Zoning Code Comprehensive Update

The Office of Planning and Zoning has conducted a comprehensive review of the County's Zoning Ordinance (Article 18 of the County Code) and is proposing a number of amendments covering a wide range of topics. In general, the purpose of these amendments is to update outdated terminology or provisions, add or revise allowed uses, address inconsistencies, and improve the overall applicability of the zoning ordinance. The legislation will be introduced on July 20, 2026 and will be heard at the County Council hearings in September and October.

Proposed Amendments

The proposed amendments are described in the following general categories:

Category	Description
I	Amends an existing definition to clarify how the term is used or to modernize it.
II	Adds a new definition for an existing term that is not defined.
III	Adds a new allowed use, deletes an allowed use, or amends the title of the use and/or related conditions.
IV	Clarifies how a provision is currently interpreted or applied or relocates a provision to another code section.
V	Reflects a change in how a provision will be interpreted or applied.
VI	Corrections for consistency with other County or State laws.
VII	Describes the purpose and intent of a zoning district.
VIII	Adds a new zoning provision.
IX	Deletes an existing zoning provision.

Proposed Amendments to Article 18

The public review period is now closed. The Final Draft Article 18 Update List of Amendments and Summary Report can be accessed here.

Article 18 Update List of Amendments - Final Draft Version - December 2025

Article 18 Update Legislation Summary Report - December 2025