Zoning Board Considers Controversial Outdoor Storage Facility
June 27, 2024 | Dorchester County, South Carolina
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The Dorchester Board of Zoning Appeals convened recently to discuss a special exception request for an outdoor storage facility in an Agricultural Residential (AR) district along Highway 17A. The application aims to allow commercial outdoor storage, which is currently not permitted in this zoning classification without a special exception.
The proposed site, located just over half a mile from the intersection of Highway 61, is primarily accessed via Canaan Road, a residential route serving a small community. The board reviewed a conceptual site plan that had previously been assessed by the Technical Review Committee (TRC). While the TRC does not grant final approval, it provides guidance on the requirements necessary for a complete application.
Key considerations discussed included the need for buffering and compliance with the transitional overlay district regulations due to the proximity to Highway 17A. The board noted that the area is predominantly rural and that the proposed use could be compatible with the surrounding environment, although concerns were raised regarding traffic safety, particularly a tight 45-degree turn onto Canaan Road from Highway 17A.
Staff recommended approval of the application, contingent upon the applicant meeting all federal, state, and county regulations, including a review by the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) and the county transportation manager. These reviews are intended to ensure that the increased traffic resulting from the outdoor storage facility does not create safety hazards on Highway 17A.
The board emphasized the importance of setting conditions to mitigate potential negative impacts on the neighborhood, including the possibility of restricting the types of items stored on the property. The discussion highlighted the need for careful consideration of the site plan as it progresses from conceptual to detailed design, ensuring compliance with all applicable standards.
Public comments will be solicited in future meetings, allowing community members to voice their opinions on the proposed outdoor storage facility. The board's decision will ultimately hinge on balancing the applicant's needs with the interests of the local community and environmental considerations.
The proposed site, located just over half a mile from the intersection of Highway 61, is primarily accessed via Canaan Road, a residential route serving a small community. The board reviewed a conceptual site plan that had previously been assessed by the Technical Review Committee (TRC). While the TRC does not grant final approval, it provides guidance on the requirements necessary for a complete application.
Key considerations discussed included the need for buffering and compliance with the transitional overlay district regulations due to the proximity to Highway 17A. The board noted that the area is predominantly rural and that the proposed use could be compatible with the surrounding environment, although concerns were raised regarding traffic safety, particularly a tight 45-degree turn onto Canaan Road from Highway 17A.
Staff recommended approval of the application, contingent upon the applicant meeting all federal, state, and county regulations, including a review by the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) and the county transportation manager. These reviews are intended to ensure that the increased traffic resulting from the outdoor storage facility does not create safety hazards on Highway 17A.
The board emphasized the importance of setting conditions to mitigate potential negative impacts on the neighborhood, including the possibility of restricting the types of items stored on the property. The discussion highlighted the need for careful consideration of the site plan as it progresses from conceptual to detailed design, ensuring compliance with all applicable standards.
Public comments will be solicited in future meetings, allowing community members to voice their opinions on the proposed outdoor storage facility. The board's decision will ultimately hinge on balancing the applicant's needs with the interests of the local community and environmental considerations.
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