Planning Commission approves new zoning ordinance with reduced density in Calvert County

Calvert County's Board of County Commissioners held a pivotal public hearing on February 18, 2025, focusing on the proposed updates to the county's zoning ordinance, a significant step in aligning local regulations with the recently updated comprehensive plan. This comprehensive review, the first since 2006, aims to streamline zoning regulations and address ongoing issues with vague interpretations.

The process began with the release of a draft zoning ordinance in May 2023, followed by extensive public engagement, including presentations and forums. Feedback from these sessions led to revisions, culminating in an updated draft presented in November 2024. The Planning Commission has since recommended approval of the draft with specific conditions, including maintaining certain zoning classifications and revising industrial areas.

One of the most notable changes proposed is a substantial reduction in density potential for areas previously zoned as Rural Community District (RCD) within a one-mile radius of town centers. Under the new draft, the density would drop from one lot per acre to one lot per five acres, representing an 80% reduction. This shift is expected to significantly impact future development in the county, particularly in the town centers of Prince Frederick, Lusby, and Solomons.

The commissioners emphasized the importance of these updates in creating a more efficient and user-friendly zoning ordinance. As the county moves forward, the implications of these changes will be closely monitored, with further discussions anticipated in upcoming meetings. The outcome of this zoning ordinance update could reshape the landscape of Calvert County for years to come.