Planning Commission backs most zoning text amendments; declines one and leaves another without action

The Calvert County Planning Commission considered a package of zoning text amendments on Aug. 20, 2025 (TA 25-02 through TA 25-13) that would revise definitions, permitted uses, and critical-area provisions in the county zoning ordinance. After staff presentations and public comment, the commission recommended adoption of most amendments, voted that TA 25-03 is not consistent with the comprehensive plan, and took no formal action on TA 25-04.

Staff said no written comments were received in advance on the package. The package followed a zoning ordinance rewrite that took effect March 1, 2025; several amendments are housekeeping changes to align the ordinance with other county regulations, state requirements, or pending revisions to agricultural preservation rules and regulations. Staff also presented a separate draft of updated agricultural preservation rules and regulations for informational purposes later in the meeting.

Key outcomes at the hearing:

- TA 25-02 (definition of retaining wall): Commission recommended adoption unanimously. The amendment clarifies that walls under 36 inches are not retaining walls and therefore are not subject to retaining-wall structural requirements.

- TA 25-03 (move provisions into Agricultural Preservation rules/regulations; APD-related provisions): The commission voted to find TA 25-03 not consistent with the comprehensive plan…