Charleston, South Carolina, October 14, 2025
News Summary
The Charleston County Planning Commission approved a rezoning application for Storybook Farm on Johns Island, permitting the development of up to 100 townhomes. The decision was made despite staff recommendations for disapproval due to concerns about traffic, flooding, and environmental impact. The proposal aims for a mix of market-rate and affordable housing, with a public hearing scheduled for November 13. Community response remains divided, highlighting ongoing debates about the future of the property.
Charleston, South Carolina – The Charleston County Planning Commission has approved a new rezoning application for Storybook Farm on Johns Island, allowing for up to 100 townhomes to be built on the property. This decision came despite a recommendation for disapproval from Charleston County staff, who reiterated their concerns from a previously withdrawn application.
The property, currently a family-owned 10.86-acre horse farm, is zoned for Low-Density Residential use. An initial rezoning request was submitted in April 2025 but was unanimously disapproved and subsequently withdrawn. The original plan sought a Planned Development zoning that would have permitted about 147 condominiums at a density of 14 homes per acre. The new application, submitted by developer Tony Berry from TBC Land Development, proposes a shift to Urban Development zoning, which would allow for a density of up to 16 homes per acre.
Berry’s revised proposal includes a maximum of 100 townhomes, with plans detailing 85 units to be sold at market rate and 15 units deed-restricted for affordability. These townhomes are designed to be two- and three-story structures, with the affordable units marked for those earning up to 120% of the area’s median income.
While the Planning Commission voted narrowly (5-4) to move the application forward, residents’ feedback highlights a divided opinion. As of October 10, 58 online comments were submitted in opposition to the project, compared to 34 in support. Concerns stem from potential increases in traffic, flooding risks, and the preservation of existing natural surroundings, especially given existing infrastructure issues.
Support for the project also exists among some locals, particularly those from the nearby Red Top community, who have indicated a willingness to collaborate with developers if their concerns regarding traffic and environmental impact are adequately addressed. However, the Preservation Society of Charleston maintains opposition to the project, citing concerns over insufficient maintenance requirements should ownership of the properties change in the future.
An engineering study conducted on the project stated that Bees Ferry Road would not experience significant service level changes due to the proposed 100 units. A public hearing regarding the rezoning request is scheduled for November 13 at the Charleston County Council meeting, with further reviews planned for November 20. Three readings will be required for final approval.
Key Features of Storybook Farm Rezoning Proposal
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Zoning | Low-Density Residential |
| Proposed Zoning | Urban Development |
| Current Property Use | Horse Farm |
| Proposed Development | 100 Townhomes |
| Affordability Units | 15 Units deed-restricted |
| Market Rate Units | 85 Units |
| Public Hearing Date | November 13 |
| Further Review Dates | November 20 |
FAQ
What was the outcome of the Charleston County Planning Commission meeting regarding Storybook Farm?
The Charleston County Planning Commission has approved a new rezoning application for Storybook Farm on Johns Island.
What is the proposed project at Storybook Farm?
The new application seeks to rezone the farm to Urban Development, enabling up to 16 homes per acre, with a maximum of 100 townhomes proposed.
How many units will be deed-restricted for affordability?
The new developer, Tony Berry, has proposed 15 units to be deed-restricted for affordability.
When is the public hearing for the rezoning request?
The rezoning request is scheduled for a public hearing on November 13 at the Charleston County Council meeting.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- ABC News 4
- Wikipedia: Zoning
- Post and Courier
- Google Search: Charleston County rezoning
- Live 5 News
- Google Scholar: rezoning Charleston County
- Live 5 News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Urban Development
- GAB News Online
- Google News: Charleston townhomes
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
