Clemson council seeks clearer townhouse definition after court ruling

Clemson — Councilors on Feb. 2 discussed proposed changes to the city's rental housing ordinance that would tighten the legal definition of "townhouse" after a recent court ruling prompted uncertainty.

Jacob introduced the amendment as a follow-up to litigation in which the judge's interpretation left room for different readings of what constitutes a townhouse. Jacob said the proposed language replaces references to national building-code terminology with layman's terms to make it "very black and white" and to remove "wiggle room" about whether attached units are treated as single-family dwellings under city rules.

Councilors and staff explained the practical reason for the change: building-code definitions can trigger different sets of construction and fire-safety standards. One councilor noted that under current code the label "single family" versus "townhouse" determines whether a property follows the International Residential Code or the International Building Code, which affects sprinkler requirements and fire separation standards.

No final vote was taken; the item was presented as a first reading/discussion so staff can refine language and return for formal consideration. Councilors emphasized the amendment aims to remove ambiguity identified by the court and to line up local ordinance language with the intended safety standards.

Why it matters: The definition will determine which construction and safety standards apply to certain attached residential developments, affecting developers, landlords and residents.

The council and staff indicated further review and possible editing before a subsequent reading and vote.