Greenville, NC Zoning Overlays & Bonuses: Density Bonus Law (2026)

Sec. 9-4-162, the master plan community (PUD-style) standards section of Greenville's zoning code, sets out residential density bonus provisions in subsection (J). A residential density bonus, rounded to the nearest whole number and not to exceed a total of 200%, or eight units per gross acre, over the allowable base density set in Sec. 9-4-162(C), may be approved by the Board of Adjustment when a developer meets the listed bonus standards. Applicants must show compliance detail on the land use plan sufficient for the Board of Adjustment to evaluate the density bonus request, per the preliminary plat-site plan requirements cross-referenced in Sec.

9-4-167(C). No matter which bonus category a project qualifies for, the code caps total residential density in any master plan community at 12 dwelling units per gross acre, so the bonus cannot be stacked past that ceiling. Two specific bonus paths are listed: first, increasing the required common open space area by 20 or more percentage points above the base requirement (that is, to 45% or more of the site) earns a 50% density bonus, equal to two additional units per gross acre, above the master plan community's base density.

Second, providing a constructed system of bike paths and pedestrian greenways that form a logical, safe and convenient connection to all dwelling units, interior project facilities, or principal off-site destinations qualifies a project for a density bonus, with those facilities required to be designed and built consistent with the city's Greenway Master Plan. Master plan communities under 75 gross acres or fewer than 250 dwelling units are limited to residential uses only, which is the base against which these bonuses apply, and any expansion of an existing master plan community must meet or exceed the same area and density standards as a new application.