Columbus County approves amended cell‑tower ordinance; commissioners ask for higher tower permit fees to be reworked

The Columbus County Board of Commissioners on Nov. 3 approved an amended wireless communications ordinance that defines wireless facilities, requires setbacks equal to 100% of tower height from lot lines, and caps tower height at 350 feet, while allowing the Board of Adjustment to reduce setbacks with a licensed engineer's certification.

Planning director Kelsey Hammonds read the draft ordinance into the record and told the board the planning board recommended adding the public right of way to the setback language. Hammonds said the draft defines a wireless communication facility and a wireless telecommunication tower and noted that "a 100% tower height setback from all lot lines from any principal building" is proposed to protect surrounding properties. Hammonds said most towers in the county "fall right around 300 feet" and that a 350‑foot limit allows wiggle room for emergency communications needs.

Commissioners and members of the public raised questions about how much land a tower lease could encumber. One participant warned that a 100‑foot tower could require a 100‑foot fall area on both sides of the site and urged permitting staff to ensure landowners understand that lease and easement implications before signing. Planning staff also confirmed the Board of Adjustment may approve setback reductions as part of a special‑use permit if a licensed professional engineer certifies the fall area is adequate.

The board voted to adopt the amended ordinance after a motion by Commissioner Floyd and a second by Commissioner Smith.

Separately, the board discussed inspection and permit fees for towers. Building inspections director Daryl Jackson said staff had "done some surveys" and found inspection fees were not keeping pace with the number of inspections required; he cited a proposal to raise a $500 fee by $300 (to $800) to close the gap. Several commissioners said the county should consider higher one‑time permit fees — one suggested $2,500 — arguing siting fees for a permanent tower are a unique revenue opportunity. The board moved to have staff return with revised recommended fee figures and analysis at the Dec. 1 meeting.

The ordinance as approved requires county permitting and clarifies definitions and safety measures; the fee issue was deferred so the board can consider raising permit and inspection fees for towers with specific recommendations.

What happens next: staff will prepare recommended permit/inspection fee revisions for review on Dec. 1 and will publish the adopted ordinance language per county procedures.