Wilson County approves zoning changes to accessory-structure rules and adds controls for vape, smoke and hemp dispensaries

The Wilson County Board of Commissioners on Aug. 4 approved two amendments to the county Unified Development Ordinance that revise where accessory buildings can sit on a lot and add county rules for smoke and vape shops and hemp cannabis dispensaries.

Paolo, county development staff, told the board the first amendment, UDO 25-01, would remove a 5‑foot setback requirement for small accessory structures under 250 square feet and require accessory structures not to encroach within the 10‑foot side or rear setback; it also clarifies that maximum height is regulated elsewhere in the ordinance. The board approved that amendment as presented.

Paolo said the second amendment, UDO 25-02, adds definitions for smoke or vape shops and hemp cannabis dispensaries, makes those uses allowed only by special‑use permit in B‑1, M‑1 and M‑2 zoning, and adds operational and location restrictions intended to protect sensitive areas. On the proposed proximity restriction, Paolo said the county “did a a pretty good amount of research of other ordinances” and that the draft set a 2,000‑foot buffer from any property line of a school, daycare, public park or recreation facility, residentially zoned properties, places of worship and cemeteries.

Commissioner Hill moved to amend the draft to increase that separation distance from 2,000 to 2,500 feet and to add a limit of one guest‑resident per bedroom in boarding‑house definitions. The motion was seconded and the board voted to approve the UDO 25‑02 package with those exceptions.

During discussion commissioners asked staff to make clear that the county ordinance applies only to unincorporated Wilson County and not to municipalities with their own zoning. Paolo said enforcement would proceed through the usual complaint process and zoning‑inspections follow‑up if a violation is alleged. He told commissioners that some jurisdictions he reviewed had buffers ranging from about 1,500 up to 3,000 feet and that the proposed 2,500‑foot buffer aligned with several other local ordinances.

County staff said the amendments will be enforced for new businesses that seek permits; existing businesses were not the focus of the change. The board approved the amendments and the clerk will finalize ordinance language to reflect the board’s changes.