In The News

WEST CHESTER UPDATES ZONING RESOLUTION & LAND USE PLAN

April 16, 2025
West Chester Community Development Department

The West Chester Township Community Development team has been working diligently for the last few years on a major update to the community’s Zoning Resolution and Comprehensive Land Use Plan. West Chester originally adopted zoning in 1989, and the township has made many small updates in the years since.

 

The updated Zoning Resolution was reorganized to be more user-friendly, incorporating restructured tables and illustrations. Additionally, the design and development standards were aligned with the township’s land use plan, branding was refreshed, and the language was modernized. The updated resolution now clearly defines uses, making it searchable and including hyperlinks to direct customers to the exact information they need. The revised plan is much easier to navigate and is available online 24/7 to accommodate customers in every time zone.

 

As the township grows, the demand for different types of land use shifts, requiring zoning adjustments to accommodate new development patterns and the constantly changing environment. New industries and technologies have emerged, necessitating zoning updates to allow for their development. These changes impact transportation, infrastructure, land use, economic shifts, and changing demographics—prompting the township to adapt to evolving circumstances.

 

According to West Chester Community Development Director Katy Kanelopoulos, “A lot has changed since the zoning resolution was last updated in 2018. Issues that were not prevalent then, such as food trucks or Airbnb/VRBOs, have now become significant. The Zoning Resolution and Land Use Plan needed to be updated to reflect today’s activities.” Adjustments were made to business districts to account for their proximity to residential developments, considering factors such as lighting and traffic noise. The need to increase landscape buffers and green space between business and residential districts was also addressed. Additionally, the connectivity plan was updated, requiring new developments in specific areas to create paths and install sidewalks.

 

“The Zoning Resolution was also updated to address social changes,” added Property Advisor Bryan Hellard. He explained, “For example, some short-term rentals were creating safety issues, such as theft incidents that required police intervention. Recreational marijuana was defined in the resolution, however it is not permitted anywhere at this time.”

 

The Comprehensive Land Use Plan, which was also updated, serves as a high-level, long-term framework that guides community growth and change. It acts as a blueprint for staff and decision-makers to evaluate development proposals and achieve the community’s goals. Updates to the Land Use Plan include aligning the vision, terminology, and goals with the Zoning Resolution to modernize the plan. The Township’s first Comprehensive Land Use Plan was adopted in 2004, with revisions in 2009, 2010, and 2013.

 

“These updates ensure that our community remains vibrant and adaptable as it grows. We are committed to creating a balanced, well-planned environment that considers both the evolving needs of businesses and the well-being of our residents. By modernizing our Zoning and Land Use Plans, we are setting a strong foundation for sustainable development in West Chester for years to come,” said Township Planner, Tim Dawson.

 

The Property Maintenance Code, a set of regulations that establish minimum standards for the upkeep, safety, and habitability of buildings and structures, has also been updated. The Property Maintenance Code establishes minimum requirements and standards for premises, structures, equipment, and facilities regarding light, ventilation, space, heating, sanitation, protection from the elements, life safety, and sanitary conditions. This code plays a crucial role in keeping West Chester a safe and pleasant place to live and work, while also maintaining property values.

 

The Community Development Department is available to discuss the updated documents and provide insight into the changes that have been made. For more information, contact Community Development Director Katy Kanelopoulos at (513) 777-4214 or kkanelopoulos@westchesteroh.org.