Berkeley County’s Rural Growth Plan | Charleston News

Berkeley County is testing a bold new zoning idea for rural areas: Transitional Agricultural Zoning lets developers build on tiny lots—down to 16,000 sq ft—but demands they preserve half the land as permanent open space. The goal? Growth without losing the countryside. Developers can cluster homes if public water’s available, and stormwater ponds are allowed (up to 30% of conserved land, designed for 100-year storms). Wide road buffers—including a 200-ft greenway—add visual and environmental protection. But critics warn it could strain infrastructure, harm wetlands, and increase crime, urging focus on fixing what’s already there. Officials say this is smart, responsible growth that still obeys existing environmental rules. The council has paused final approval, sending it back to the land use committee for more review before voting again.

Listen in comfort:
Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn.

Advertise on DNN:
[email protected]

This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.
Report issues to [email protected].

View sources & latest updates:
https://sources.thednn.ai/72e335dbc855c5fc