Lancaster County, South Carolina, October 8, 2025
News Summary
Lancaster County, SC, is set to vote on a nine-month moratorium on new residential developments. This decision comes amid rapid growth in the Indian Land area, where numerous projects are underway, raising community concerns. The council aims to revise the Unified Development Ordinance to better manage future growth. Existing approved projects will not be affected by this temporary measure, and community feedback has been significant, with local petitions gathering over 300 signatures in support of the moratorium.
Lancaster County, South Carolina is on the verge of implementing a nine-month moratorium on new residential developments as it grapples with a surge in growth. The Lancaster County Council is scheduled to vote on the ordinance on October 13, which would temporarily halt the construction of apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes in specific areas known as the Panhandle or Indian Land, including parts of the Town of Van Wyck. Existing, approved projects and commercial, industrial, and civic developments will not be affected, nor will private home builds.
County Administrator Dennis Marstall has indicated that the council has been reviewing a draft of a new Unified Development Ordinance (UDO), aimed at updating guidelines for future developments and ensuring compliance with new standards. The last revision of the UDO was approximately in 2016, prompting the urgency for improvements as growth continues.
The Indian Land/Panhandle area has seen considerable activity recently, with 18 housing developments approved, resulting in nearly 7,500 new lots as of February 2025. The rapid pace of these developments has raised concerns within the community, leading to discussions and feedback from residents to the county council. An online petition advocating for a 180-day moratorium on housing developments has already garnered over 300 signatures, signifying significant community pushback against current growth levels.
The proposed UDO aims to address crucial factors such as housing density, materials used, open space requirements, and stormwater management, to enhance the community’s quality of life amid its ongoing expansion. This comprehensive rewrite of the entire development ordinance is expected to be completed by mid-2025. In light of the increased construction activity, over 600 new home construction permits have been issued from January to August 2025, further contributing to the rapid growth trend.
In recent actions, the county has denied at least six development projects in the past two years, highlighting its heightened assessment of new proposals. Supporters of the upcoming moratorium are concurrently proposing a tax plan for roads, expected to be placed on the ballot next year. The intention is to allow for adequate infrastructure planning in alignment with the new growth projections, as community advocates seek a sustainable approach to Lancaster’s development.
FAQ
What is the reason for the nine-month moratorium on new residential developments in Lancaster County?
The moratorium is being implemented due to rapid growth in residential and commercial developments, allowing for the comprehensive review of the current Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) and infrastructure planning.
When is the vote on the moratorium scheduled?
The vote on the moratorium is scheduled for October 13.
Which areas will the moratorium affect?
The moratorium will apply specifically to areas known as the Panhandle or Indian Land, which includes parts of the Town of Van Wyck.
How will existing developments be impacted by the moratorium?
Projects that have already been approved will not be affected by the moratorium.
What role does the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) revision play in this process?
The UDO revision aims to update guidelines for future builds and ensure they comply with modern standards, addressing issues like housing density, materials used, and stormwater management.
Key Features of the Moratorium
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Moratorium Duration | Nine months |
| Vote Date | October 13 |
| Affected Areas | Indian Land/Panhandle, including parts of Van Wyck |
| Impact on Existing Projects | Approved projects unaffected |
| New Home Permits Issued (2025) | Over 600 from January to August |
| Community Petition | Over 300 signatures gathered |
| Focus of UDO revision | Housing density, materials, open space, stormwater management |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Library System of Lancaster County Faces Budget Crisis
Lancaster County Expands Neurological Services with New Specialists
Construction Begins on Indian Land Medical Center
MUSC Health Breaks Ground on New Indian Land Hospital
Lancaster County Engineering Unveils Comprehensive Road Plan
Economic Challenges in Lancaster County Amid Fluctuating Tariffs
Lancaster County Opens New Airport Terminal
Middle College Lets Students Earn AA with Diploma
York County Approves Major Development Incentives
Rock Hill Schools Celebrate Successful New School Year Start
Additional Resources
- WBTV: Lancaster County Moratorium on Residential Development
- QC News: Housing Moratorium Petition in Lancaster County
- Lancaster Online: AI Regulations and Moratoriums
- WSOC TV: Petition for Housing Development Pause in Lancaster County
- Google Search: Lancaster County South Carolina housing development moratorium
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