Charleston, South Carolina, September 10, 2025
News Summary
The Charleston County Planning Commission voted in favor of a zoning overlay district plan to protect the historically significant Ten Mile community from overdevelopment. The proposal, shaped by community input, introduces stricter guidelines for land use and building standards, and will be reviewed by the County Council on October 14, 2023. This initiative reflects the residents’ concerns over maintaining the community’s identity amid development pressures.
Charleston, South Carolina – The Charleston County Planning Commission voted 6-3 on Monday night to advance a zoning overlay district plan aimed at protecting the Ten Mile community from overdevelopment. The Charleston County Council is set to review the proposal during a public meeting on October 14, 2023.
The proposed zoning overlay intends to introduce stricter guidelines for land use, building sizes, density, and development standards, crucially impacting both businesses and residential neighborhoods in the area. This initiative reflects the growing concern among Ten Mile residents about the potential negative effects of unchecked development surrounding their historically significant community.
Project leader Pearl Ascue indicated that preserving the unique identity of established communities benefits both current residents and newcomers. The zoning overlay is the culmination of over two years of collaboration between residents of Ten Mile and county officials, showcasing the importance of community input in local governance.
The new zoning guidelines include requirements that any new homes must adhere to the existing architectural style of the area. Additionally, regulations would allow for larger accessory dwelling units and impose tighter traffic study requirements for any new developments. These measures are aimed at maintaining the character of the Ten Mile community while accommodating gradual growth.
Ten Mile is a historically Black community located near Awendaw. In recognition of its historical significance, the Charleston County Council designated it as a historic district in 2022. Earlier this year, a zoning change reduced residential density in parts of Ten Mile from four homes per acre to three, alongside the initiation of a two-year moratorium on large-scale residential development across all historic districts, including Ten Mile.
Feedback from community members has played a substantial role in shaping the proposed guidelines, leading to increased resident participation and emphasizing the need for protective measures against potential overdevelopment. One of the goals expressed by residents is to enhance housing density in specific areas, moving from one dwelling unit per three acres to one unit per acre within Ten Mile.
County Councilman Larry Kobrovsky stressed that the proposed zoning overlay acts as a safeguard against overdevelopment. Local resident Ed Pinckney has shown support for the zoning overlay, viewing it as essential to preserving the community’s lifestyle and character, which stakeholders consider critical in the face of ongoing development pressures.
Beyond the immediate approval of the zoning overlay, the Ten Mile community envisions additional long-term objectives. This includes plans for an area character appraisal and efforts to gain inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places, which would further enhance protections for the area. Residents are also interested in extending the existing moratorium on development to continue shielding historic districts from potential threats of subdivision and commercial encroachment.
Key Features of the Zoning Overlay Proposal
- Stricter guidelines for new housing and developments.
- Adherence to existing architectural styles.
- Increased density allowances in specific zones.
- Enhanced traffic study requirements for new projects.
- Two-year moratorium on large-scale residential developments within historic districts.
- Community-led initiatives focused on long-term preservation goals.
Conclusion
The future of the Ten Mile community hangs in the balance as the Charleston County Council prepares to review the zoning overlay proposal. The engagement of residents and their collective vision for preserving their heritage underscores the importance of community in shaping local governance.
FAQ Section
What is the purpose of the zoning overlay for Ten Mile?
The zoning overlay aims to establish bylaws that protect the Ten Mile community from overdevelopment, ensuring that new construction aligns with the area’s historical character and architectural style.
When will the Charleston County Council review the proposal?
The Charleston County Council is scheduled to review the zoning overlay proposal at a public meeting on October 14, 2023.
What changes will the overlay introduce?
The overlay includes stricter guidelines regarding land use, building sizes, and density, as well as requirements for homes to match the existing architectural style and larger accessory dwelling units.
How has community feedback influenced the proposal?
Community feedback has significantly shaped the guidelines to ensure broader participation and help reflect the interests of local residents regarding the future development of their neighborhood.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- ABC News 4
- Post and Courier
- Live 5 News
- The Daniel Island News
- Live 5 News Video
- Wikipedia: Zoning
- Google Search: Zoning Overlays
- Google Scholar: Zoning Regulations
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Zoning
- Google News: Ten Mile Community Zoning
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
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