Walton County DRB tables Chapter 6 land‑development changes citing Senate Bill 1180 uncertainty

Walton County planning staff and the Development Review Board voted Sept. 4 to table proposed amendments to Chapter 6 of the county land‑development code until state guidance clarifies the impact of Senate Bill 1180.

Steven Schoen of the county planning department told the board the county’s ability to adopt changes that might be perceived as "burdensome" is constrained by SB 1180. "We're in a position where our hands are tied, as it relates to changes to land development code that can be perceived as burdensome," Schoen said. Staff recommended tabling the item until the Legislature or state guidance narrows what is considered "burdensome."

Schoen said staff could later bring forward clarifying or non‑substantive edits that do not change standards, but the substantive Chapter 6 amendments should be paused. Tim Brown of Planning and Development confirmed staff’s recommendation and the board voted to follow it. A board member moved to table and the motion carried with all in favor.

Why it matters: planners said SB 1180 is intended to preserve buildable rights after disasters but has language that county staff and the county attorney say could expose Walton County to liability if the commission were to adopt certain local ordinances before the state clarifies the law.

What’s next: staff will await clearer direction on SB 1180 or prepare strictly clarifying edits that do not change standards and will re‑advertise the Chapter 6 item if and when they can proceed.