Charlotte’s New Zoning Code, Set to Launch in June, Faces Tough Tests

The city of Charlotte is all set to launch its new zoning code in June, culminating a process that included the adoption of a new Unified Development ordinance in 2022 and a new comprehensive plan in 2021.

An article by Julia Kauffman for WCNC Charlotte presents the news in relation to ongoing development controversies around the city, presenting  the arguments of local homeowners that large developments are moving forward despite not fitting the goals of the Charlotte 2040 Comprehensive Plan.

For example, Kaufman mentions a total of 29 rezoning petitions under consideration, “including plans for thousands of apartments near Interstate 485.”

“The massive plan for housing, commercial space, and a school is not consistent with the city's 2040 Plan for that area, but city planners are still recommending city council approve it,” writes Kaufman.

“Land right outside of Mitchell's neighborhood on Mallard Creek Road is zoned for single-family houses. A developer has submitted a rezoning petition to change to build 186 townhomes on the property despite pushback from neighbors,” adds Kaufman. “When Charlotte’s UDO takes effect in June, houses, duplexes, and triplexes could be built on the land. Townhomes would not be allowed unless the land is rezoned.”

The 2040 Plan allows new density as the quickly growing city searches for solutions to rapidly rising housing prices. The UDO seems to be where the rubber is hitting the road with some members of the public. ““We understand the growth, we understand the need for density, but it's unchecked,” says homeowner Reverend Jordan Boyd, as quoted in the article. 

The Charlotte UDO is online and available for independent review and assessment. Kaufman did not solicit any comments from members of the city’s planning staff.