Chapin Unified Zoning and Development Ordinance

Chapin’s burgeoning growth near Columbia and Lake Murray demanded a clearer path for development. Outdated zoning ordinances clashed with the Town’s Comprehensive Plan, creating inconsistency and roadblocks for applicants. Partnering with Chapin, we embarked on a multi-phase project to streamline regulations and unify ordinances into a modern Unified Development Ordinance (UDO).

Public engagement was at the heart of this project. We worked with Town staff, stakeholders, and residents to gather valuable input on crucial aspects like tree removal, signage, and housing types. As the Town’s vision evolved, so did our approach. We responded to the Town’s desire for enhanced overlay design standards and specific residential design requirements as part of the overall UDO creation.

The draft UDO, crafted through extensive collaboration, has received resounding recommendations from the Steering Committee, Planning Commission, and Architectural Review Board. The final draft of the UDO has been approved and adopted by the Town.

Big Idea

Create a plan for development in Chapin