Town of Hilton Head Island
Ward One Master Land Use Plan 1999

The purpose of the Ward One Master Land Use Plan is to develop land use strategies for the undeveloped Ward One area. Although its focus is on the future pattern and density of land uses and the related implications for economic development, property rights, and development regulations, additional components deal with issues of public services and facilities and housing.

Project Area

The Town of Hilton Head Island is comprised of six voting districts or wards. This Plan focuses on the area of Ward One, which includes most of the historic native islander neighborhoods. In some instances, the study area extends beyond the actual Ward One boundary in order to address land issues in a coordinated fashion.

Plan Summary

Land Use Element

Replacement of CMU (M-2) Zoning
The Ward One Plan proposes the elimination of CMU (M-2) zoning and its replacement with Low-Moderate Density Residential and Moderate-High Density Residential zones. The Low-Moderate Density Residential category provides for flexible "tiered" densities from four (4) to eight (8) dwelling units per acre, depending on certain performance criteria. The Moderate-High Density Residential category permits densities of up to 12 units per acre. Both categories provide for commercial uses which are compatible with residential communities. This approach responds directly to expressed neighborhood desires to

• Provide greater flexibility for residential use and density,
• Restrict commercial uses which are not desired in residential areas, and
• Encourage, through incentives, greater coordination among neighboring property owners to achieve more efficient development patterns.

Waterfront Mixed Use
Certain waterfront areas in Ward One are among the most scenic anywhere on Hilton Head Island. Most of these areas are appropriate for, and should accommodate, higher density residential uses as well as water-related uses such as marinas, restaurants, entertainment activities, compatible motels/inns, timeshares, and public spaces. Where appropriate, the Town should encourage and/or invest in the creation of waterfront boardwalks to link waterfront activities and public spaces.

Initiative Areas
Two "Initiative Areas" along Highway 278 are designated in this plan: at the island entrance in the Stoney neighborhood and mid-island in the Chaplin neighborhood. Investments by the Town in these areas will be targeted for revitalization that will enhance economic development opportunities, while improving community character and facilitating safe, efficient traffic circulation.

Regulatory Modifications
The Ward One Plan recognizes that some existing development requirements may be difficult to meet for some small or poorly configured Ward One properties. These include setbacks and access drive right of way dimensions. Specific recommendations are made to lessen the restrictions on certain churches, particularly those in the Airport Hazard Overlay zoning district and the Light Industrial zoning district near the Hilton Head Island Airport. Similarly, recommendations are made to recognize the hardships imposed by the configuration of some heirs property, and to waive or relax such standards where there is no threat to public health or safety.