Burke County weighs temporary-dwelling ordinance to ease post-disaster housing

Burke County planning staff presented a proposed zoning text amendment (ZTA 2024-03) on Jan. 7, 2025, to permit temporary dwellings—such as RVs, campers or FEMA-provided units—on the same parcel while a primary residence is being repaired or a new home is constructed.

Alan Glines, Planning Director and Deputy County Manager, told the board the draft ordinance ties a temporary-dwelling zoning permit to an active building permit, allows only one temporary unit per parcel, and sets the initial permit term at up to 18 months. Permits could be renewed in six-month increments with Community Development approval upon proof of “good faith progress,” such as scheduled inspections. The draft requires compliance with applicable local, state and federal laws for connections to power, water and septic systems and states that a certificate of occupancy for the permanent dwelling will not be issued until the temporary unit is disconnected from water and septic systems; a 30-day extension may be granted at the building inspector’s discretion.

Chairman Jeffrey C. Brittain and Commissioner Brian Barrier pressed staff on septic and permitting logistics for sites where environmental damage prevents immediate placement of a temporary unit. Glines said septic considerations are integrated into the building-permit process and noted that permitting a temporary unit on a neighboring parcel presents procedural challenges. Commissioner Mike Stroud asked whether the amendment is intended as a steppingstone to longer-term policy; Glines replied the measure is intended to provide a temporary solution until repairs or rebuilding are complete.

The Planning Board reviewed the draft on Dec. 5, 2024, and recommended approval (6–0). The commissioners moved the item without objection to the Jan. 21, 2025 regular meeting for public hearing and final action.