Moore County planning board backs allowing rebuilding of damaged nonconforming buildings with up to 15% expansion

The Moore County Planning Board voted unanimously to recommend that the Moore County Board of Commissioners amend the county Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) to allow damaged nonconforming structures to be reconstructed and to permit minor expansions up to 15% so long as the addition does not extend into a setback.

Deborah, a county planning department staff member, told the board the proposal responds to at least one local business that experienced a fire and to language removed from the UDO when it was revised in February 2022. "This item is before you, and I know it's a special meeting, but, there is someone that had experienced a fire at their business," Deborah said, explaining the change would restore the county's prior approach while adding a 15% expansion cap. She summarized the proposed language: "minor expansions are allowed as long…