The Greensboro Land Development Ordinance (LDO), adopted in 2010 and incorporating form-based components, governs zoning districts, subdivision standards, design overlays, and infrastructure requirements for development inside the city limits and extraterritorial jurisdiction.
The LDO consolidates zoning, subdivision, and development review procedures into a single document. It uses traditional Euclidean districts alongside form-based overlays that emphasize building placement, frontage type, and street design rather than only use separation. Special districts include Downtown, North Elm Street, and several Activity Centers. The Planning and Zoning Commission and the Zoning Commission hear cases such as rezoning, variances, and special use permits. Comprehensive Plan amendments must precede most map changes. Recent updates respond to NC HB 765 and Greensboro Connect housing recommendations.
Operating a use not permitted in a zoning district, building without site-plan approval, or violating buffer or screening standards can trigger stop-work orders, daily civil penalties of up to five hundred dollars, and Superior Court injunctive enforcement.
Greensboro, NC
The Greensboro LDO offers density bonuses, parking reductions, and expedited review for developments that include affordable housing units, supporting the ho...
Greensboro, NC
Greensboro establishes building setback requirements through the Land Development Ordinance (Chapter 30). Setbacks vary by zoning district and include front,...
See how Greensboro's specific plans overview rules stack up against other locations.
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