The Unified Development Ordinance (City Zoning and Development Standards) is a land use regulation document in development by the City of Sumter that will implement the community vision for the City's built environment and incorporates modern best practices. It will address key concepts including Land Uses, Building Heights, Walkability, Building Frontages, Street Types, and other regulations to preserve and enhance quality of life in the City.
The current draft of the City of Sumter Unified Development Ordinance is available for public comment and feedback. Please use the links below to access the sections of the draft ordinance, as well as a tool showing current and proposed zoning changes that are part of the project:
Project Goals:
- Implement the City’s long-range vision.
- Align zoning and subdivision standards with the Sumter 2040 Comprehensive Plan.
- Update development & design standards.
- Refresh allowed uses, dimensional standards, site design, landscaping/buffers, parking, and signage so they reflect today’s needs.
- Make the code user-friendly.
- Create a clear, graphic-rich, easy-to-navigate ordinance for residents, businesses, and developers.
Modernize & clarify criteria. - Replace outdated provisions with objective, predictable standards that are straightforward to apply.
- Streamline processes.
- Match review steps to the level of decision, reduce unnecessary complexity, and clarify roles and timelines.
- Strengthen enforcement & consistency. Use measurable standards to reduce subjectivity and improve fairness and compliance.
You may also contact the Sumter Planning Department directly at [email protected].