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City staff to propose zoning amendment to resolve NAICS-code conflicts with permitted uses
Summary
Staff previewed an amendment to Section 6-16 of the West Columbia zoning ordinance to clarify how the city will handle discrepancies between NAICS business classifications and the city's permitted zoning uses, and described the public process and appeals path.
City staff told the West Columbia City Council on Oct. 7 that they will draft an amendment to Section 6-16 of the zoning ordinance to clarify how the city will handle conflicts between NAICS business classifications and the city’s permitted uses.
Staff said the NAICS (North American Industry Classification System) codes used for business licensing do not always align with zoning permitted uses. The proposed amendment would authorize the zoning administrator to make a recommendation to the city administrator, and give the city administrator authority to make determinations when discrepancies arise. The staff presentation said the change will provide consistent interpretation and allow businesses to open without waiting months for a zoning fix.
Why it matters: NAICS-code mismatches have created “unintended consequences,” according to staff, preventing some businesses from operating immediately after applying for a license. The amendment is intended to provide an administrative pathway for common-sense resolutions so that appropriate businesses can begin operations while preserving the public hearing and review process for zoning changes.
Process and appeals: Staff explained the ordinance change would go to the planning commission for public hearing and then back to council for two readings; the staff estimated the adoption process could take roughly 45 to 90 days. If an administrative determination is appealed, the appeal would be heard by the zoning board, and subsequent appeals from the zoning board could go to circuit court.
Staff comment: A staff member said, “This ensures consistent interpretation and application of the city's zoning ordinance.” Councilmembers asked about the appeals path; staff confirmed the zoning board and then circuit court as the appeal route.
Ending: Staff said the city will draft the amendment and return it to the planning commission and council for formal consideration; the transcript records no immediate council vote on policy during the meeting.
