Harnett County’s Compatibility Regulations

About the Program

Category: Planning (Best in Category)

Year: 2023

Harnett County, known for its rural character and proximity to the research triangle, comprises five different municipalities and large swaths of unincorporated area. The county has observed steady growth within the last ten years; much of this growth can be attributed to the continued growth of neighboring Wake, Johnston, Lee, Chatham, Moore, and Cumberland counties. Feeling the impacts of growth and wanting to protect the county’s rural character, encourage compatibility between existing land uses and new development, and provide for growth near infrastructure, Harnett County Development Services created a compatibility design concept for residential subdivisions in 2007. The compatibility development requirements comprise four key components: zoning districts, land use classes, minimum lot sizes, and open space requirements. In adhering to these requirements, developers preserve open space and buffers between existing development and rights of way, as well as incorporating amenities such as curbs & gutters, sidewalks, and street trees. The final result includes the developer getting a higher density project that ensures economic feasibility, citizens getting a sense of place in their neighborhood and receiving more cost-effective housing options, and environmental concerns associated with increased growth being properly addressed to promote a safer and healthier Harnett County for future generations.