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York County adopts zoning rules for inpatient substance-abuse recovery centers, requiring special-use permits and DBHDS licensure
Summary
The Board adopted ordinance 26-14 to define and require special-use permitting, DBHDS licensure, and 24/7 on-site care for inpatient substance-abuse recovery treatment centers; the measure passed unanimously after staff explained standards and parking/impact requirements.
York County supervisors on June 16 adopted ordinance 26-14 to add a new definition and permitting framework for inpatient substance-abuse recovery treatment centers.
Planning staff presented the amendment and recommended the board adopt the ordinance so these facilities would be permitted by special-use permit in limited business, general business and economic opportunity zoning districts. Staff told the board the proposed definition would distinguish these facilities — described as state-licensed 24-hour residential centers providing detoxification, counseling and clinical treatment with overnight stays — from other medical care facilities and require additional performance standards, including proof of licensure and 24/7 on-site care.
"This use is proposed to be added to the table of land uses... and would differentiate them from other medical care facilities," planning staff said, noting the proposed parking standard at one space per two patient beds plus allowances for staff and loading spaces. Staff also explained that proof of licensure would be required during annual inspections rather than prior to an SUP to avoid blocking legitimate applicants who seek zoning approval before state licensure.
Supervisors asked whether a recovery center could be established as part of an existing hospital and whether the SUP requirement would apply in conversions. Staff said accessory wings of hospitals could be treated as part of the principal medical use but that a standalone recovery center would come before the board by SUP so the county and public could review traffic, parking and neighborhood impacts.
The planning commission had recommended approval (vote 6–0) prior to the board meeting. The board voted to adopt ordinance 26-14 as presented; roll call was unanimous.
The ordinance adds performance standards intended to protect residential areas (setbacks, screening, traffic impact analysis and limits on lighting and noise) and requires applicants to submit hazardous-materials and stormwater plans as applicable. The county will process SUP applications for proposals under the new definition and monitor compliance through zoning and code enforcement.
