Board adopts zoning text amendment requiring special-use permits for gas stations and car washes

Cherokee County commissioners unanimously approved June 17 a zoning text amendment that defines gasoline stations, car washes and hand-wash services and requires special-use permits with supplemental use conditions for car washes (excluding small hand-wash services) and gasoline/service stations in specified zoning districts.

Staff explained the amendment responds to a recent moratorium and increased development in District 4; the county has seen a rapid growth in gas stations and car washes, particularly along major corridors. The amendment adds definitions, clarifies that fuel pump canopies are to meet primary building setbacks and architectural integration requirements, and places ancillary equipment (vending/ice/propane/air pumps/vacuum stations) under setback and color palette controls with planning director review when necessary. The board and staff said truck stops and marine service stations are included as related uses.

Under the change, proposed gas stations and car washes (except small hand-wash services) in the general commercial district will require a special-use permit so the county can review site layout, traffic, noise, environmental and architectural impacts. Staff said the prior approach allowed some of these uses to locate with only business licensing; the ordinance change restores zoning review.

Commissioner Ragsdale moved to adopt the amendment; Commissioner Carter seconded. The board voted unanimously to adopt the text amendment.

Ending: The 90-day moratorium that prompted the review was to expire June 30; the ordinance amendment will guide review of new gas station and car-wash proposals and require site-specific special-use permitting.