Planning

The Planning Department is responsible for current and long-range planning for the City of Gastonia. We help residents, property owners, and developers understand how land can be used, guide rezonings and design review through the public hearing process, and plan for the city’s future through Gastonia2050 and small area plans.

Our office is located in the Garland Municipal Business Center at 150 S. York Street.

What We Do
Zoning Services

Zoning staff answer questions about land use and handle zoning permits, occupancy permits, setbacks, sign permits, variances, and zoning complaints.

Rezoning & Public Hearings

Planning manages rezonings and the public hearings that go with them, including conditional rezonings, conditional use permits, variances, special exceptions to the flood hazard overlay, comprehensive plan amendments, and ordinance amendments. Most higher-density residential projects require a rezoning.

Long-Range & Small Area Planning

Planning leads the City’s comprehensive plan, Gastonia2050, along with small area plans and design work that guide how Gastonia grows.

Historic Districts & Design Review

Planning coordinates Gastonia’s local historic districts and reviews projects in design districts and special corridor districts.

Floodplain Administration

Planning administers the City’s floodplain regulations. Any fill within the FEMA regulatory floodplain or floodway requires City Council approval.

GIS & Mapping

Planning provides GIS mapping and analysis and concept visualization for other City departments, and maintains the City’s zoning map.

Contact Information

Planning Department
Garland Municipal Business Center
150 S. York Street, Gastonia, NC 28052
(PO Box 1748, Gastonia, NC 28053-1748)
Phone: 704-854-6652
planning@gastonianc.gov