Richland County zoning board denies variance to cut parking for 300-unit apartment project

The Richland County Board of Zoning Appeals voted 4-1 to deny a variance request that would have reduced required off‑street parking for a proposed 300‑unit apartment complex at 2015 Blythewood Crossing Lane.

The vote came after county staff recommended denial, concluding the applicant had not shown the extraordinary and exceptional conditions required for a variance under the Richland County Land Development Code. Board members Lawson Hauser, Alderman, Johnson and Fulmer voted to deny; Member Reese voted no.

Staff summary and recommendation

Mister Price, the Richland County zoning administrator, told the board the parcel is about a 30.33‑acre undeveloped tract and that, under Table 26‑5.2(d)(1) of the Richland County Land Development Code, multifamily dwellings require two off‑street parking spaces per unit. "Based on this requirement, the proposed development will require 600 off‑street parking spaces," Price said, and staff recommended disapproval because the applicant had not met…