Proposed Ordinances and Amendments
Proposed Ordinances
Master Plan Zoning
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In Sussex County officials are considering establishing a master plan zone to give property owners the option to develop large mixed-use commercial and residential projects. This is in line with a goal set out in the county's 2018 comprehensive land-use plan.
A master plan is a long-term plan that provides a conceptual layout for future urban growth and development. It's also known as a comprehensive plan, general plan, or land-use plan. A master plan is a guide for land use in the future, and it's not a binding legal document. It's typically a report or statement that includes land use and development proposals, maps, charts, diagrams, and text. To prepare a master plan, it's important to conduct extensive studies of current conditions, development trends, regional factors, and future growth prospects.
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A master plan is different from a zoning ordinance, which is a law that regulates the use of land in the present.
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SPC and some allied organization successfully lobbied officials to delay passage of this plan. Although the plan is a significant step in responsible growth planning SPC and it's allies believe there is more work to do to be successful.
Read their joint public comment document
Proposed Amendments
Perimeter Buffers
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A perimeter buffer is a managed area of planted or existing trees and shrubs and associated landscaping located along the entire outer perimeter of any portion of a major subdivision. No lots or stormwater management facilities (with the exception of outfalls) shall exist within a perimeter buffer. Sussex County has been considering expansion of the current perimeter buffer ordinance.
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SPC and it's allies have been working with County Council and P&Z staff to develop meaningful and effective updates to this ordinance.