Johnston County Planning Board to Review Draft Unified Development Ordinance on December 2

For Immediate Release:  November 20, 2025

 

Smithfield, N.C. - Johnston County Planning Board to Review Draft Unified Development Ordinance on December 2

Johnston County is rewriting its development rules, and here’s one chance to see them. The County Planning Board will hear a presentation on a draft Unified Development Ordinance during a special meeting on Tuesday, December 2. The meeting is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. in the auditorium of the Johnston County Agricultural Center, 2736 N.C. 210, Smithfield.

Broadly speaking, the draft ordinance aims to promote safe and orderly growth, keep development consistent with the County’s new comprehensive land-use plan, and ensure that public services, including water and sewer, can support new homes and businesses. The draft sets rules for all land use and development in areas under County planning control. It does not apply to Johnston’s towns or their planning jurisdictions.

The draft UDO lays out how developers can build homes and businesses, how property owners may divide their lands, and what steps developers must take before starting construction. Farms remain exempt from the UDO rules, except when they add non-farm uses. Under the draft, most development would require a land-use permit. Also, many projects would require a site plan. The exceptions would be single-family homes, duplexes, and small additions.

The draft updates and reorganizes the County’s traditional zoning districts. Residential districts range from low-density agricultural zones to more compact neighborhoods. Each district has clear limits on density, lot size, and building type. Mobile home parks have their own district and standards. Commercial districts range from neighborhood businesses to large shopping centers.

Johnstonians may view the proposed draft online and email their comments to planning@johnstonnc.gov.