Zoning Overlays & Bonuses in Charleston, SC (2026)
3 verified zoning overlays & bonuses rules for Charleston, South Carolina, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Specific Plans Overview
Charleston uses form-based zoning in its historic core and certain new neighborhoods, regulating building form, frontage, and street relationship rather than traditional use-based density and setback rules.
Charleston Form-Based Code in Historic Core
Some RestrictionsCoastal Zone Permits
Charleston sits entirely within South Carolina's coastal zone, requiring SC DHEC-OCRM coordination for development affecting tidal critical areas, beaches, dunes, and certain estuarine waters.
Coastal Zone Permits in Charleston
Heavy RestrictionsDowntown Design Guide
Charleston's Board of Architectural Review, established 1931 as the first US municipal historic preservation body, reviews exterior changes citywide in historic districts using strict design guidelines.
Charleston Historic District Design Review
Heavy RestrictionsLooking for Charleston County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Charleston city rules.
Zoning Overlays & Bonuses in Charleston County →