is designed for the area surrounding a major entertainment venue or in a focused hospitality setting. 

    		None
    Business and Industrial
    Heavy Industrial (HI)Auto-UrbanHeavy IndustryA mixture of light and heavy industrial uses located away from residential areas that may include manufacturing of raw materials, fabrication, assembly, and warehousing with both indoor and outdoor storage, and may have heavy truck and traffic.H-I
    Light Industrial (LI)Auto-UrbanLight IndustryLight industrial uses located away from residential areas that may include fabrication and assembly that does not meet the standard of heavy industry and warehousing with both indoor and outdoor storage, and may have heavy truck and traffic.L-I
    Special Purpose and Overlay Districts
    Historic District (HD)*VariesHistoric

    An overlay to establish regulations which will help maintain the historic integrity of certain areas within the City. 

     

    *Until such time that the City of Kings Mountain is represented by an HPC, this district and the regulations herein shall not be enforced. 

    		HD
    Planned Development (PD)VariesVariesA planned mixed use development on large acreage that is specifically designed to blend and ensure compatibility with surrounding land uses, to preserve critical environmental resources, and to allow a phased approach to development subject to the standards of 156.20.02 and in compliance with a site plan approved in accordance with 156.100.17.   
    Existing Conditional Districts (prior to 7/1/21)
    Existing - Conditional District (E-CD)VariesVariesA district to designate existing conditional districts prior to 7/1/21. Varies
    Table 156.10.02-1, Zoning Districts
     Zoning DistrictFuture Land Use CategoryDevelopment Type (By-Right)Purpose Former Zoning District
    Rural and Residential

    Rural (RU)

    		Rural

    Standard Lot (S)

    		The preservation of natural areas, continuation of agricultural uses, and accommodation of very low-density residential development in the extraterritorial jurisdiction and the outlying areas of the city limits where infrastructure is not available and urban development is premature or inappropriate.None
    Suburban Residential (SR)SuburbanStandard Lot (S)Single-family detached residential development on moderately sized lots within a platted subdivision where municipal water or wastewater may or may not be available.  After 7/1/21, lots in existing platted SR subdivisions shall follow the list of uses in the matrix under (S). R-20, R-10, R-9
    Planned (PL)Single-family detached and attached residential development that is master planned to include common open space for preserving on-site resources, buffering single and multi-family development, and providing for parks, recreational facilities and trails. Municipal water and wastewater must be available to serve this development type. This option is available for Major Subdivisions only.
    Semi-Urban Residential (SU)Semi-UrbanStandard Lot (S)Single-family detached residential development on a moderately sized lot within a platted subdivision that is served with municipal water and wastewater services. A modest amount of common open space is required for on-site drainage ways and improvements.  After 7/1/21, lots in existing platted SU subdivisions shall follow the list of uses in the matrix under (S).RS-8, R-8, RS-6, R-6, R-O
    Planned (PL)A master planned development that may include a variety of housing types and neighborhood office and commercial uses organized around common open space areas used to buffer single- and multi-family and nonresidential development and as linear greenways and linkages within and around the property and connections to adjacent properties. This option is available for Major Subdivisions only.
    Recreational Community (RC)Recreational CommunityPlanned (PL)An area designed for up to 50 lots in a development in a small recreational setting.  See 156.50.07.R-10
    Nonresidential and Mixed Use
    Suburban Commercial (SC)SuburbanSmall Offices and ShopsOffice and limited retail uses that serve the daily needs of nearby residents with building and site design standards to ensure good transitions and use compatibility.O, N-B
    Auto-Urban Commercial (AU)Auto-UrbanCommercial Sites and CentersA broad range of single use and multi-tenant centers that are located along high traffic corridors and intersections, vary in scale, provide for entertainment, vehicle and retail sales and service, and office uses and typically have on-site, surface parking.G-B
    Central Business (CB)UrbanDowntownThe traditional central business district with a compact pedestrian-friendly scale, urban character, and mixing of uses typical for the core of the city.C-B
    Mixed Use (MU)

    Semi-Urban

    Auto-Urban

    		Walkable CenterWithin the Mixed—Use (MU) Zoning District, there must exist multiple “uses”, being combinations of residential and/or retail/commercial and light industrial. “Mixed-Residential”, being defined as Multiple product types, density, or varying classifications of residential will not qualify as “mixed use”. Within the MU Zone there is required 10,000 gross square feet of commercial/retail for the first 100 units of residential; and 5,000 gross square feet of commercial/retail for each successive 100 units of residential thereafter, with minimums pro-rated for additions of residential units in increments less than 100. While Mixed-use can allow for self-storage and/or mini-warehouse (light industrial) in combination with residential, any inclusion of such light industrial uses do not qualify or substitute for the requirement to provide minimum gross square footage of commercial/retail as prescribed herein.None
    Hospitality (HT)Auto-UrbanHospitality and Entertainment Campus

    A mixture of residential, commercial and entertainment uses in a horizontal and/or vertical format, which is designed for the area surrounding a major entertainment venue or in a focused hospitality setting. 

    		None
    Business and Industrial
    Heavy Industrial (HI)Auto-UrbanHeavy IndustryA mixture of light and heavy industrial uses located away from residential areas that may include manufacturing of raw materials, fabrication, assembly, and warehousing with both indoor and outdoor storage, and may have heavy truck and traffic.H-I
    Light Industrial (LI)Auto-UrbanLight IndustryLight industrial uses located away from residential areas that may include fabrication and assembly that does not meet the standard of heavy industry and warehousing with both indoor and outdoor storage, and may have heavy truck and traffic.L-I
    Special Purpose and Overlay Districts
    Historic District (HD)*VariesHistoric

    An overlay to establish regulations which will help maintain the historic integrity of certain areas within the City. 

     

    *Until such time that the City of Kings Mountain is represented by an HPC, this district and the regulations herein shall not be enforced. 

    		HD
    Planned Development (PD)VariesVariesA planned mixed use development on large acreage that is specifically designed to blend and ensure compatibility with surrounding land uses, to preserve critical environmental resources, and to allow a phased approach to development subject to the standards of 156.20.02 and in compliance with a site plan approved in accordance with 156.100.17.   
    Existing Conditional Districts (prior to 7/1/21)
    Existing - Conditional District (E-CD)VariesVariesA district to designate existing conditional districts prior to 7/1/21. Varies

    (Ord. 22-39, 11/29/2022; Ord. 23-24, 08/29/2023; Ord. 25-07, 03/11/2025) 

    Effective on: 3/11/2025

    156.10.03 Lot and Building Standards

  • (A)
    Purpose. The purpose of these standards is to allow development, redevelopment and substantial improvement of property consistent with the applicable district standards while protecting the value and enjoyment of adjacent properties. These regulations reduce the impacts of building height and mass on neighboring properties, promote privacy, preserve scenic views, and protect access to sunlight.
  • (B)
    Graphical Depiction.  Details for the standards below in graphic form in regards to how to interpret these measurements are located in 156.40, Measurements and Allowances.  
    • Table 156.10.03.1
    Residential Lot and Building Standards
    District and Building TypeMinimumMaximum
    Building Standards
    LotSetbacksCommon Open Space4, minimum %
    Area1Width2Front

     Side3

    		CornerRearHeight5
    Rural (RU)
    Standard (S)43,560100'50'20'25'40'--35'
    Suburban Residential (SR)
    Standard Lot (S)

    15,000

    		85'35'12'15'25'--35'
    Planned (PL)10,00075'35'12'15'25'30%45'
    Performance/Flex (PF)107,500 (avg)70'1030'1012'1015'25'1030%1045'
    Semi-Urban Residential (SU)
    Standard Lot (S)8,00065'25'10'15'20'--35'
    Planned (PL)6,00050'25'8'15'20'30%45'
    Recreational Community (RC)6
    Cluster (C)--25'--5'--5'50%35'

    Table 156.10.03.2 

    Nonresidential and Mixed Use Lot and Building Standards

    District and Building TypeMinimumMaximum
    LotSetbacksLandscape Surface Ratio (%)Building
    Area1WidthFront

    Interior Side

    		CornerRearHeight5
    Nonresidential and Mixed Use
    Suburban Commercial (SC)--50'30'8'10'20'30%25'
    Auto-Urban Commercial (AU)10,00075'35'10'10'25'25%25'13
    Central Business (CB)------------N/A50'
    Mixed Use (MU)--50'10'5'8'15'20%50'
    Hospitality (HT)--170'/50'750'/10'8/95'98'915'920%75'9
    Planned Development (PD)11------------15%75'12
    Business and Industrial
    Heavy Industrial (HI) 20,000100'50'50'50'50'15%150'
    Light Industrial (LI) 20,000100'50'50'50'50'15%150'

    TABLE NOTES:

    1. 1.
      Minimum area measured in square feet.
    2. 2.
      Lot width for attached units, where permitted in 156.30.02, Land Use Matrix, shall be permitted at half of the stated width for interior units. 
    3. 3.
      0' setbacks for interior units may apply to the attached side(s) only. Zero lot line housing shall be regulated, where permitted in 156.30.02, Land Use Matrix, in accordance with 156.50.04, Zero Lot Line. 
    4. 4.
      Common Open Space may be waived if lot sizes are at least 50% more than the minimum lot area for the district except in the RC District.  In the event open space is required, at least 50% of the required open space area shall be developable land. In the event that an active walking trail is installed in the common open space at the rear of lots, the rear setback may be reduced by the same width in feet of the walking trail in those locations. In no event shall a rear setback be less than 15'. At least one amenity approved by the Subdivision Administrator will be provided in the required usable 50% of common open space and shall meet the minimum standards in 156.50.08(B)(9). Mailbox clusters are not considered as part of the 50% usable common open space.
    5. 5.
      Measured to the highest point of the structure.
    6. 6.
      Due to incomplete data on property boundaries, no required front or corner building setbacks as long as construction is contained entirely on the subject lot, the project meets all current building codes, and the project meets environmental health standards.  
    7. 7.
      170' lot width on major arterial or external streets.  50' lot width for internal development on new streets. 
    8. 8.
      50' setback from major arterial or external street network.  10' setback for internal development or new streets created within the district.  
    9. 9.
      A 0' setback and a 130' height is permitted for the facilities located adjacent to the Sovereign Land of the Catawba Indian Nation as approved on 4/27/21 by Ordinance No. 21-18. Additional structures in this district shall meet the required setbacks and height for this district unless otherwise approved by text amendment or variance. 
    10. 10.
      Performance points of four or more may be used to reduce Minimum lot width to 60' and further reduce setbacks to 25' front, 10' side. See Section 156.50.08 for Performance Design Standards.
    11. 11.
      Planned Development Districts may not be used for residential development without nonresidential uses.  Minimum lot standards will be identified in the PD Text document approved with the PD zoning pursuant to 156.100.17 and other standards in 156.20.02.
    12. 12.
      Maximum height applicable unless taller structures are identified on the approved PD concept plan.
    13. 13.
      Buildings in the AU zoning district can have a maximum height up to 50' if all abutting property is non-residentially zoned.
    Table 156.10.03.1
    Residential Lot and Building Standards
    District and Building TypeMinimumMaximum
    Building Standards
    LotSetbacksCommon Open Space4, minimum %
    Area1Width2Front

     Side3

    		CornerRearHeight5
    Rural (RU)
    Standard (S)43,560100'50'20'25'40'--35'
    Suburban Residential (SR)
    Standard Lot (S)

    15,000

    		85'35'12'15'25'--35'
    Planned (PL)10,00075'35'12'15'25'30%45'
    Performance/Flex (PF)107,500 (avg)70'1030'1012'1015'25'1030%1045'
    Semi-Urban Residential (SU)
    Standard Lot (S)8,00065'25'10'15'20'--35'
    Planned (PL)6,00050'25'8'15'20'30%45'
    Recreational Community (RC)6
    Cluster (C)--25'--5'--5'50%35'

    Table 156.10.03.2 

    Nonresidential and Mixed Use Lot and Building Standards

    District and Building TypeMinimumMaximum
    LotSetbacksLandscape Surface Ratio (%)Building
    Area1WidthFront

    Interior Side

    		CornerRearHeight5
    Nonresidential and Mixed Use
    Suburban Commercial (SC)--50'30'8'10'20'30%25'
    Auto-Urban Commercial (AU)10,00075'35'10'10'25'25%25'13
    Central Business (CB)------------N/A50'
    Mixed Use (MU)--50'10'5'8'15'20%50'
    Hospitality (HT)--170'/50'750'/10'8/95'98'915'920%75'9
    Planned Development (PD)11------------15%75'12
    Business and Industrial
    Heavy Industrial (HI) 20,000100'50'50'50'50'15%150'
    Light Industrial (LI) 20,000100'50'50'50'50'15%150'

    TABLE NOTES:

    1. 1.
      Minimum area measured in square feet.
    2. 2.
      Lot width for attached units, where permitted in 156.30.02, Land Use Matrix, shall be permitted at half of the stated width for interior units. 
    3. 3.
      0' setbacks for interior units may apply to the attached side(s) only. Zero lot line housing shall be regulated, where permitted in 156.30.02, Land Use Matrix, in accordance with 156.50.04, Zero Lot Line. 
    4. 4.
      Common Open Space may be waived if lot sizes are at least 50% more than the minimum lot area for the district except in the RC District.  In the event open space is required, at least 50% of the required open space area shall be developable land. In the event that an active walking trail is installed in the common open space at the rear of lots, the rear setback may be reduced by the same width in feet of the walking trail in those locations. In no event shall a rear setback be less than 15'. At least one amenity approved by the Subdivision Administrator will be provided in the required usable 50% of common open space and shall meet the minimum standards in 156.50.08(B)(9). Mailbox clusters are not considered as part of the 50% usable common open space.
    5. 5.
      Measured to the highest point of the structure.
    6. 6.
      Due to incomplete data on property boundaries, no required front or corner building setbacks as long as construction is contained entirely on the subject lot, the project meets all current building codes, and the project meets environmental health standards.  
    7. 7.
      170' lot width on major arterial or external streets.  50' lot width for internal development on new streets. 
    8. 8.
      50' setback from major arterial or external street network.  10' setback for internal development or new streets created within the district.  
    9. 9.
      A 0' setback and a 130' height is permitted for the facilities located adjacent to the Sovereign Land of the Catawba Indian Nation as approved on 4/27/21 by Ordinance No. 21-18. Additional structures in this district shall meet the required setbacks and height for this district unless otherwise approved by text amendment or variance. 
    10. 10.
      Performance points of four or more may be used to reduce Minimum lot width to 60' and further reduce setbacks to 25' front, 10' side. See Section 156.50.08 for Performance Design Standards.
    11. 11.
      Planned Development Districts may not be used for residential development without nonresidential uses.  Minimum lot standards will be identified in the PD Text document approved with the PD zoning pursuant to 156.100.17 and other standards in 156.20.02.
    12. 12.
      Maximum height applicable unless taller structures are identified on the approved PD concept plan.
    13. 13.
      Buildings in the AU zoning district can have a maximum height up to 50' if all abutting property is non-residentially zoned.
    Table 156.10.03.1
    Residential Lot and Building Standards
    District and Building TypeMinimumMaximum
    Building Standards
    LotSetbacksCommon Open Space4, minimum %
    Area1Width2Front

     Side3

    		CornerRearHeight5
    Rural (RU)
    Standard (S)43,560100'50'20'25'40'--35'
    Suburban Residential (SR)
    Standard Lot (S)

    15,000

    		85'35'12'15'25'--35'
    Planned (PL)10,00075'35'12'15'25'30%45'
    Performance/Flex (PF)107,500 (avg)70'1030'1012'1015'25'1030%1045'
    Semi-Urban Residential (SU)
    Standard Lot (S)8,00065'25'10'15'20'--35'
    Planned (PL)6,00050'25'8'15'20'30%45'
    Recreational Community (RC)6
    Cluster (C)--25'--5'--5'50%35'

    Table 156.10.03.2 

    Nonresidential and Mixed Use Lot and Building Standards

    District and Building TypeMinimumMaximum
    LotSetbacksLandscape Surface Ratio (%)Building
    Area1WidthFront

    Interior Side

    		CornerRearHeight5
    Nonresidential and Mixed Use
    Suburban Commercial (SC)--50'30'8'10'20'30%25'
    Auto-Urban Commercial (AU)10,00075'35'10'10'25'25%25'13
    Central Business (CB)------------N/A50'
    Mixed Use (MU)--50'10'5'8'15'20%50'
    Hospitality (HT)--170'/50'750'/10'8/95'98'915'920%75'9
    Planned Development (PD)11------------15%75'12
    Business and Industrial
    Heavy Industrial (HI) 20,000100'50'50'50'50'15%150'
    Light Industrial (LI) 20,000100'50'50'50'50'15%150'

    TABLE NOTES:

    1. 1.
      Minimum area measured in square feet.
    2. 2.
      Lot width for attached units, where permitted in 156.30.02, Land Use Matrix, shall be permitted at half of the stated width for interior units. 
    3. 3.
      0' setbacks for interior units may apply to the attached side(s) only. Zero lot line housing shall be regulated, where permitted in 156.30.02, Land Use Matrix, in accordance with 156.50.04, Zero Lot Line. 
    4. 4.
      Common Open Space may be waived if lot sizes are at least 50% more than the minimum lot area for the district except in the RC District.  In the event open space is required, at least 50% of the required open space area shall be developable land. In the event that an active walking trail is installed in the common open space at the rear of lots, the rear setback may be reduced by the same width in feet of the walking trail in those locations. In no event shall a rear setback be less than 15'. At least one amenity approved by the Subdivision Administrator will be provided in the required usable 50% of common open space and shall meet the minimum standards in 156.50.08(B)(9). Mailbox clusters are not considered as part of the 50% usable common open space.
    5. 5.
      Measured to the highest point of the structure.
    6. 6.
      Due to incomplete data on property boundaries, no required front or corner building setbacks as long as construction is contained entirely on the subject lot, the project meets all current building codes, and the project meets environmental health standards.  
    7. 7.
      170' lot width on major arterial or external streets.  50' lot width for internal development on new streets. 
    8. 8.
      50' setback from major arterial or external street network.  10' setback for internal development or new streets created within the district.  
    9. 9.
      A 0' setback and a 130' height is permitted for the facilities located adjacent to the Sovereign Land of the Catawba Indian Nation as approved on 4/27/21 by Ordinance No. 21-18. Additional structures in this district shall meet the required setbacks and height for this district unless otherwise approved by text amendment or variance. 
    10. 10.
      Performance points of four or more may be used to reduce Minimum lot width to 60' and further reduce setbacks to 25' front, 10' side. See Section 156.50.08 for Performance Design Standards.
    11. 11.
      Planned Development Districts may not be used for residential development without nonresidential uses.  Minimum lot standards will be identified in the PD Text document approved with the PD zoning pursuant to 156.100.17 and other standards in 156.20.02.
    12. 12.
      Maximum height applicable unless taller structures are identified on the approved PD concept plan.
    13. 13.
      Buildings in the AU zoning district can have a maximum height up to 50' if all abutting property is non-residentially zoned.
    Table 156.10.03.1
    Residential Lot and Building Standards
    District and Building TypeMinimumMaximum
    Building Standards
    LotSetbacksCommon Open Space4, minimum %
    Area1Width2Front

     Side3

    		CornerRearHeight5
    Rural (RU)
    Standard (S)43,560100'50'20'25'40'--35'
    Suburban Residential (SR)
    Standard Lot (S)

    15,000

    		85'35'12'15'25'--35'
    Planned (PL)10,00075'35'12'15'25'30%45'
    Performance/Flex (PF)107,500 (avg)70'1030'1012'1015'25'1030%1045'
    Semi-Urban Residential (SU)
    Standard Lot (S)8,00065'25'10'15'20'--35'
    Planned (PL)6,00050'25'8'15'20'30%45'
    Recreational Community (RC)6
    Cluster (C)--25'--5'--5'50%35'

    Table 156.10.03.2 

    Nonresidential and Mixed Use Lot and Building Standards

    District and Building TypeMinimumMaximum
    LotSetbacksLandscape Surface Ratio (%)Building
    Area1WidthFront

    Interior Side

    		CornerRearHeight5
    Nonresidential and Mixed Use
    Suburban Commercial (SC)--50'30'8'10'20'30%25'
    Auto-Urban Commercial (AU)10,00075'35'10'10'25'25%25'13
    Central Business (CB)------------N/A50'
    Mixed Use (MU)--50'10'5'8'15'20%50'
    Hospitality (HT)--170'/50'750'/10'8/95'98'915'920%75'9
    Planned Development (PD)11------------15%75'12
    Business and Industrial
    Heavy Industrial (HI) 20,000100'50'50'50'50'15%150'
    Light Industrial (LI) 20,000100'50'50'50'50'15%150'

    TABLE NOTES:

    1. 1.
      Minimum area measured in square feet.
    2. 2.
      Lot width for attached units, where permitted in 156.30.02, Land Use Matrix, shall be permitted at half of the stated width for interior units. 
    3. 3.
      0' setbacks for interior units may apply to the attached side(s) only. Zero lot line housing shall be regulated, where permitted in 156.30.02, Land Use Matrix, in accordance with 156.50.04, Zero Lot Line. 
    4. 4.
      Common Open Space may be waived if lot sizes are at least 50% more than the minimum lot area for the district except in the RC District.  In the event open space is required, at least 50% of the required open space area shall be developable land. In the event that an active walking trail is installed in the common open space at the rear of lots, the rear setback may be reduced by the same width in feet of the walking trail in those locations. In no event shall a rear setback be less than 15'. At least one amenity approved by the Subdivision Administrator will be provided in the required usable 50% of common open space and shall meet the minimum standards in 156.50.08(B)(9). Mailbox clusters are not considered as part of the 50% usable common open space.
    5. 5.
      Measured to the highest point of the structure.
    6. 6.
      Due to incomplete data on property boundaries, no required front or corner building setbacks as long as construction is contained entirely on the subject lot, the project meets all current building codes, and the project meets environmental health standards.  
    7. 7.
      170' lot width on major arterial or external streets.  50' lot width for internal development on new streets. 
    8. 8.
      50' setback from major arterial or external street network.  10' setback for internal development or new streets created within the district.  
    9. 9.
      A 0' setback and a 130' height is permitted for the facilities located adjacent to the Sovereign Land of the Catawba Indian Nation as approved on 4/27/21 by Ordinance No. 21-18. Additional structures in this district shall meet the required setbacks and height for this district unless otherwise approved by text amendment or variance. 
    10. 10.
      Performance points of four or more may be used to reduce Minimum lot width to 60' and further reduce setbacks to 25' front, 10' side. See Section 156.50.08 for Performance Design Standards.
    11. 11.
      Planned Development Districts may not be used for residential development without nonresidential uses.  Minimum lot standards will be identified in the PD Text document approved with the PD zoning pursuant to 156.100.17 and other standards in 156.20.02.
    12. 12.
      Maximum height applicable unless taller structures are identified on the approved PD concept plan.
    13. 13.
      Buildings in the AU zoning district can have a maximum height up to 50' if all abutting property is non-residentially zoned.

    (Ord. 22-15, 05/31/2022; Ord. 22-39, 11/29/2022; Ord. 23-24, 08/29/2023; Ord. 25-07, 03/11/2025)

    Effective on: 3/11/2025