Mount Pleasant City Zoning Code
SUBCHAPTER N
DEFINITIONS AND ACRONYMS
§ 156.1675 PURPOSE.
The purpose of this part is to define acronyms used in this chapter.
(Ord. passed 1-14-25)
§ 156.1676 LIST OF ACRONYMS.
ADU. Accessory dwelling unit.
ANSI. American National Standards Institute.
BCM. South Carolina Department of Environmental Services Bureau of Coastal Management.
BOZA. Town of Mount Pleasant Board of Zoning Appeals.
CCT. Correlated color temperature (of exterior lighting).
COA. Certificate of appropriateness.
CCRC. Continuing care retirement community.
DES. See SCDES.
DRB. Design Review Board.
FAR. Floor area ratio.
GFA. Gross floor area.
HDPC. Historic District Preservation Commission.
ICC. International Code Council.
LID. Low impact development.
PD. Planned Development District. Sometimes referred to as PUD, Planned Unit Development.
PID. Parcel identification number (same as TMS).
PUD. See PD.
ROD. Charleston County Register of Deeds.
SCDA. South Carolina Department of Agriculture.
SCDES. South Carolina Department of Environmental Services.
SFHA. Special flood hazard area.
TMS. Tax Map sequence number (same as PID).
TRCC. Technical review and code compliance.
USACE. United States Army Corps of Engineers.
(Ord. passed 1-14-25)
§ 156.1680 PURPOSE.
For the purpose of this chapter, the following definitions apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning. Any terms not defined in this part have their ordinary and customary meaning unless the context of the word or phrase indicates otherwise.
(Ord. passed 1-14-25)
§ 156.1681 DEFINED TERMS.
For the purpose of this chapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
ACCESSORY BUILDING, STRUCTURE, OR USE. A building, structure, or use customarily incidental and subordinate to, and detached from, the principal use or building and located on the same lot with such principal use, uses, or building.
ACTIVITY ZONE. An improved area located between the street right-of-way and the build-to line, where allowed by this chapter. ACTIVITY ZONES must be approved through the design review process prior to establishment, and may be utilized for pedestrian-friendly uses, such as but not limited to, streetside dining, entertainment, pushcarts, or outdoor display of merchandise.
ADULT USES. Any business or activity located on a premises, or portion thereof utilized as an adjunct to some other business activity but which constitutes a major attraction to the premises, from which minors are generally excluded and in which a substantial portion of its stock-in-trade involve the sale, rental, or viewing of materials that are characterized by their emphasis on sexual subject matter, or where activities are conducted that are distinguished or characterized by an emphasis on exposing, depicting, describing or otherwise relating to specified sexual activities or specified anatomical parts.
AGRICULTURAL STORAGE. The keeping of materials and/or equipment related to an agricultural use either outdoors or inside a structure.
ALLEY. An improved private right-of-way used primarily as a secondary means of access to the side or rear of properties whose principal frontage is on another street.
ALTER. As applied to a building or structure, a change or rearrangement in the structural parts, or in the exit facilities, or an enlargement, whether by extending on a side or by increasing in height; or the moving from one location or position to another.
ALTERATION. A change in the external architectural features of any structure in an historic district.
ALTERATIONS OF BUILDING. Any change in the supporting members of a building, such as bearing walls, columns, beams, girders, or floor joists.
ALTERNATIVE LENDING SERVICES. An establishment that provides short-term, high-interest personal lending services. These institutions include, but are not limited to, check cashing establishments (not including incidental check cashing), motor vehicle title lenders, pawnbrokers, payday lenders, deferred presentment services, bail bonding, and other businesses with similar business models and land use impacts. This definition does not include banks, credit unions, savings and loan associations, precious metals dealers, or similar uses.
AMENITY BUILDINGS OR FACILITIES. Those features of a residential development designed for and intended to serve residents of the development, which may include, but are not limited to, laundry facilities, swimming pools, tennis courts, fitness rooms, game and theater rooms, picnic areas, play fields, walking trails, docks, boat launches, and boat storage.
AMUSEMENT CENTER. Any privately-owned or operated establishment, whether operated for profit or not for profit, which houses six or more mechanical or electronic amusement devices, and either:
(1) Has as its chief, leading, main, or most considerable and important activity the operation of mechanical or electronic amusement devices; or
(2) Obtains 25% or more of its gross receipts from the operation of mechanical or electronic amusement devices.
AMUSEMENT DEVICE, MECHANICAL OR ELECTRONIC. Any machine, device, or game that permits a person or operator of the same to use the device as a game, contest of skill, or amusement. It shall include, but not be limited to, pinball machines, skill ball, bowling machines, billiard and pool tables, and video games, and specifically includes a computer or similar device used, in whole or in part, for gaming or amusement.
ANIMAL BOARDING FACILITY OR DAYCARE. A commercial establishment where the primary service offered is the care and supervision of dogs, cats, or other household pets for any length of time. Such establishment may offer ancillary services, such as grooming. This definition excludes pet care services and veterinary clinics.
ANIMAL HUSBANDRY. The practice of raising and managing any domestic animals other than customary household pets, including breeding, pasturing, ranching, and sales of animals, but not concentrated animal feeding operations.
ANIMAL SHELTER. An establishment where stray or abandoned dogs, cats, or other household pets are kept, boarded, treated, and/or groomed for purposes of adoption by members of the public.
ANNUAL MEETING SCHEDULE. A schedule of all regular meetings of appointed and elected officials of the Town of Mount Pleasant, that is published no later than December of each year and may be amended from time to time.
APARTMENT. A dwelling unit, including a coliving dwelling unit, located in a triplex, quadplex, or multiplex dwelling; or in a mixed use building.
APARTMENT COMPLEX. Two or more duplex, triplex, quadplex, or multiplex dwellings located on a single lot. Any building in an apartment complex may contain one or more coliving dwelling units.
APICULTURE. Beekeeping, which includes one or more hives or boxes occupied by honeybees (hives or boxes include colonies), but does not include honey houses, extraction houses, warehouses, or appliances.
APPEAL. A formal request submitted to the Board of Zoning Appeals alleging an error in an order, requirement, decision, or determination made by an administrative official in the enforcement of the Zoning Code.
APPLICANT. A property owner or any person or entity acting as an agent for the property owner in an application for permits or other approval required by this chapter.
AQUACULTURE. The growing or propagation of harvestable freshwater, estuarine, or marine plant or animal species.
ARCHITECTURAL AND ENGINEERING SERVICES. This use group includes the following types of establishments, as defined in the 2022 North American Industry Classification System (NAICS):
(1) Architectural services (NAICS 541310);
(2) Landscape architectural services (NAICS 541320);
(3) Engineering services (NAICS 541330); and
(4) Drafting services (NAICS 541340).
AREA, GROSS FLOOR. The total number of square feet of floor space within the exterior walls of a building, excluding space in cellars, basements, and unfinished attics. The area of a building without exterior walls is the usable area under the horizontal projection of the roof or floor above (see Subchapter M).
AREA, LOT. The total square footage of the horizontal surface within the boundary lines of a lot (see § 156.1636).
AREA, SITE. The total area within the property lines of a development project, excluding external streets.
ARMS MANUAL. See SCDOT ARMS MANUAL.
ART GALLERY. A place or establishment arranged for the display and exhibition of works of art by one or more artists and for the sale of works of art.
ARTISAN (includes ARTIST, CRAFTSMAN). A person skilled in an applied art, artistic, or craft discipline.
ARTISAN WORKSHOP (includes ARTIST STUDIO and BOUTIQUE MANUFACTURING). An establishment for the preparation, display, and/or sale of individually crafted artwork, jewelry, furniture, sculpture, pottery, leathercraft, hand-woven articles, baked or prepared food and drink, watercraft, and similar items by one or more artisans. This definition excludes SWEETGRASS BASKET STANDS.
ASSISTED LIVING (includes NURSING HOME). A facility that offers room and board and provides a degree of personal care for a period of time in excess of 24 consecutive hours for two or more persons, 18 years old or older, not related to the licensee within the third degree of consanguinity.
ATTAINABLE HOUSING. Housing affordable to low and moderate income families (those earning up to 120% of the Charleston-North Charleston Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) median family income, as defined in the schedule published annually by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development).
ATTAINABLE HOUSING UNIT. A dwelling unit that is affordable to low and moderate income families (those earning up to 120% of the Charleston-North Charleston Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) median family income, as defined in the schedule published annually by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development).
ATTIC. The space between the ceiling framing of the top story and the underside of the roof.
AVIATION FACILITY. A location where aircraft such as fixed-wing, rotary wing, or lighter- than-air aircraft, helicopters, and/or blimps take off and land. Aircraft may be stored or maintained at an aviation facility. An AVIATION FACILITY consists of at least one surface such as a runway for a plane to take off and land or a helipad, and often includes buildings such as control towers, hangars, and terminal buildings. This definition excludes helipads used for emergency services, such as a helipad located at a hospital.
AWNING. An architectural projection that provides weather protection, identity, or decoration and is partially or wholly supported by the building to which it is attached. An awning is comprised of a lightweight frame structure over which a covering is attached.
BAKERY. An establishment primarily engaged in the production and retail sale of baked goods.
BANK, CREDIT UNION, AND SAVINGS AND LOAN ASSOCIATION. An establishment that provides retail banking services, mortgage lending, or similar financial services to an individual or business.
BAR (includes NIGHTCLUB, LOUNGE). An establishment serving alcoholic beverages for on-site consumption as the primary use.
BASEMENT (includes CELLAR). A portion of a building partly underground with more than half of its height, measured from finished floor to finished ceiling, above the average grade of the adjoining ground; and not deemed a story unless the ceiling is six feet or more above the grade.
BEDROOM. A habitable room, as defined in the Building Code, that is heated and cooled and includes at least one window located no more than 44 inches above the floor with an unobstructed opening of at least 5.7 square feet.
BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS. The Town of Mount Pleasant Board of Zoning Appeals, established in accordance with the South Carolina Local Government Comprehensive Planning Enabling Act. (See Subchapter J)
BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS SECRETARY. The staff person designated to assist the Board of Zoning Appeals as specified in § 156.1433 or their designee.
BOAT LAUNCH OR DOCK. A facility for launching and/or mooring boats that is available for use by the general public and for which a user fee may or may not be charged. Also includes associated parking areas.
BOAT LAUNCH OR DOCK, NEIGHBORHOOD. A facility for launching and/or mooring boats located within a residential area and intended primarily for use by residents of the immediate area. Also includes associated parking areas.
BOAT LAUNCH OR DOCK, PERSONAL. A facility for launching and/or mooring boats located on an individual residential lot and intended solely for use by the parcel owner. A PERSONAL BOAT LAUNCH OR DOCK may be shared by two or more adjacent lot owners.
BODY PIERCING. The creation of an opening in the body of a person so as to create a permanent hole for the purpose of inserting jewelry or other decoration. This includes, but is not limited to, piercing of the lip, tongue, nose, eyebrow, and the cartilaginous portion of an ear. For the purpose of this chapter, BODY PIERCING does not include piercing of the ear lobe.
BONA FIDE FORESTRY OPERATIONS. See FORESTRY OPERATIONS, BONA FIDE.
BOOKSTORE/NEWSSTAND. An establishment for the retail sale of books, magazines, periodicals, newspapers, or other printed matter, audio recordings, motion pictures, and other digital materials. BOOKSTORE/NEWSSTAND does not include adult uses.
BOUTIQUE MANUFACTURING. See ARTISAN WORKSHOP.
BREWERY. A facility used for the commercial purpose of the production of beers, ales, and similar beverages. The facility may incorporate all aspects of production including aging, storage, bottling, wholesale sales, warehousing, and administrative office functions. Retail sales, tasting facilities, and event facilities may be permitted as part of the facility operations. This definition excludes BREWPUBS.
BREWPUB. A component of a restaurant, bar, or hotel that produces on the premises a maximum of 2,000 barrels a year of beer for sale on the premises.
BUILD-TO LINE. The line at which construction of a building façade is to occur on a parcel. A BUILD-TO LINE runs parallel to the street right-of-way and is established to create a generally consistent building line along a street.
BUILDABLE AREA. The maximum two-dimensional space on a lot within which a structure or structures can be built, as permitted by applicable setback and buffer requirements.
BUILDING. Any structure having a roof supported by columns or walls, for the shelter, housing, or enclosure of any individual, animal, activity, process, equipment, goods, or materials of any kind, exclusive of mailboxes, birdhouses, or similar construction. The term BUILDING shall be construed as if followed by the words “or part thereof.”
BUILDING CODE. The codes adopted by the town in Chapter 150.
BUILDING COVERAGE. The proportion of the lot area covered by the building footprint.
BUILDING FOOTPRINT. All parts of a building that rest, directly or indirectly, on the ground, including: garages, bay windows, chimneys, porches, decks, eaves, exterior stairs, cantilevered floor space or decks, and covered breezeways or walkways. BUILDING FOOTPRINT includes any two-dimensional coverage, specifically including such elements as steps, decks, terraces, and roof and eave structure. Includes the term STRUCTURE FOOTPRINT.
BUILDING HEIGHT. See Subchapter M, Part 2, Subpart 2.6.
BUILDING HEIGHT PLAN MAP. A graphic depiction of the maximum structure height allowed on all lots in the town. (See § 156.024).
BUILDING LINE (includes SETBACK and SETBACK LINE). A line that represents the minimum distances, when measured at right angles, a building or structure must be placed from a lot line in accordance with this chapter. Front and rear yards are typically located along the width of the lot (shorter dimension) and side yards are typically located along the length of the lot (longer dimension), both regardless of lot and building orientation so as to provide the greatest amount of buildable area. (See Subchapter M, Subpart 2.9)
BUILDING OFFICIAL. The administrative head of the Building Inspection Division of the Engineering and Development Services Department, or their designee.
BUILDING, PRINCIPAL. See STRUCTURE, PRINCIPAL.
BUSINESS LICENSE OFFICIAL. The administrative head of the Business License Division of the Finance and Corporate Services Department, or their designee.
BUTCHER SHOP. A retail establishment that supplies meat and poultry products but where meat processing is limited to making cuts of meat from preprocessed carcasses.
CALIPER. The diameter of a tree, measured six inches above the ground for trees up to four inches and 12 inches above the ground for those larger than four inches. This measurement is commonly associated with proposed, bought, or newly planted trees.
CAMPGROUND OR CAMPSITE. A non-residential use of a parcel of land for temporary overnight use by tents or cabins for which a fee may be charged. Tent camping areas may include site improvements, such as gravel pads, parking areas, fire pits, or tent platforms, but may not have permanent utility hookups. Cabins may have utilities such as electricity, water, sewer, telephone, or cable television. A CAMPGROUND may incorporate recreational uses such as, but not limited to, pedestrian and bicycle trails, natural swimming areas (ponds or lakes, but not swimming pools), picnic areas, and observation towers.
CANTEEN. A small restaurant located within a place of work or multi-family development, intended to serve employees or residents of the principal use.
CAR WASH (includes SELF-SERVICE CAR WASHES). A building, or portion thereof, where vehicles and watercraft are cleaned. A car wash may include washing, drying, vacuuming, and/or tire- filling services.
CELLAR. See BASEMENT.
CERTIFICATE OF APPROPRIATENESS (COA). Document certifying approval that the proposed actions by an applicant are found to be acceptable in terms of design criteria relating to an individual property in an historic district.
CHANGE IN USE. The act of ceasing one land use allowed by § 156.338 and replacing it with another land use allowed by § 156.338; or the addition of one or more land uses to an existing development.
CHARTER BOAT. A vessel offered for hire or rent for periods of time which includes, but is not limited to, the service of a captain or crew, or both.
This includes rental boats, sightseeing boats, ferry boats, bareboat charters, head boats, and other vessels for rent or hire. CHARTER BOATS do not include water taxis or personal watercraft.
CLEARCUTTING. The clearing, cutting, or removal of all or a majority of trees and vegetation from a lot or portion of a lot.
CLOTHING AND HOME GOODS DONATION BIN. A non-staffed, locked receptacle in which the public may deposit used clothing and home goods for donation to community organizations.
CLUB, LODGE, OR FRATERNAL ORGANIZATION. An incorporated or unincorporated association for civic, cultural, religious, literary, political, recreational or like activities, but not including shooting clubs, operated for the benefit of its members and not open to the general public.
CLUSTER DEVELOPMENT. A subdivision design technique recognized by the South Carolina Local Government Comprehensive Planning Enabling Act of 1994, as amended, that concentrates development in specific areas of a site. It allows the grouping of residential uses within a subdivision, permitting a reduction in the otherwise applicable lot size, while preserving substantial open space on the remainder of the parcel.
COLD STORAGE. Facilities primarily engaged in the storage of ice and other goods under refrigeration.
COMMERCIAL KITCHEN, CATERER, AND BANQUET SERVICES. Kitchen facilities for the preparation or catering of food to be served off-site and ancillary offices and other support facilities. This definition includes ghost kitchens, commissary kitchens, and delivery-only restaurants.
COMMERCIAL NURSERY OPERATIONS. An establishment where trees, shrubs, vines, and other plant stock are grown, propagated, and/or stored, for the purpose of sale or wholesale. Ancillary items, such as mulch, sand, gravel, or similar materials; and seasonal items, such as Christmas trees and pumpkins, may be sold in addition to plants, but must clearly be incidental to the primary use.
COMMERCIAL RECREATION AND ENTERTAINMENT. See RECREATION AND ENTERTAINMENT, COMMERCIAL.
COMMISSARY. A permitted retail food establishment that is authorized by the South Carolina Department of Agriculture to provide a servicing area for mobile food vending units or mobile food pushcarts for the purposes of storage of food, supplies, and single-service articles.
COMMUNITY GARDEN. A grouping of garden plots available for small-scale cultivation by members of the general public.
COMMUNITY RECREATION. See RECREATION, COMMUNITY.
COMMUNITY RESIDENCE. This term has the meaning specified in S.C. Code § 6-29-770(E), (F), and (G).
COMMUNITY SERVICE FACILITY. A non-commercial establishment intended primarily for the benefit and service of the general public of the community in which it is located. Such facilities may have membership provisions that allow the general public to join at any time. Examples include, but are not limited to, community centers, community health clinics, senior centers, East Cooper Community Outreach facilities, and Meals on Wheels facilities.
COMPUTING INFRASTRUCTURE PROVIDERS, DATA PROCESSING, WEB HOSTING, AND RELATED SERVICES. Establishments primarily engaged in providing computing infrastructure, data processing services, web hosting services (except software publishing), and related services, including streaming support services (except streaming distribution services) (NAICS 518210).
CONDOMINIUM. Refers to a form of ownership, not an actual structure. A unit in a series or in a multi-unit type structure, which may be owned or leased by an individual, firm, or corporation, that may have common use of all related activities associated with the structure; or as defined in state law as a horizontal property regime.
CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY (CCRC). A community in which there is furnished, pursuant to a continuing care contract, to two or more persons not related to the administrator or owner of the facility within the third degree of consanguinity, board or lodging together with nursing, medical, or other health-related services, regardless of whether the services or lodging are provided at the same location or not. It does not include an institution operating solely as a nursing home or community residential care facility licensed by the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control. A CCRC is licensed by the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs. A “continuing care contract” means a contract to provide board or lodging together with nursing, medical, or other health-related services:
(1) To a person 65 years of age or older at the time the contract is signed or purchased; or
(2) Which provides for services for the life of the person or for more than one year, including mutually terminable contracts; and
(3) Which requires payment of an entrance fee or other fee in return for a promise of future care.
CRITICAL AREA LINE. The boundary between the upland and the tidelands and coastal water critical areas. Critical area lines are determined by South Carolina Department of Environmental Services Bureau of Coastal Management staff and are valid for five years from the date of determination. S.C. Code § 48-39-10 defines the terms tidelands and critical area as used in this definition.
CROP, GREENHOUSE, HORTICULTURAL, OR HYDROPONIC PRODUCTION. The growing, harvesting, and/or processing of fruits, vegetables, medicinal plants, and/or landscape plant materials.
CULTURAL FACILITY. An establishment providing for the display, preservation, and/or exhibition of objects of historical or cultural interest. Examples of this use include, but are not limited to, museums, libraries, historical sites, botanical gardens, nature exhibitions, environmental education facilities, and interpretive centers.
CULTURAL FESTIVALS AND EVENTS. Commemorations, celebrations, or gatherings of special importance to the community, such as, but not limited to, concerts, holiday/seasonal events, food festivals, ethnic festivals, craft fairs, and reenactments.
DATA CENTER. A facility containing one or more large-scale computer systems used for data storage and processing for off-site users. Key components of a data center include routers, switches, firewalls, storage systems, servers, and application-delivery controllers. Typical supporting equipment includes back-up batteries and/or power generators, cooling units, fire suppression systems, and enhanced security features.
DAYCARE FACILITY. A facility which provides care, protection, and supervision for children or adults on a regular basis away from their primary residence for less than 24 hours per day.
DEMOLITION BY NEGLECT. Abandonment or lack of maintenance that allows a structure in an historic district to fall into a serious state of disrepair resulting in the deterioration of any exterior architectural feature that would, in the judgment of the Historic District Preservation Commission, produce a detrimental effect upon the character of the historic district as a whole, or the life and character of the property itself. Examples of such deterioration include:
(1) Deterioration of exterior walls or other vertical supports;
(2) Deterioration of roofs or other horizontal members;
(3) Deterioration of exterior chimneys;
(4) Deterioration of exterior materials;
(5) Ineffective waterproofing of exterior walls, roof, or foundations, including broken windows or doors; or
(6) Deterioration of any feature resulting in a hazardous condition that could lead to the claim that demolition is necessary for the public safety.
DENSITY. The number of dwelling units per acre of land within the boundaries of a residential project, including lands or parcels designated for support of the development. In some zoning districts, density is measured in bedrooms per acre.
DESIGN REVIEW BOARD. The Town of Mount Pleasant Design Review Board, established in accordance with the South Carolina Local Government Comprehensive Planning Enabling Act. (See Subchapter J)
DESIGN REVIEW BOARD SECRETARY. The staff person designated to assist the Design Review Board as specified in § 156.1433 or their designee.
DESIGN REVIEW PROCESS. The procedure for evaluation of certain developments to ensure compliance with the requirements of this chapter. Generally, non-residential, mixed use, and apartment complex developments are subject to this process; however, the applicability of this process to a particular development depends upon the specific zoning of the property on which the development is or will be located.
DEVELOPMENT. Any human-made change to or subdivision of improved or unimproved land, including the construction of or substantial improvements to buildings or other structures that requires a permit or approval from the town. DEVELOPMENT includes the placement of manufactured homes, mining, dredging, filling, grading, paving, excavation, or drilling operations.
DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING CENTER. Establishments primarily engaged in producing images of a patient generally on referral from a health practitioner. Examples include computer tomography (CT-scan) centers, medical radiological laboratories, dental or medical X-ray laboratories, ultrasound imaging centers, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) centers.
DIRECTOR OF ENGINEERING AND DEVELOPMENT SERVICES. The administrative head of the Engineering and Development Services Department, or their designee.
DIRECTOR OF PLANNING, LAND USE, AND NEIGHBORHOODS. The administrative head of the Planning, Land Use, and Neighborhoods Department, or their designee.
DISTILLERY. A facility used for the commercial purpose of the production of liquors and similar beverages. The facility may incorporate all aspects of production including aging, storage, bottling, wholesale sales, warehousing, and administrative office functions. Retail sales, tasting facilities, and event facilities may be permitted as part of the facility operations.
DISTRIBUTION TERMINAL. An establishment engaged in the storage or movement of goods, such as manufactured products, supplies, equipment, or food. Goods are generally delivered to other firms or the final consumer, except for some will-call pickups. There is little on-site sales activity with the customer present. Also referred to as a distribution center or logistics facility.
DOCK FOR COMMERCIAL FISHING VESSEL. Docks used by those catching fish or other marine life for the purpose of selling such fish or marine life at wholesale or retail.
DRIVE-THROUGH OR DRIVE-IN SERVICE. A facility designed to permit customers of an establishment to obtain or consume goods or receive services while remaining inside a motor vehicle. Curbside drop-off and pick up, where customers use off-street parking spaces to wait for goods to be loaded or unloaded from their vehicle, are not considered a DRIVE-THROUGH OR DRIVE-IN SERVICE.
DRY STACK WATERCRAFT STORAGE. A facility for storing boats out of water. This is principally a land operation, where boats are dry stored or “stacked” until such time as they are transferred to the water for use.
DWELLING. A residential building that contains one or more dwelling units.
DWELLING, DETACHED HOUSE. A residential building, other than a manufactured home, that contains one principal dwelling unit and is not attached to another principal dwelling unit.
DWELLING, DUPLEX. A residential building that contains two dwelling units. A DUPLEX DWELLING may be located on a single lot, with the dwelling units located either side-by-side or stacked one above the other, or may be located on two separate lots, with the dwelling units located side-by-side.
DWELLING, GROUP CARE. A staffed residence providing meals, supervision, education, counseling, treatment, therapy, and/or other support services for elderly or physically, emotionally, and/or mentally disabled individuals.
DWELLING, MULTIPLEX. A single residential building that contains five or more dwelling units and is located on a single lot. See also APARTMENT COMPLEX.
DWELLING, QUADPLEX. A single residential building that contains four dwelling units and is located on a single lot. This dwelling type has the appearance of a medium- or large-sized detached house, typically with one shared entry, and is appropriately scaled to fit within moderate density neighborhoods.
DWELLING, TOWNHOUSE. One of a series of three or more separate attached dwelling units that:
(1) May or may not have a common roof;
(2) Share at least one common wall;
(3) Are separate from each other by a fire resistance-rated wall assembly, as required in the adopted building code; and
(4) Are sold as individual lots of record.
DWELLING, TRIPLEX. A single residential building that contains three dwelling units and is located on a single lot. This dwelling type has the appearance of a medium- or large-sized detached house, typically with one shared entry, and is appropriately scaled to fit within moderate density neighborhoods.
DWELLING UNIT. A building or portion of a building arranged or designed to provide complete independent living facilities for one household, including permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation.
DWELLING UNIT, ACCESSORY. A separate housing arrangement within, attached to, or detached from a detached house dwelling, that includes its own dedicated entrance from the outdoors and a kitchen and bathroom separate from those contained within the principal structure, and therefore functions as a complete living unit. The terms “kitchen” and “bathroom” are defined in the Building Code.
DWELLING UNIT, COLIVING. A portion of a building containing private living spaces and shared common areas such as a kitchen, laundry room, and lounge area. Each private living space includes a bedroom, but may or may not include a private bathroom. Private living spaces do not include cooking facilities. Typically, private living spaces within a coliving dwelling unit are leased on an individual basis. A COLIVING DWELLING UNIT is located in a TRIPLEX DWELLING, QUADPLEX DWELLING, MULTIPLEX DWELLING, or MIXED USE BUILDING.
DWELLING, ZERO LOT LINE. A detached house dwelling that has a zero-foot setback from one side property line.
EASEMENT. A grant by the property owner of the use of a strip of land for a specific purpose. Ownership is retained by the property owner, who is typically responsible for the general upkeep and maintenance of the easement.
ELIGIBLE IMPROVEMENTS. Additions, renovations, or other changes made to a dwelling unit that are permanent in nature and clearly add to the long-term market value of the dwelling unit, such as, but not limited to, additions containing conditioned space, screened porches, decks, patios (other than concrete slab), and improvements related to energy and water efficiency. Normal maintenance, repair work, or improvements that are strictly cosmetic in nature are not considered eligible improvements. Purchase of household appliances such as, but not limited to, refrigerators, stoves, and dishwashers, shall not be considered an ELIGIBLE IMPROVEMENT.
ENGINEERING AND DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DIRECTOR. The administrative head of the Engineering and Development Services Department or their designee.
ENTERTAINMENT AND RECREATION, COMMERCIAL. See RECREATION AND ENTERTAINMENT, COMMERCIAL.
ENTERTAINMENT, HIGH-IMPACT. Predominantly large-seating capacity spectator uses with the potential for high vehicle trip generation and/or which has a greater potential for nuisance to adjacent properties due to noise, light, or glare. Examples include, but are not limited to, large-scale event venues and professional sports venues.
EQUESTRIAN FACILITY. An establishment where horses are boarded and/or used for rentals, riding lessons, shows, training, or the like.
EVENT VENUE. A commercial facility used for the hosting of events such as, but not limited to, weddings, parties, or meetings, which does not meet the definition of high-impact entertainment.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING. For all definitions related to exterior lighting, see Subchapter H, Part 3, Subpart 3.4.
FACILITY. A building, structure, or space established for a particular purpose.
FAMILY. See HOUSEHOLD.
FARMERS’ MARKET, TEMPORARY. A temporary retail facility that is open to the public; that is operated by a governmental agency, a non-profit corporation, or one or more farmers’ market vendors; and that includes at least three vendors, all of whom sell agricultural products or value-added agricultural products.
FINANCIAL INVESTMENT SERVICES. This use group includes the following types of establishments, as defined in the 2022 North American Industry Classification System (NAICS):
(1) Mortgage and non-mortgage loan brokers (NAICS 522310);
(2) Securities and commodity contracts intermediation and brokerage (NAICS 5231);
(3) Portfolio management and investment advice (NAICS 52394);
(4) Other financial investment activities (NAICS 52399);
(5) Open-end investment funds (NAICS 525910); and
(6) Other financial vehicles (NAICS 525990).
FIRE CODE. The codes adopted by the town in Chapter 92.
FLEX SPACE. A facility containing a combination of office and any one or more of the following uses: warehouse, distribution, and/or showroom facilities.
FLOOD PLAIN. Those areas subject to periodic inundation by large floods that occur with calculable flood frequency, and subject to flooding that may reasonably be expected to cause damage or hazard of damage sufficient to justify protection therefrom.
FLOOR AREA. See AREA, GROSS FLOOR.
FLOOR AREA RATIO (FAR). Expresses the relationship between the amount of useable floor area permitted in a building or buildings and the area of the lot on which the building stands. It is obtained by dividing the gross floor area of a building by the total area of the lot. The diagram below illustrates three ways that a FAR of 1.0 might be achieved: a one-story building covering the entire lot, a two-story building covering half the lot, or a four-story building covering one quarter of the lot. See Figure 156.1681-2.
FLORIST OR FLOWER SHOP. A retail establishment in which the principal activity is the sale of plants that are not grown on the site.
FOOTPRINT. See BUILDING FOOTPRINT.
FORESTRY OPERATIONS, BONA FIDE. BONA FIDE FORESTRY OPERATIONS shall mean that the property is eligible for, and actually used for forestry or timber operations, and written application has been approved by the Charleston County Assessor for the special assessment for agricultural use for the property in question pursuant to S.C. Code § 12-43-220, S.C. Department of Revenue Regulation 117-1780.1., and other applicable statutes, rules, and regulations.
GAS STATION. A place where gasoline is stored only in underground tanks, and kerosene, lubricating oil, and grease for operation of automobiles, trucks, or watercraft are offered for sale at retail directly to the public on premises.
GOLF COURSE. A facility, other than a miniature golf course, for the playing of golf, at which there may be a clubhouse including restrooms and locker rooms. A GOLF COURSE may provide additional services customarily furnished such as swimming pools, tennis courts, play fields, park land, driving ranges, and related retail sales that may include a restaurant and cocktail lounge.
GOVERNMENT FACILITY. A building, structure, or space owned, operated, and/or occupied by a government agency.
GRADE PLANE. This term has the same meaning given in the Building Code.
GROCERY STORE. A retail establishment in which the majority of the building’s floor area is devoted to the sale of food products, including fresh fruits and vegetables, dairy products, and meats, for home preparation and consumption. A grocery store carries a broader range of merchandise than a convenience store.
GUEST ROOM. Any room in a hotel or boutique hotel containing one or more beds (excluding pull-out beds) provided for transient guests.
GUEST SUITE. Two or more guest rooms grouped together within a single rentable or leasable unit in any hotel or boutique hotel.
HALF-STORY. See STORY, HALF.
HISTORIC DISTRICT PRESERVATION COMMISSION. The Town of Mount Pleasant Historic District Preservation Commission, established in accordance with the South Carolina Local Government Comprehensive Planning Enabling Act. (See Subchapter J)
HISTORIC DISTRICT PRESERVATION COMMISSION SECRETARY. The staff person designated to assist the Historic District Preservation Commission as specified in § 156.1433 or their designee.
HISTORIC PROPERTY. A building, structure, or site designated by Town Council as a contributing property within an historic district or is located elsewhere within the town as a singular property worthy of such a designation outside a historic district.
HISTORICAL COMMISSION. The Town of Mount Pleasant Historical Commission. (See Subchapter J)
HISTORICAL COMMISSION SECRETARY. The staff person designated to assist the Historical Commission as specified in § 156.1433 or their designee.
HOME-BASED BUSINESS. An occupation, profession, or trade customarily carried on by an occupant in a dwelling unit or accessory structure as a secondary use, which is clearly incidental to the dwelling unit for residential purposes. (See Subchapter C, Part 4)
HOSPICE CARE FACILITY. A licensed facility providing palliative and supportive medical and health services to meet the physical, psychological, social, spiritual, and special needs of terminally ill patients and their families in a home-like setting.
HOSPITAL. A licensed facility that primarily provides in-patient medical, surgical, or psychiatric care. A hospital may also include out-patient services, offices, laboratories, meeting areas, teaching facilities, dining facilities, and maintenance facilities.
HOTEL (includes MOTEL and EXTENDED STAY). A building or group of attached or detached buildings containing more than 25 total guest rooms intended for rental or lease to transients by the day, week, or month, whether individually or combined in guest suites. A HOTEL shall have at least one full-time employee on site during daytime hours. A HOTEL typically provides services and amenities such as daily maid service, restaurant, meeting rooms, conference rooms and/or recreation facilities.
HOTEL, BOUTIQUE. A building or group of attached or detached buildings containing up to 25 total guest rooms intended for rental or lease to transients by the day, week, or month, whether individually or combined in guest suites. A BOUTIQUE HOTEL shall have at least one full-time employee on site during daytime hours. A BOUTIQUE HOTEL also shall provide services and amenities such as daily maid service and/or recreation facilities.
HOUSEHOLD. All the people who occupy a dwelling unit. The number of adults in a household shall not exceed two times the number of bedrooms in the dwelling unit.
ICE MANUFACTURING AND SALES. A self-contained facility that produces, stores, and packages ice for use by the owner or sale to other parties from the property.
IMPERVIOUS SURFACE. An area covering the ground that is continuous and made of non-porous material. This material prevents rainwater from passing through, impeding soil infiltration. It does not include elevated surfaces designed to allow rainwater to reach the soil underneath. Examples of impervious ground cover are a concrete or asphalt slab, sidewalk, swimming pool, building footprint, street, curbing, and covered decks. Any material is considered impervious when the Soil Conservation Service (SC) Curve Number is equal to or greater than 90.
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND SERVICES. This use group includes the following types of establishments, as defined in the 2022 North American Industry Classification System (NAICS):
(1) Software publishers (NAICS 5132);
(2) Custom computer programming services (NAICS 541511);
(3) Computer systems design services (NAICS 541512); and
(4) Computer facilities management services (NAICS 541513).
INITIAL ZONING. The zoning district applied at the time of annexation of a lot into the town’s jurisdiction.
INN. See HOTEL, BOUTIQUE.
LAYDOWN AREA. A temporary outdoor area associated with an approved construction project where construction materials and equipment are stored while the associated construction project is active.
LIGHTING. For all definitions related to exterior lighting, see Subchapter H, Part 3, Subpart 3.4.
LIVE-WORK UNIT. A principally non-residential building containing one dwelling unit that comprises up to 49% of the gross floor area, with the remainder of the building containing one non-residential use allowed in the zoning district.
LOADING SPACE. A space within the main building or on the same lot, providing for the standing, loading, or unloading of trucks.
LOCAL ARTISAN MARKET. A temporary retail facility that includes at least three vendors, all of whom sell locally handcrafted products.
LOT. A plot or parcel of land considered as a unit, devoted to a certain use or occupied by a building or group of buildings permitted in this chapter, and having its principal frontage upon a street or access in accordance with municipal regulations, and the customary accessories and open spaces belonging to the same.
LOT AREA. See AREA, LOT.
LOT, CORNER. A lot at the junction of, and fronting on, two or more streets (but not alleys) at their intersection (lot “A” in Figure 156.1681-3: Lot Diagram).
LOT, DEPTH. See § 156.1638.
LOT, DOUBLE FRONTAGE. A lot having a frontage on two streets (but not alleys), at a point other than at their intersection, as distinguished from corner lot (lot “C” in Figure 156.1681-3: Lot Diagram).
LOT, INTERIOR. A lot other than a corner lot, having frontage on only one street other than an alley (lot “B” in Figure 156.1681-3: Lot Diagram).
LOT LINE. The legal boundary of a parcel.
LOT OF RECORD. An area designated as a separate and distinct parcel of land on a legally recorded deed and/or approved plat as filed in the official records of the Charleston County Register of Deeds Office.
LOT WIDTH. See § 156.1637.
LOUNGE. See BAR.
LOW IMPACT DEVELOPMENT (LID). Low impact development (LID) is an approach to managing stormwater through systems that use or mimic natural processes for the infiltration, evapotranspiration, or reuse of stormwater and runoff on the site where it is generated. LID techniques reduce the amount of unt rea ted ru nof f dis ch arg ed to surface waters by allowing stormwater to be absorbed and cleansed by soil and vegetation before flowing into groundwater or surface water resources. This reduces stormwater maintenance costs and protects water quality.
MANUFACTURED HOUSING UNIT. A dwelling unit designed to be transported after fabrication on its own wheels, or on flatbed or other trailers or detachable wheels; arriving at the site where it is to be occupied in a dwelling complete and ready for occupancy, except for minor and incidental unpacking and assembly operations, connection to utilities, and the like. Such housing units shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's installation manual; in the absence of such a manual, such housing units shall be installed in accordance with all applicable state installation regulations.This definition includes mobile homes but does not include modular buildings, which are certified as such by the South Carolina Modular Building Construction Act of 1984, S.C. Code Title 43, Chapter 43, 1976, as amended.
MANUFACTURING AND PRODUCTION. Businesses engaged in the processing, manufacturing, production, compounding, assembly, packaging, treatment or fabrication of materials and products from processed or previously manufactured materials. This definition shall include incidental storage, wholesale sales, and distribution of such products.
MARICULTURE. A specialized branch of aquaculture involving the cultivation of marine organisms in salt water, usually by enclosing a portion of a natural waterway but also in tanks or ponds.
MARINA. A facility for storage, servicing, fueling, berthing, or securing of boats.
MARINE SALVAGE OPERATIONS. The use of any part of a lot, whether inside or outside of a building, for the storage, dismantling, and/or sale of objects recovered from waterways.
MARINE WAREHOUSING. An establishment for the storage, wholesale, and distribution of manufactured marine equipment, products, and supplies. This term does not include self-storage facilities or flex space.
MARKET-RATE HOUSING. Housing priced according to prevailing market trends and sold with no restrictions on either the sale price or on the buyer's income.
MARKETING, DESIGN, AND PUBLISHING SERVICES. This use group includes the following types of establishments, as defined in the 2022 North American Industry Classification System (NAICS):
(1) Book Publishers (NAICS 513130);
(2) Directory and Mailing List Publishers (NAICS 513140);
(3) All Other Publishers (NAICS 513199);
(4) Interior Design Services (NAICS 541410);
(5) Industrial Design Services (NAICS 541420);
(6) Graphic Design Services (NAICS 541430);
(7) Other Specialized Design Services (NAICS 541490);
(8) Marketing Consulting Services (NAICS 541613);
(9) Advertising Agencies (NAICS 541810);
(10) Public Relations Agencies (NAICS 541820);
(11) Media Buying Agencies (NAICS 541830);
(12) Indoor and Outdoor Display Advertising (NAICS 5411850);
(13) Direct Mail Advertising (NAICS 541860);
(14) Advertising Material Distribution Services (NAICS 541870);
(15) Other Services Related to Advertising (NAICS 541890); and
(16) Marketing Research and Public Opinion Polling (NAICS 541910).
MEDICAL, DENTAL, AND HOSPITAL EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES MERCHANT WHOLESALERS. Establishments primarily engaged in the merchant wholesale distribution of professional medical equipment, instruments, and supplies.
MEDICAL LABORATORY. Establishments primarily engaged in providing analytic or diagnostic services, generally to the medical profession or to the patient on referral from a health practitioner. Examples include blood analysis laboratories, medical pathology laboratories, medical bacteriological laboratories, medical testing laboratories, and medical forensic laboratories.
MIXED USE BUILDING. A building that contains a ground floor devoted to non-residential uses and one or more upper floors occupied by one or more dwelling units.
MOBILE FOOD PUSHCART. A limited food service unit that operates as an extension of a commissary.
MOBILE FOOD VENDING UNIT. A fully enclosed mobile kitchen that prepares, cooks, or serves time/temperature control for safety food as an extension of a commissary.
MOBILE FOOD VENDOR. A person selling food from a mobile food vending unit or a mobile food pushcart. This definition does not include solicitors, peddlers, or transient merchants.
MOBILE RETAIL VENDING UNIT. A truck, trailer, pushcart, or similar conveyance, whether operated under its own power or pushed or towed to a location, from which non-perishable goods or merchandise are sold to individual customers.
MOBILE RETAIL VENDOR. A person selling retail, non-food products from a mobile retail vending unit. This definition does not include solicitors, peddlers, or transient merchants.
MOBILE VENDING UNIT. A term that refers collectively to mobile food vending units, mobile food pushcarts, and mobile retail vending units.
MOBILE VENDOR. A term that refers collectively to mobile food vendors and mobile retail vendors.
MODULAR BUILDING. Any building of closed construction, regardless of type of construction or occupancy classification, other than a mobile or manufactured home, constructed off-site in accordance with the applicable codes and transported to the point of use for installation or erection. A MODULAR BUILDING includes the necessary electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilating, and other service systems necessary for permanent occupancy, and is not designed for ready removal to another site. A MODULAR BUILDING meets the requirements of the South Carolina Modular Buildings Construction Act (S.C. Code § 23-43).
MOTOR VEHICLE. Any vehicle that is self-propelled, as defined in S.C. Code § 56-5-130. For purposes of this chapter, this definition includes mopeds.
MOTOR VEHICLE OR WATERCRAFT SERVICE AND REPAIR. A business involving the upkeep, maintenance, and/or repair of motor vehicles and/or watercraft.
NEIGHBORHOOD GATHERING PLACE. An establishment intended for social meetings and low intensity commercial uses offering services such as, but not limited to, beauty salons, barber shops, and neighborhood general stores, and in some cases serving food and drinks. These establishments are generally locally-owned and operated and are intended to serve the immediate community.
NIGHTCLUB. See BAR.
NONCONFORMITY. A lawfully established lot, land use, structure, building, site feature, or sign that does not conform to the current regulations in this chapter.
NURSING HOME. See ASSISTED LIVING.
OFFICE, GENERAL. Use of a site for business, professional, or administrative offices, excluding medical offices. Typical uses include real estate, insurance, management, computer software or information systems research and development, or other business offices; organization and association offices; or law, architectural, engineering, accounting, or other professional offices. Retail sales do not comprise more than an ancillary aspect of the primary activity of a GENERAL OFFICE.
OFFICE, MEDICAL. Use of a site for facilities that provide medical treatment, preventative care, and/or outpatient physical or mental health care on a routine basis, but that do not provide overnight care or serve as a base for an ambulance service. MEDICAL OFFICES are operated by doctors, dentists, psychiatrists, or similar practitioners licensed by the State of South Carolina. Retail sales do not comprise more than an ancillary aspect of the primary activity of a medical office. This definition excludes medical laboratories.
OPEN SPACE. Land areas retained for use as active or passive recreation areas or for resource protection in an essentially undeveloped state. OPEN SPACE areas should be contiguous or connected to each other by a pedestrian and bicycle path or sidewalk system. OPEN SPACE areas intended for active or passive recreation use shall be of sufficient size so as to constitute meaningful and usable space. OPEN SPACE areas may include high ground and wetland buffer areas, but do not include freshwater or saltwater wetlands.
OPEN SPACE, NATURAL. An essentially undisturbed area not occupied by any structure or impervious surface. Pervious pedestrian trails are permitted in natural open space areas.
OPHTHALMIC GOODS MERCHANT WHOLESALERS. Establishments primarily engaged in the merchant wholesale distribution of professional equipment, instruments, and/or goods sold, prescribed, or used by ophthalmologists, optometrists, and opticians.
OUTDOOR DINING. An open-air dining area of an eating and/or drinking establishment enclosed by three or fewer walls of the building in which the eating and/or drinking establishment is located. These areas may be open to the elements and temporarily enclosed by means such as fencing, walls, plastic, or other enclosing materials and methods due to inclement weather.
OUTDOOR RETAIL DISPLAY. A limited type of outdoor storage located on the same lot as a retail sales establishment where merchandise is displayed for sale.
OUTDOOR STORAGE. The keeping, other than in a fully enclosed building, of any goods, materials, or merchandise on a parcel for any period of time. A “fully enclosed” building includes a roof and walls on all sides, such that materials and activities located within the building are not visible from outside the building except through windows and doors.
PARCEL. A piece of land that can be owned and conveyed. Each parcel in Charleston County has a unique Parcel Identification (PID) or Tax Map Sequence (TMS) number.
PARK. A public or private area of land, with or without buildings, intended for outdoor active or passive recreational uses.
PARKING SPACE. The area required for parking one vehicle.
PARKING SPACE, TANDEM. The arrangement of not more than two parking spaces in depth, wherein one space is located directly in front of another space, such that it is necessary to pass through one space in order to enter or leave the other space.
PARKING STRUCTURE (includes the terms PARKING GARAGE, PARKING DECK, PODIUM PARKING, and UNDERGROUND or UNDER-BUILDING PARKING). A structure designed to accommodate vehicular parking spaces that are fully or partially enclosed or located on the deck surface of the structure.
PARKING, SURFACE. Parking areas not located within a building.
PATIO. A level surfaced area adjacent to a building at finished grade, without permanent walls or a roof. A PATIO is typically constructed from concrete, brick, stone, or other masonry material.
PERSONAL AND BUSINESS SUPPORT SERVICES. Establishments providing specialized services to individuals and organizations to assist with the maintenance of their person and effects or organizational needs. Such services include, but are not limited to, dry cleaners and laundries; tailors, dressmakers, and alterations shops; cleaning services; beauty and barber salons; medical spas, including microblading services; photography studios; computer and electronics repair; and print and copy shops. These uses may also include ancillary retail sales of products related to the services provided.
PERSONAL IMPROVEMENT EDUCATION. Establishments providing specialized instruction and/or training in a particular subject or hobby to students of any age. Examples of this use include, but are not limited to, fine arts schools, including music, art, and dance; and driving schools for motor vehicles not requiring a Commercial Driver's License (CDL).
PERSONAL WATERCRAFT. A vessel with a hull length of 15 feet or less, having as its primary source of propulsion an inboard motor powering a jet pump or an outboard motor with a horsepower rating of less than 15 horsepower. PERSONAL WATERCRAFT are designed to be operated by a person or persons sitting, standing, or kneeling.
PERSONAL WATERCRAFT include, but are not limited to, jet skis, wet bikes, surf jets, and miniature speedboats.
PERVIOUS SURFACE. A surface covering the ground that consists of porous or non-compacted loose material that allows water to pass through. Examples are manufactured pervious pavers and parking spaces, loose gravel, rocks, and sand. PERVIOUS SURFACES allow water to infiltrate to the underlying soil. PERVIOUS SURFACES allow rainwater to reach the ground surface directly underneath.
PET CARE SERVICE. An establishment primarily engaged in providing services for household pets, such as grooming and training. Animals may be kept in indoor kennels before and/or after a service, but in no case for more than 24 hours. This definition excludes animal boarding facilities and daycares, animal shelters, and veterinary clinics.
PET SUPPLY STORE. A retail establishment primarily engaged in the sale of products related to the care of household pets, such as food, toys, and medicines.
PHARMACY. An establishment primarily engaged in preparing and dispensing prescription medications.
PLANNED DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT. A mixed use development project comprised of housing of different types and densities and of compatible commercial uses, such as shopping centers and office parks. A PLANNED DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT is established by rezoning prior to development and is characterized by a unified site design for a mixed use development.
PLANNING COMMISSION. The Town of Mount Pleasant Planning Commission, established in accordance with the South Carolina Local Government Comprehensive Planning Enabling Act. (See Subchapter J)
PLANNING COMMISSION SECRETARY. The staff person designated to assist the Planning Commission as specified in § 156.1433 or their designee.
PLANNING DIRECTOR. See DIRECTOR OF PLANNING, LAND USE, AND NEIGHBORHOODS.
PLAT. A map, plan, or layout of a tract of land, or a section or subdivision of land, indicating the location and boundaries of individual properties.
PLAZA. A publicly- or privately-owned public space located at ground level, partially enclosed by one or more buildings or parking areas, and predominantly open to the sky. A plaza is primarily hardscaped or covered in turf, may also include shade trees or shade structures and other landscaping, and may incorporate water features and public art. Figures 156.1681-4 and 156.1681-5 provide examples.
POCKET PARK. A small open space available for informal activities in close proximity to dwellings and/or workplaces that often contains benches or other seating areas but does not contain buildings. Pocket parks must be designed and located to be accessible to occupants of the property. Figure 156.1681-6 provides an example.
PORT. A facility for the docking, loading, and unloading of ships.
PORTABLE OFFICE UNIT. Any small, compact structure used for general or medical office purposes that is mounted on skids or otherwise constructed so that it can be readily moved from one location to another without change in structure or design, with the exception of the foundation or method of support.
PORTABLE STORAGE UNIT. Any container designed for the storage of personal property which is typically rented to owners or occupants of property for their temporary use and which is delivered and removed by truck.
PRELIMINARY STAFF REVIEW. A non- binding review of an impact assessment or a proposed new/amended Planned Development District by Department of Planning and Development staff required prior to formal submittal of the proposal to the Planning Commission and Town Council.
PRODUCTION STUDIO. A facility specially equipped for broadcasting, filming, and/or recording music, motion pictures, television shows, radio programs, and the like.
PUBLIC PROJECT. Any project by or for a public agency using real property, as owner or tenant, that falls within the jurisdiction of the Town of Mount Pleasant. These public agencies include: agencies and departments of the state; counties and county agencies and departments; and municipalities and municipal agencies and departments.
PUBLIC REALM. All exterior places, linkages, and built form elements that are physically and/or visually accessible regardless of ownership. These elements may include, but are not limited to, streets, pedestrian ways, bikeways, bridges, plazas, nodes, squares, transportation hubs, gateways, parks, waterfronts, natural features, view corridors, and landmarks. The PUBLIC REALM is organized into four categories: parks, streetscapes, coastal and waterfront areas, and public spaces. These categories may have differing ownership and maintenance arrangements, and are defined as follows:
(1) PARKS. Public open spaces within a community intended for active or passive recreational use.
(2) STREETSCAPES. The visual elements of a street, including the road, sidewalk, street furnishings, trees, and open spaces, that combine to form the street's character.
(3) COASTAL AND WATERFRONT AREAS. All land areas along the water's edge and the connections between these areas and the streetscape.
(4) PUBLIC SPACES. All open areas within a community visible to the public or for public gathering or assembly.
PUSHCART. A non-self-propelled vehicle designed to be readily moveable, from which merchandise or food is sold.
RECREATION AND ENTERTAINMENT, COMMERCIAL. Any establishment not meeting the definition of high-impact entertainment or high-impact recreation which receives a fee in return for providing the general public with an amusing or entertaining activity including, but not limited to, swimming pools, tennis facilities, bowling alleys, billiards, laser tag facilities, skating rinks, indoor go-karts, theatres, movie theatres, gyms, and fitness centers.
RECREATION, COMMUNITY. Recreational facilities and structures generally serving the area at large and having a greater impact on its surroundings than neighborhood recreation. Facilities may or may not charge a fee, but are generally not commercial establishments. Examples include, but are not limited to, multiple playing fields or courts, large-tract passive parks, pools, Alhambra Hall, and the G.M. Darby Building.
RECREATION, HIGH-IMPACT. Any commercial recreational establishment with the potential for high vehicle trip generation and/or which has a greater potential for nuisance to adjacent properties due to noise, light, or glare. Examples include but are not limited to outdoor go-karts, mini-golf, waterpark, and driving ranges.
RECREATION, NEIGHBORHOOD. Recreational facilities and structures generally serving a small area such as a subdivision and having a low impact on its surroundings. Facilities are generally not illuminated, and may or may not charge a nominal fee. Examples include, but are not limited to, courts and ball fields, playgrounds, and kayak launches.
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE. A vehicle which is built on a single chassis; designed to be self-propelled or permanently towable by a car, sport-utility vehicle, or light duty truck; and designed to be used as a temporary dwelling for travel, recreational, or vacation purposes. This definition includes pickup campers, converted buses, tiny houses on wheels, and pop-up campers.
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE PARK. A non-residential use of a parcel of land for temporary overnight use by recreational vehicles for which a fee may be charged. Recreational vehicle camping areas may involve site improvements, such as concrete pads, parking areas, or fire pits, but may not include permanent utility hookups.
RECYCLING FACILITY. An establishment engaged in the collection, storage, transfer, and/or processing of recyclable materials. This does not include collection bins typically seen behind shopping centers or at government facilities.
REHABILITATION. The process of returning a property to a state of utility, through repair or alteration, that makes possible an efficient contemporary use, while preserving those portions and features of the property significant to its historic, architectural, and cultural values.
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT FACILITY. An establishment in which an organization conducts investigative activities for the purpose of developing new products, procedures, or processes, or improving existing products, procedures, or processes. Such facility may include limited on-site production of related goods.
RESIDENTIAL TREATMENT FACILITY. An establishment providing for the assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and/or care of children, adolescents, or adults with mental illness, substance abuse, or other behavioral problems. Services may include educational programs, individual and family counseling programs, occupational training programs or facilities, and recreational facilities, all accommodated in a residential setting.
RESOURCE EXTRACTION. A use involving on-site extraction of surface or subsurface mineral products or natural resources. Typical uses are quarries, borrow pits, sand and gravel operations, mining, and soil mining. Specifically excluded from this use is timber harvesting; silviculture; grading and removal of dirt associated with an approved site plan or subdivision; or excavations associated with, and for the improvement of, a bona fide agricultural use.
RESOURCE PROCESSING AND STORAGE. A use involving on-site separation or aggregation of mineral products and/or extracted natural resources, such as mulching or chipping, and/or storage of mineral products and/or extracted natural resources such as trees, dirt, and similar materials.
RESTAURANT. An establishment whose principal business is the sale of food and/or beverages to customers in a ready-to-consume state.
RETAIL CENTER. Two or more tenants occupying less than 40,000 square feet of retail space. A retail center may accommodate tenants in individual units within a single building or within multiple buildings.
RETAIL SALES. Establishments that form the final step in the distribution of merchandise. RETAIL SALES establishments are organized to sell goods in small quantities to the general public for personal or household consumption, though they may also serve businesses and institutions. Some establishments may further provide after-sales services, such as repair and installation.
RIGHT-OF-WAY. An area of land not on a lot that is dedicated for public or private use to accommodate pedestrian, bicycle, and vehicular movement and necessary public utility infrastructure (including, but not limited, to water lines, sewer lines, power lines, and gas lines). In no case shall a right-of-way be construed to mean an easement.
ROOMING HOUSE. See DWELLING, GROUP.
RURAL COMPOUND. A living arrangement where multiple principal detached houses are established on one or more lots of record.
SCDOT ARMS MANUAL. The South Carolina Department of Transportation Access and Roadside Access Management Standards Manual.
SEAFOOD PROCESSING. An activity that changes the physical condition of a seafood product, including heading, gutting, filleting, tailing, cleansing, butchering, pickling, sating, shucking, or smoking.
SETBACK. See BUILDING LINE.
SHOPPING CENTER. A group of at least four tenants occupying 40,000 square feet of retail space or greater. A shopping center may accommodate tenants in individual units within a single building or within multiple buildings.
SHORT-TERM RENTAL.
(1) The rental or lease of a residential dwelling unit or portion thereof for a duration of less than 30 consecutive days; or
(2) Home-based business and tourist accommodations, including hotel (includes motel and extended stay), hotel, boutique (includes inn) and similar accommodations located on property in a commercial zoning district are not considered SHORT-TERM RENTALS.
(3) This definition shall apply to any and all businesses that qualified as a bed and breakfast under previous town ordinances.
SHRUB. Typically a woody perennial that does not achieve tree proportions at maturity.
SIGN. For all definitions related to signs, see Subchapter G.
SIGN PERMIT. See ZONING PERMIT.
SITE AREA. See AREA, SITE.
SITE FEATURE. An element on a lot, other than a building, that the Zoning Code requires as a condition of development or redevelopment. SITE FEATURES include bufferyards, landscaping, and parking, but exclude signs and exterior lighting.
SPECIAL EXCEPTION. Use of property granted only by review and approval of the Board of Zoning Appeals, subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the Zoning Ordinance and as determined by the Board.
SPECIAL FLOOD HAZARD AREA. See Chapter 152.
SPECIALTY FOOD STORE. A retail establishment specializing in the sale of a specific type or category of foods, such as a bakery, delicatessen, butcher shop, fish market, ice cream and frozen yogurt shop, bagel shop, coffee and tea shop, confectionery and candy shop, gourmet food shop, or ethnic or cultural food shop.
SPLIT-ZONED LOT. A lot that is located in two or more zoning districts.
SPORTS COMPLEX. A facility, generally not commercial in nature, with or without seating for spectators, and providing accommodations for a variety of individual, organized sports, including but not limited to basketball, wrestling, soccer, tennis, volleyball, football, baseball, or swimming pool. Such facility may also provide other regular organized events; health and fitness club facilities; snack bar; limited retail sales of related sports, health, or fitness items; and other support facilities.
STABLE. A structure in which horses or other large animals are kept for the purposes of boarding, breeding, personal use, or training, provided any training is limited to those animals being boarded on the property.
STORY (including BUILDING FLOOR). An articulated, distinct level of separation in a building or structure located between the finished surface upon which one may stand and the finished ceiling, having a minimum vertical distance of seven feet at its apex, specifically including a ground level component used for parking or storage, and excluding the following: unfinished attic space without permanent stair access, located within a roof structure, and used exclusively for storage or building support components such as water heaters, HVAC components, and the like; and a basement or crawl-space area.
STORY, HALF. The space under a gabled or hipped roof where the wall plates, or knee walls, on at least two opposite exterior walls are not more than two feet above the finished floor of such story. The aggregate width of dormers on a half-story shall not exceed 50% of the width of the exterior wall below the dormer(s).
STREET, MAJOR. A public right-of-way, generally containing four or more travel lanes.
STREET, PRIMARY. The public or private street, public or private access easement, drive aisle, or public waterway that a building’s primary façade typically must face if the building is subject to the design review process (see Subchapter I, Part 12). Exceptions may be made in consideration of conditions such as differences in elevation of the adjacent street and subject property, historic tree location, the presence of abutting frontage roads, and the width of required right-of-way bufferyards. The designated reviewing authority determines the PRIMARY STREET.
STREETSIDE DINING. These areas shall be located within the activity zone, and are specifically required to be open air, unconditioned dining, open to the elements and not enclosed by any means, such as fencing, walls, plastic, or other enclosing materials and methods; except that awnings shall be allowed. Temporary planters for landscaping may be used to delineate the dining area, but may not impede pedestrian access.
STRUCTURE. Anything constructed or erected that requires a fixed location on the ground, or is attached to something having a fixed location on the ground, including, but not limited to, buildings, manufactured homes, signs, billboards, backstops for athletic activities, swimming pools, walls, and fences. The term STRUCTURE shall be construed as if followed by the words “or part thereof.”
STRUCTURE, ACCESSORY. A structure located on the same lot as the principal structure to which it is related and that is clearly incidental to, and customarily found in connection with, the principal use or structure.
STRUCTURE FOOTPRINT. See BUILDING FOOTPRINT.
STRUCTURE, PRINCIPAL. A structure within which the principal use is conducted.
SUBSTANTIAL ECONOMIC HARDSHIP. Hardship of a financial or economic nature that makes it impossible or unnecessarily difficult to maintain an historic property in accordance with the historic district design guidelines.
SWEETGRASS BASKET STAND. An open-air stand from which baskets handmade from locally grown sweetgrass are sold.
TANDEM PARKING SPACE. See PARKING SPACE, TANDEM.
TATTOO or TATTOOING. To indelibly mark or color the skin by subcutaneous introduction of nontoxic dyes or pigments.
TECHNICAL REVIEW AND CODE COMPLIANCE TEAM. A group of town staff that reviews certain development proposals for compliance with the Zoning Code, Land Development Regulations, and other applicable regulations. (See Subchapter J)
TERMINAL VISTA. The building or landscape element that is visible at the end of a street, or along the outside edge of a curve.
TESTING LABORATORIES AND SERVICES. Establishments primarily engaged in performing physical, chemical, and other analytical testing services, such as acoustics or vibration testing, assaying, biological testing (except medical and veterinary), calibration testing, electrical and electronic testing, geotechnical testing, mechanical testing, nondestructive testing, or thermal testing. The testing may occur in a laboratory or on-site.
THEATER. A building or portion thereof devoted to showing motion pictures, or for dramatic, dance, musical, or other live performances.
TINY HOUSE. A detached house dwelling that is 400 square feet or less in gross floor area, excluding lofts. A “loft” is a floor level located more than 30 inches above the main floor, open to the main floor on one or more sides with a ceiling height of less than six feet, eight inches and used as a living or sleeping space.
TINY HOUSE ON WHEELS. See RECREATIONAL VEHICLE.
TOWN ENGINEER. The Deputy Director of the Engineering and Environmental Division of the Engineering and Development Services Department, or their designee.
TRAILER. Any vehicle or structure, capable of moving, or being moved, over streets and highways on its own wheels or on flatbeds or other carriers, that is designed or utilized to: provide temporary or permanent quarters for the conduct of a business, profession, trade, or occupation; serve as a carrier of new or used goods, products, or equipment; or be used as a selling, advertising, or display device. A TRAILER is not used as a residence or for permanent sleeping quarters, such as a manufactured home.
TRANSPORTATION TERMINAL. A facility for loading, unloading, and interchange of passengers, baggage, and incidental freight or package express between modes of ground transportation, including bus terminals, truck terminals, and public transit facilities.
TRAVEL TRAILER. See RECREATIONAL VEHICLE.
TREE. Any living, self-supporting, woody perennial plant, usually having one dominant trunk and a mature height greater than 16 feet.
TREE, CANOPY. A woody perennial typically capable of achieving heights exceeding 30 feet at maturity.
TREE REMOVAL PERMIT. See ZONING PERMIT.
TREE, UNDERSTORY. A woody perennial with a smaller size at maturity than canopy species, typically with a size between 16 feet and 30 feet at maturity.
UNDEVELOPED LOT. A lot that has never been occupied by a structure or a use without a structure, including a parking lot.
USE. The purpose or activity for which land or structures are designed, arranged, intended, occupied, and/or maintained.
USE, ACCESSORY. See ACCESSORY BUILDING, STRUCTURE, OR USE.
USE, CIVIC (also USE, INSTITUTIONAL). Utility, educational, recreational, cultural, medical, protective, governmental, and other uses that provide public or quasi-public services and are strongly vested with social importance. Examples include, but are not limited to, the following: city halls; post offices; police and fire stations; schools; museums; universities; public parks; meeting halls; libraries; transit centers; and parking structures.
USE, CONDITIONAL. A use not otherwise permitted in a district, and which would not be appropriate generally or without restriction throughout a zoning district, but which, if controlled as to number, area, location, relation to the neighborhoods, and subject to the conditions noted, would promote the public health, safety, welfare, order, comfort, convenience, appearance, proprietary, or general welfare of the town.
USE, NON-RESIDENTIAL. Any use other than a RESIDENTIAL USE (e.g., commercial, retail, office, civic, or institutional use).
USE, PERMITTED. Any use allowed in a given zoning district without a requirement for conditional or special exception approval.
USE, PRINCIPAL. The main or primary purpose for which a building, other structure, and/or lot is designed, arranged, or intended, or for which they may be used, occupied, or maintained under this chapter. The use of any other building, other structure, and/or land on the same lot and incidental or supplementary thereto and permitted under this chapter shall be considered an accessory use.
USE, PUBLIC. A building or property owned or occupied by a use which is open to all people, without or with minimal restrictions or regard as to membership, and which is established for their common or general use and enjoyment. A church is a PUBLIC USE.
USE, QUASI-PUBLIC. Essentially public (as in services rendered) although under private ownership or control. Examples of QUASI-PUBLIC USES include institutional, academic, and community service uses.
USE, RESIDENTIAL. Any use that includes only dwelling units and their customary accessory uses, but no other uses.
USE, SEMI-PUBLIC. A building or property owned or occupied by an organization, institution, or group of people with written and adopted rules for membership, that are used or enjoyed primarily by that group.
USE, TEMPORARY. A use established for a limited duration with the intent to discontinue such use upon the expiration of the time period. This definition excludes uses and events customarily associated with the principal land use (e.g., weddings at a place of worship, sporting events at a stadium).
VALUE-ADDED AGRICULTURAL PRODUCT. This term is defined in 7 CFR 4284.902: Definitions (USDA Rural Business-Cooperative Service Value-Added Producer Grant Program).
VARIANCE. A modification of the strict terms of this chapter granted by the Board of Zoning Appeals where such modification will not be contrary to the public interest, and where, owing to conditions peculiar to the property and not as the result of any action on the part of the property owner, a literal enforcement of the chapter would result in unnecessary and undue hardship.
VERGE. The typically grassed area located adjacent to the street, between the back of curb or edge of pavement and the sidewalk.
VETERINARY CLINIC. An establishment for the care, observation, and/or treatment of animals and where animals may be boarded indoors during their convalescence.
WAREHOUSING FACILITY. An establishment for the storage, wholesale, and distribution of manufactured equipment, products, and supplies. This term does not include self-storage facilities or flex space.
WAREHOUSING, MARINE. See MARINE WAREHOUSING.
WASTE-RELATED SERVICES. Establishments that receive solid or liquid wastes from others for disposal on the site or for transfer to another location, uses that collect sanitary wastes, or uses that manufacture or produce goods or energy from the biological decomposition of organic material.
WATER-DEPENDENT. Activities that require access to a water body and which can be carried out only on, in, or adjacent to a water body.
WATER-RELATED. Activities not directly dependent upon access to a water body, but that provide goods or services principally associated with water-dependent uses.
WATER TAXI. A vessel offered for hire for the purpose of transporting passengers to and from properties adjacent to local waterways or between properties adjacent to local waterways and another vessel. WATER TAXIS do not include any vessel hired overnight, charter boats, or personal watercraft.
WHOLESALE SALES. The sale or distribution of merchandise to retailers; industrial, commercial, institutional, or professional business users; or to other wholesalers.
WILD GAME PROCESSING FACILITY. An establishment that renders legally killed wild animals, fish, and/or game into packaged cuts of meat, meat products, or other products.
WINERY. A facility used for the commercial purpose of the production of wine or similar spirits. The facility may incorporate all aspects of production, including aging, storage, bottling, wholesale sales, warehousing, and administrative office functions. Retail sales, tasting facilities, and event facilities may be permitted as part of the facility operations.
YARD, FRONT. A yard situated between the front building line and the front lot line extending the full width of the lot.
YARD, REAR. A yard situated between the rear building line and the rear lot line and extending the full width of the lot.
YARD SALE. The sale of miscellaneous household items from a lot containing an occupied dwelling unit.
YARD, SIDE. A yard situated between a side building line and side lot line and extending from the front yard to the rear yard.
ZONING ADMINISTRATOR. The individual designated to administer and enforce the Zoning Code or their designee.
ZONING DISTRICT. An area or areas within the limits of the town for which the regulations and requirements governing use, lot, and bulk for buildings and premises are uniform.
ZONING PERMIT. An authorization required prior to establishment of the use or commencement of development activities. See Subchapter I, Part 7.
ZONING MAP. The map or maps that delineate the boundaries of all mapped zoning districts within the town’s corporate limits which, along with the text in this chapter, comprises the Zoning Code.
(Ord. passed 1-14-25)
