Zoning is the way the County controls the physical development of land and the kinds of uses to which each individual property may be put. Zoning regulates the activities that are acceptable for each particular property, the densities at which those activities can be performed, the height of buildings, the amount of space structures may occupy (Floor Area Ratio), the location of a building on the lot (Setbacks), the proportions of the types of space on a lot (pervious and impervious coverage) and parking requirements. The entire county has been zoned as of April 17, 2001. For a complete description of each zoning district, please consult the Horry County Zoning Ordinance, or call the Planning Department to speak with a planner.
Horry County Council passed an ordinance on February 1, 2005, establishing 24 new commercial and agriculture zoning districts for all future rezoning requests. The Horry County Planning Commission and the Planning Department created the new zoning districts to be more specific and focused on particular land-use activities.
On May 1, 2007, Horry County Council passed an ordinance re-titling all residential zoning classifications. This re-titling is based on the minimum square-footage of lots and does NOT affect property setbacks or allowable land uses. However the minimum square-footage of the lots may have lowered, while some have remained the same.
The PDD (Planned Development District) zoning district is intended to allow flexibility in development and encourage the use of innovative site planning techniques resulting in developments with improved design, character, and quality which preserve natural and scenic open spaces. A PDD is characterized by a plan that may incorporate housing of different types and densities and compatible commercial, institutional, and industrial developments. A PDD also allows for the establishment of dimensional and use requirements unique to the property to accommodate flexibility in the arrangement of uses within the project for the general purpose of promoting and protecting the public health, safety, and general welfare. The provisions of the PDD District are found in the County’s Zoning Ordinance under Section 721. Information on rezoning to the PDD is available at the Planning Department.
The TND (Traditional Neighborhood Development) zoning district was adopted by the County in June 2007. The intent and purpose of the TND is to encourage the development and redevelopment of compact, attractive, and walkable mixed use neighborhoods consistent with the design principles of Traditional Neighborhood Design. This involves connecting a range of activities in a cohesive pedestrian friendly environment. TND fosters efficient use of land and infrastructure such as roads, water, sewer and other utilities. The TND encourages a variety of housing types and styles that provide accommodations for a range of ages, family sizes and income levels. The provisions and procedures of the TND are found in the County’s Zoning Ordinance under Section 750. Information on rezoning to the TND is available at the Planning Department.