Kiawah Island’s planning and zoning functions are handled by the Town of Kiawah Planning Department, the Kiawah Island Planning Commission and the Kiawah Island Board of Zoning Appeals.
The Town’s Land Use Planning and Zoning Ordinances, Article 12, can be found here. Their technical services include but are not limited to processing applications for zoning permits, subdivision of land, re-zonings, planned developments, variance requests, special exception requests, site plan review, zoning & land Development Regulations Ordinance text amendments, Comprehensive Plan amendments and appeals of administrative decisions. Access the Town of Kiawah Island Comprehensive Plan (2015) here.
In addition, the department coordinates with Police, Fire and Emergency Services departments to assure accuracy, consistency, and agreement of addresses, street names and any newly annexed properties for use by the 9-1-1 emergency system. The Planning Department administers the Town’s Comprehensive Plan and key Development Plans with Kiawah Partners and the Kiawah Island Golf Resort.
View Zoning Map* Prior to any development project, please verify official zoning with the Planning Department.
Have questions about a planning and zoning process or application?
Check out the process flowcharts below:
- Site Plan Review
- Board of Zoning Appeals
- Subdivision Plat Review
- Zoning Text, Zoning Map and Comprehensive Plan Amendments
Annexation into the Town of Kiawah Island
Annexation is a request by a private property owner or owners or government entity to incorporate their property into the service area and jurisdiction of the Town of Kiawah Island. The Town Council of Kiawah Island is responsible for approving all applications for proposed annexations. The Town Council will execute these responsibilities by objectively weighing all relevant factors and making an informed decision on each proposed application for annexation. The policy and procedures for annexation are outlined in the Town’s Annexation Policy Plan and Procedures Manual.
Town’s Annexation Policy Plan and Procedures Manual