The Unified Development Ordinance combines and integrates the primary land use ordinances for Gastonia into one document, specifically the Zoning and Subdivision ordinances. Adopted in October 2009, with an effective date in November 2009, the UDO addresses general development requirements including the land use and zoning of property, design of commercial buildings, parking and circulation design, landscaping and open space requirements, signage, subdivision and residential development design, and construction around flood plains.
The collaborative process that created the UDO was recognized by the American Planning Association as an excellent example of inclusive planning at their annual awards ceremony in New Orleans, LA in April 2010. The UDO was a joint effort with Gaston County and Gaston County municipalities, with heavy involvement by the development community and Gaston County Schools, and technical assistance provided by the Centralina Council of Governments.
The primary goals of the UDO are to:
The collaborative process that created the UDO was recognized by the American Planning Association as an excellent example of inclusive planning at their annual awards ceremony in New Orleans, LA in April 2010. The UDO was a joint effort with Gaston County and Gaston County municipalities, with heavy involvement by the development community and Gaston County Schools, and technical assistance provided by the Centralina Council of Governments.
The primary goals of the UDO are to:
- Streamline the development review process.
- Make the development process more understandable and “user-friendly”.
- Promote quality, uniformity, and consistency in development standards throughout the County.
Additional Resources:
