Oconee planning commission moves to cut language, tighten drainage rules and lower private‑drive width amid sharp public debate

OCONEE COUNTY — The Oconee County Planning Commission on April 21 approved several changes to county rules for private roads and drives, drawing dozens of public speakers who warned the moves could reduce safety and benefit developers.

The commission voted to remove the word “dwellings” from the private‑drive standard in chapter 26 of the county code, approved added language requiring adequate drainage for private drives, and changed the minimum right‑of‑way for private drives from 50 feet to 20 feet. Commissioners then paused broader revisions and asked county staff to invite the South Carolina Department of Transportation to the next meeting for technical input.

The changes came after more than two hours of public comment and a lengthy staff and commissioner discussion that touched on local case law, Board of Zoning Appeals variances, and complaints about how the amendments were introduced. Supporters said the revisions clarify conflicting language between chapter 26 (roads and bridges) and chapter 32 (development standards) and give rural landowners more flexibility. Opponents said the proposals would endanger emergency access and utility installation and questioned the timing and motivations behind the effort.

"Private property is private, period," said Tom Markovich, a resident who spoke during the public comment period, arguing against treating private roads like public streets. In contrast, several speakers, including Serena Brown Richardson, presented a petition of hundreds of signatures…