23.

CITY COUNCIL
September 20, 2022 at 4:00pm
City Hall, 3rd floor Council Chambers, 1737 Main Street, Columbia, SC 29201

AMENDMENTS TO THE UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE

Off-Street Parking Standards

Proposal: Request to amend Table 17-5.2 (D)(1), Minimum Number of Off-Street Parking Spaces,
to add MU-1, MU-2, NAC, CAC, and RAC to “no minimum” column; eliminate parking
requirements for buildings of 7,500 sq ft or less citywide; and reduce requirements for
certain warehouse and manufacturing uses as well as private dorms

Applicants: Krista Hampton, Director of Planning & Development Services; Members of Columbia
City Council

Staff Recommendation: Approval

PC Recommendation: 07/14/2022; Approval (6-1) proposing to City Council to include .5 spaces per bed and
for private and public dorms

ZPH, 1st Reading: 09/20/2022; Pending

2nd Reading: 10/04/2022; Pending

DETAIL

The Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) was adopted by City Council on August 20, 2019 and took effect on
August 30, 2021. Since the effective date, Council has adopted a number of amendments. Some have been
corrections and others have been to improve upon new or modified provisions. This amendment falls into the
latter. Staff and members of Columbia City Council are proposing an amendment to eliminate minimum off-
street parking requirements for certain mixed-use districts and in all districts for non-residential uses in buildings
of 7,500 sq. ft. or less.

The requested amendments are as follows:

- Table 17-5.2 (D)(1)
o Add MU-1, MU-2, NAC, CAC, and RAC to “no minimum” column
o Reduce requirements for certain warehouse and manufacturing uses
o Add to the “Notes” section that non-residential uses occupying new or existing structures of
7,500 square feet or less are exempt from a minimum parking requirement

STAFF RECOMMENDATION

Many urban areas across the country are taking steps to reduce off-street parking requirements, as communities
prefer a more pedestrian-oriented environment and alternatives to individual auto use increase. Reducing required
parking provides several benefits. Fewer parking spaces can decrease the amount of impervious surfaces, which in

Packet Pg. 436

 23.a

turn reduces stormwater runoff and lessens the impact of urban heat islands. As less individual parking is created,
other forms of transportation are encouraged and a more walkable, pedestrian-friendly, urban core and corridors
develop. Businesses benefit from increased pedestrian activity, while still being able to provide parking if needed.
An important takeaway is that this amendment does not prohibit the provision of parking.

CURRENT REGULATIONS
Prior to the adoption of the UDO, Columbia did not have minimum parking requirements in the Central Business
District for over forty years. The UDO further expanded this area to the Vista and Innovista. In addition to these
exemptions, there previously was and remains a provision that, city-wide, uses such as retail and some service
uses utilizing existing building are not required to provide parking beyond what exists, essentially exempting
them from parking requirements. In the Five Points district, uses other than restaurants occupying buildings less
than 4,000 square feet are not required to provide parking. Nominal reductions in parking requirements are
provided in the urban design districts.

In other areas, minimum parking requirements vary by use with residential based on the unit and commercial
generally based on square footage.

IMPACTS
Mandated parking minimums can impose harmful effects that are in conflict with other goals articulated in the
Comprehensive Plan and other policies of the City.

HOUSING COSTS: Mandated off-street parking increases the cost of housing without necessarily benefitting the
residents. A surface lot space costs at least $5,000 and a space in a structure can cost a minimum of $25,000. The
cost of the space is the same regardless of whether the unit is small or large or affordable or luxury. These costs
are folded into the cost of the housing whether the occupant drives or not. Since this particular change affects
commercial districts, the impact will largely be in multi-family or condominium developments where there is a
great need for affordability.

BUSINESS COSTS: The impacts of minimum parking requirements are felt the most by small businesses who
are unable to absorb the cost of excess parking. For larger developments, the costs are added to the goods or
services produced.

DEVELOPMENT PATTERNS: Mandated parking minimums result in less compact development, which
contributes to urban sprawl. This is especially true of surface lots. These lots are not only unproductive as a land
use; they decrease the development potential of the City, limit space for new businesses and housing, and provide
little in the way of revenue for City services. They make the City less walkable, degrade the fabric of the street,
and lead to a less inviting environment for pedestrians and bicyclists. The average parking space requires a
minimum of 300 square feet when including maneuvering and aisle space. Minimum requirements often will
result in a parking lot that exceeds the footprint of the building.

ENVIRONMENTAL: Mandated parking, which is in most cases low cost or free for the driver induces vehicle
trips, which increases emissions and associated air pollution. Large areas of paved parking increases stormwater
runoff and intensifies heat islands.

ON-STREET PARKING: Eliminating parking minimums may result in an increased demand for public, on-street
parking that is provided by the City. This demand can be managed through appropriately pricing and managing
on-street parking in high-demand locations. This includes the option to implement residential parking districts .

Staff recommends City Council approve the request with the change recommended by Planning Commission.

ZPH 9/20/22 Text Amendment – Off-Street Parking Standards 2

Packet Pg. 437
 23.a
Article 5: Development Standards
Sec. 17-5.2. Off-Street Parking, Bicycle Parking, and Loading
(d) Off-Street Parking Space Standards

Figure 17-5.2(c)(11)b: Examples of Pedestrian Pathways

(9) Completion
All off-street parking and loading areas shall be completed prior to the issuance
of a certificate of occupancy for the development they serve. In the case of
phased development, off-street parking and loading areas may only be provided
for the phase being developed.

(d) Off-Street Parking Space Standards

(1) Minimum Number of Off-Street Parking Spaces
Except as otherwise provided for mixed-use developments (see Sec. 17-5.2(d)(3))
or for existing conditions (see Sec. 17-5.2(d)(4)), new development or a change in
use or expansion shall provide the minimum number of off-street parking spaces
in accordance with Table 17-5.2(d)(1): Minimum Number of Off-Street Parking
Spaces, based on the principal use(s) involved and the extent of development.
Interpretation of the off-street parking space standards for principal uses with
variable parking demands or unlisted principal uses shall be in accordance with
Sec. 17-5.2(d)(2), Unlisted Uses.

TABLE 17-5.2(D)(1): MINIMUM NUMBER OF OFF-STREET PARKING SPACES

Minimum Number of Parking Spaces [1] [2] [3]
PRINCIPAL USE DAC [3], MC,
PRINCIPAL USE TYPE NAC, CAC, NAC, CAC, and RAC Base Zoning Districts
CATEGORY
RAC, MU-1, districts not Elsewhere Listed
MU-2

RESIDENTIAL USES
Dwelling, live-work No minimum 2/du 2/du
in accordance with an in accordance with an
Dwelling, mixed-use No minimum approved alternative approved alternative
Household parking plan parking plan
Living Uses
Dwelling, multifamily No minimum 1.5/du 1.75/du
Dwelling, single-family
No minimum 1.5/du 2/du
detached

August 20, 2019 Columbia, South Carolina

Page 5-12 Zoning Ordinance and Land Development Regulations
Packet Pg. 438
 23.a
Article 5: Development Standards
Sec. 17-5.2. Off-Street Parking, Bicycle Parking, and Loading
(d) Off-Street Parking Space Standards

TABLE 17-5.2(D)(1): MINIMUM NUMBER OF OFF-STREET PARKING SPACES

Minimum Number of Parking Spaces [1] [2] [3]
PRINCIPAL USE DAC [3], MC,
PRINCIPAL USE TYPE NAC, CAC, NAC, CAC, and RAC Base Zoning Districts
CATEGORY
RAC, MU-1, districts not Elsewhere Listed
MU-2
Dwelling, townhouse No minimum 1.5/du 2/du
Dwelling, two-family No minimum 1.5/du 2/du
Mobile home park No minimum 1.5/du 2/du
Continuing care retirement
No minimum 1 for every 4 residents 1 for every 4 residents
community (CCRC)
No minimum
Dormitory, private 0.75/bedroom 0.5 0.75/bedroom
0.5/bedroom
Group Living Dormitory, public No minimum 0. 5/bedroom 0. 5/bedroom
Uses
Fraternity or sorority house No minimum 0.75/bedroom 0.75/bedroom
Residential care facility No minimum 1 for every 4 residents 1 for every 4 residents
Rooming house or
No minimum 0.75/bedroom 1/bedroom
boardinghouse

PUBLIC, CIVIC, AND INSTITUTIONAL USES

Broadcasting studio No minimum 1/400 sf 1/200 sf

Communication Newspaper or periodical

No minimum 1.7/1,000 sf 1.7/1,000 sf
Uses publishing establishment
Wireless communication
No minimum N/A N/A
facility
Community recreation
No minimum 3/1,000 sf 3/1,000 sf
center
Correctional facility No minimum 1 for every 6 inmates 1 for every 6 inmates
Cultural facility No minimum 3/1,000 sf 3/1,000 sf
Day care facility No minimum 1 for every 10 children 1 for every 10 children
Government office No minimum 3 1,000 sf 3/1,000 sf

Community Library No minimum 3/1,000 sf 3/1,000 sf

Service Uses Membership organization
No minimum 1/500 sf 1/500 sf
facility
Place of worship No minimum 1 for every 5 seats 1 for every 5 seats
in accordance with an in accordance with an
Public safety facility No minimum approved alternative approved alternative
parking plan parking plan
Social services facility No minimum 3/1,000 sf 3/1,000 sf
Zoo No minimum No minimum No minimum
1 for every 2 1 for every 2
faculty/FTE plus faculty/FTE plus 1/500
College or university No minimum
1/1,000 SF classroom sf classroom and
Education Uses and research space research space
1 for every 8 students 1 for every 6 students
Elementary, middle, or high
No minimum (design capacity) (design capacity)
school
under 10th grade; 1 under 10th grade; 1

Columbia, South Carolina August 20, 2019

Zoning Ordinance and Land Development Regulations Page 5-13
Packet Pg. 439
 23.a
Article 5: Development Standards
Sec. 17-5.2. Off-Street Parking, Bicycle Parking, and Loading
(d) Off-Street Parking Space Standards

TABLE 17-5.2(D)(1): MINIMUM NUMBER OF OFF-STREET PARKING SPACES

Minimum Number of Parking Spaces [1] [2] [3]
PRINCIPAL USE DAC [3], MC,
PRINCIPAL USE TYPE NAC, CAC, NAC, CAC, and RAC Base Zoning Districts
CATEGORY
RAC, MU-1, districts not Elsewhere Listed
MU-2
for every 2 students for every 2 students
10th grade and above 10th grade and above

School, business or trade No minimum 1 for every 3 persons 1 for every 3 persons
Hospital No minimum 1/300 sf 1/300 sf
Laboratory, medical or
No minimum 1.7/1,000 sf 1.7/1,000 sf
Health Care dental
Uses Medical or dental
No minimum 2/1,000sf 1/250 sf
clinic/office
Nursing care facility No minimum 1 for every 6 beds 1 for every 6 beds
Arboretum or botanical
No minimum No minimum No minimum
Parks and Open garden
Space Cemetery No minimum No minimum No minimum
Park or greenway No minimum No minimum No minimum
Airport No minimum No minimum No minimum
Park and ride No minimum No minimum No minimum
Parking lot No minimum No minimum No minimum
Transportation
Uses Parking structure No minimum No minimum No minimum
Passenger terminal, surface
No minimum 1/500 sf office facilities 1/500 sf office facilities
transportation
Railroad facility No minimum 1/500 sf office facilities 1/500 sf office facilities
Solar energy conversion
No minimum 1/500 sf office facilities 1/500 sf office facilities
system (large scale)
Utility Uses Utility facility, major No minimum 1/500 sf office facilities 1/500 sf office facilities
Utility facility, minor No minimum 1/500 sf office facilities 1/500 sf office facilities

COMMERCIAL USES
Animal shelter No minimum 1/500 sf 1/500 sf
Animal Care
Kennel No minimum 1/250 sf 1/250 sf
Uses
Veterinary hospital or clinic No minimum 3/1,000 sf 3/1,000 sf
Equipment rental No minimum 3/1,000 sf 3/1,000 sf
Laboratory, photofinishing No minimum 1.7/1,000 sf 1.7/1,000 sf
Laboratory, testing or
No minimum 3 1,000 sf 3/1,000 sf
research
Commercial
Services Uses Lawn, tree, or pest control
No minimum 3/1,000 sf 3/1,000 sf
services
Linen or uniform supply No minimum 1.7/1,000 sf 1.7/1,000 sf
1/2,000 sf rentable 1/2,000 sf rentable
Self-service storage No minimum
storage area storage area

August 20, 2019 Columbia, South Carolina

Page 5-14 Zoning Ordinance and Land Development Regulations
Packet Pg. 440
 23.a
Article 5: Development Standards
Sec. 17-5.2. Off-Street Parking, Bicycle Parking, and Loading
(d) Off-Street Parking Space Standards

TABLE 17-5.2(D)(1): MINIMUM NUMBER OF OFF-STREET PARKING SPACES

Minimum Number of Parking Spaces [1] [2] [3]
PRINCIPAL USE DAC [3], MC,
PRINCIPAL USE TYPE NAC, CAC, NAC, CAC, and RAC Base Zoning Districts
CATEGORY
RAC, MU-1, districts not Elsewhere Listed
MU-2
Sign fabrication
No minimum 3/1,000 sf 13/1,000 sf
establishment
Eating establishment only No minimum 8/1,000 sf seating area 8/1,000 sf seating area
Eating and
Drinking Eating and drinking
No minimum 8/1,000 sf seating area 8/1,000 sf seating area
Establishment establishment, Type 1
Uses Eating and drinking
No minimum 8/1,000 sf seating area 8/1,000 sf seating area
establishment, Type 2
Funeral and Crematory No minimum No minimum No minimum
Mortuary
Services Uses Funeral home or mortuary No minimum 1/175 ft assembly area 1/150 sf assembly area
Business/Professional office No minimum 1/500 sf 1/500sf
Office Uses
Contractor's office No minimum 3 1,000 sf 3/1,000 sf
Bank, retail No minimum 3/1,000 sf 3/1,000 sf
Beauty salon or barbershop No minimum 2.5/1,000 sf 2.5/1,000 sf
Body piercing facilities or
No minimum 2.5/1,000 sf 2.5/1,000 sf
tattoo establishment
Personal Dry cleaning pick-up No minimum 1.7/1,000 sf 1.7/1,000 sf
Services Uses Laundry, coin-operated No minimum 2.5/1,000 sf 2.5/1,000 sf
Nail salon No minimum 2.5/1,000 sf 2.5/1,000 sf
Non-depository personal
No minimum 3/1,000 sf 3/1,000 sf
credit institution
Repair of personal goods No minimum 2.5/1,000 sf 2.5/1,000 sf
in accordance with an in accordance with an
Amusement park No minimum approved alternative approved alternative
parking plan parking plan
Arena, stadium, or outdoor
No minimum 1 for every 5 seats 1 for every 5 seats
theater
Recreation/ Banquet hall No minimum 5/1,000 sf 5/1,000 sf
Entertainment
Performing arts center No minimum 1 for every 6 seats 1 for every 5 seats
Uses
Recreation facility, indoor,
No minimum 5/1,000 sf 5/1,000 sf
not elsewhere listed
Recreation facility, outdoor,
No minimum 1 for every 5 seats 1 for every 5 seats
not elsewhere listed
Sexually-oriented business No minimum 1/300 sf 1/300 sf
Building supplies and
No minimum 1.7/1,000 sf 1.7/1,000 sf
equipment store
Consumer goods
Retail Sales No minimum 3/1,000 sf 3.5/1,000 sf
establishment
Uses
Convenience store No minimum 3/1,000 sf 3.5/1,000 sf
1/1,000 sf of vending 1/1,000 sf of vending
Farmers' market No minimum
area area

Columbia, South Carolina August 20, 2019

Zoning Ordinance and Land Development Regulations Page 5-15
Packet Pg. 441
 23.a
Article 5: Development Standards
Sec. 17-5.2. Off-Street Parking, Bicycle Parking, and Loading
(d) Off-Street Parking Space Standards

TABLE 17-5.2(D)(1): MINIMUM NUMBER OF OFF-STREET PARKING SPACES

Minimum Number of Parking Spaces [1] [2] [3]
PRINCIPAL USE DAC [3], MC,
PRINCIPAL USE TYPE NAC, CAC, NAC, CAC, and RAC Base Zoning Districts
CATEGORY
RAC, MU-1, districts not Elsewhere Listed
MU-2
Fuel sales (bulk) No minimum 1.7/1,000 sf 1.7/1,000 sf
Grocery store or food
No minimum 3/1,000 sf 3.5/1,000
market
Liquor store No minimum 3.5/1,000 sf 3.5/1,000 sf
Pawn shop No minimum 3/1,000 sf 3.5/1,000 sf
Commercial fuel depot No minimum 1 for each employee 1 for each employee
Commercial vehicle repair
No minimum 3 for each bay 3 for each bay
and maintenance
Commercial vehicle sales
No minimum 2/1,000 sf 2/1,000 sf
and rentals
Gasoline sales and service
No minimum 1/300 sf 1/300 sf
station
Vehicle Sales Personal vehicle repair and
and Services No minimum 3 for each bay 3 for each bay
maintenance
Uses Personal vehicle sales and 4/1,000 sf plus 3 for 4/1,000 sf plus 3 for
No minimum
rentals each bay each bay
Vehicle equipment supplies
No minimum 3/1,000 sf 3/1,000 sf
sales and rentals
Vehicle paint and finishing
No minimum 4/1,000 sf 4/1,000 sf
shop
Vehicle towing and wrecker
No minimum 1/500 sf 1/500 sf
service
Bed and breakfast No minimum 1 for each bedroom 1 for each bedroom

Visitor Campground No minimum 1 for each campsite 1 for each campsite

Accommoda- 0.7 for each guest 1 for each guest room
tions Uses room plus 1/300sf of plus 1/200 sf of
Hotel or motel No minimum
restaurant space or restaurant space or
meeting area meeting area

AGRICULTURAL USES
Agriculture and forestry
No minimum No minimum No minimum
uses, not elsewhere listed
Agriculture and Community garden No minimum No minimum No minimum
Forestry Uses
Crop production No minimum No minimum No minimum
Forestry No minimum No minimum No minimum

INDUSTRIAL USES
Contractor's yard No minimum 3/1,000 sf 3/1,000 sf
Freight
Motor freight facility No minimum 1.5/1,000 sf 1.5/1,000 sf
Movement,
Warehousing, Petroleum bulk station or
No minimum 1.5/1,000 sf 1.5/1,000 sf
terminal

August 20, 2019 Columbia, South Carolina

Page 5-16 Zoning Ordinance and Land Development Regulations
Packet Pg. 442
 23.a
Article 5: Development Standards
Sec. 17-5.2. Off-Street Parking, Bicycle Parking, and Loading
(d) Off-Street Parking Space Standards

TABLE 17-5.2(D)(1): MINIMUM NUMBER OF OFF-STREET PARKING SPACES

Minimum Number of Parking Spaces [1] [2] [3]
PRINCIPAL USE DAC [3], MC,
PRINCIPAL USE TYPE NAC, CAC, NAC, CAC, and RAC Base Zoning Districts
CATEGORY
RAC, MU-1, districts not Elsewhere Listed
MU-2
and Wholesale Warehouse distribution and
Uses No minimum 1.5/1,000 sf 0.5 1.5/1,000 sf
storage
Wholesale sales, not
No minimum 1.5/1,000 sf 1.5/1,000 sf
elsewhere listed
Manufacturing, assembly, or
No minimum 1.5/1,000 sf 0.5 1.5/1,000 sf
fabrication, light
Manufacturing Manufacturing, assembly, or
No minimum 1.5/1,000 sf 0.5 1.5/1,000 sf
uses fabrication, medium
Manufacturing, assembly, or
No minimum 1.5/1,000 sf 0.5 1.5/1,000 sf
fabrication, heavy
Resource
Mining No minimum No minimum No minimum
Extraction Uses
2/1,000 sf office 2/1,000 sf office
Composting facility No minimum
facilities facilities
Junk, salvage, scrap, or
No minimum 1.5/1,000 sf 1.5/1,000 sf
Waste-Related wrecking yard
Uses Recycling center No minimum 3/1,000 sf 3/1,000 sf
Refuse processing facility No minimum 1/1,200 sf 1/1,200 sf
Refuse disposal No minimum 1.5/1,000 sf 1.5/1,000 sf
NOTES:
[1] “/” is an abbreviation of “for each,” and “sf” is an abbreviation of “square feet of gross floor area.”
[2] “N/A” in the "Current" column indicates a new use.
[3] Non-residential uses occupying new or existing structures of 7,500 square feet or less are exempt from a minimum
parking requirement.
[3] Current standards listed are for the C-4 district only unless otherwise stated.

(2) Unlisted Uses

An applicant proposing to develop a principal use that is unlisted in Table 17-
5.2(d)(1): Minimum Number of Off-Street Parking Spaces, shall propose the
amount of required parking by one of the three methods outlined in this
Subsection. On receiving the application proposing to develop a principal use not
expressly listed in Table 17-5.2(d)(1), with the proposed amount of parking, the
Zoning Administrator shall:
a. Apply the minimum off-street parking space requirement specified in Table
17-5.2(d)(1) for the listed use that is deemed most similar to the proposed
use; or
b. Establish the minimum off-street parking space requirement by reference
to standard parking resources published by the Institute for Transportation

Columbia, South Carolina August 20, 2019

Zoning Ordinance and Land Development Regulations Page 5-17
Packet Pg. 443
 23.a
Article 5: Development Standards
Sec. 17-5.2. Off-Street Parking, Bicycle Parking, and Loading
(d) Off-Street Parking Space Standards

Engineers (ITE), Urban Land Institute (ULI), National Parking Association, or

the American Planning Association; or
c. Require the applicant to conduct a parking demand study to demonstrate
the appropriate minimum off-street parking space requirement. The study
shall estimate parking demand based on the recommendations of the ITE,
ULI or another acceptable source of parking demand data. This demand
study shall include relevant data collected from uses or combinations of
uses that are the same or comparable to the proposed use in terms of
density, scale, bulk, area, type of activity, and location.

(3) Mixed-Use Development

a. Unless an alternative parking plan is approved in accordance with b below,
development containing more than one use shall provide parking spaces in
an amount equal to the total of the standards for all individual uses.
b. An applicant for a development containing more than one use may submit
an alternative parking plan (see Sec. 17-5.2(f), Off-Street Parking
Alternatives) that proposes a reduction in the minimum number of
required off-street parking spaces for the development based on a
comprehensive analysis of parking demand for each use by time of day, in
addition to any other reduction for off-street parking alternatives (see Sec.
17-5.2(f), Off-Street Parking Alternatives).

(4) Reduction for Existing Conditions

Where a property does not have the area available to provide off-street parking
spaces because of existing conditions that were lawful at the time of
establishment (e.g. an existing building covers the entire parcel), the following
uses shall only be required to provide as many off-street parking spaces as will
physically fit upon the property:
a. Any nonresidential use that has a minimum parking requirement of three or
fewer parking spaces for each 1,000 square feet of gross floor area in
accordance with Table 17-5.2(d)(1): Minimum Number of Off-Street Parking
Spaces; and
b. Retail sales uses.
(5) Maximum Number of Off-Street Parking Spaces
For a multifamily dwelling, mixed-use dwelling, or any use in the Office Uses or
Retail Sales Uses category, the maximum number of off-street parking spaces
shall not exceed 125 percent of the minimum number of off-street parking spaces
required for that use in Table 17-5.2(d)(1): Minimum Number of Off-Street
Parking Spaces, except as may be allowed through approval of an alternative
parking plan in accordance with Sec. 17-5.2(f)(2), Provision over Maximum
Allowed. If there is no requirement for a minimum number of off-street parking
spaces for the use in Table 17-5.2(d)(1): Minimum Number of Off-Street Parking
Spaces, the maximum number of off-street parking spaces shall not exceed 120
percent of the minimum number of off-street parking spaces required for that

August 20, 2019 Columbia, South Carolina

Page 5-18 Zoning Ordinance and Land Development Regulations
Packet Pg. 444
 23.a
Article 5: Development Standards
Sec. 17-5.2. Off-Street Parking, Bicycle Parking, and Loading
(d) Off-Street Parking Space Standards

use in NAC, CAC, RAC, and MC districts, except as may be allowed through
approval of an alternative parking plan in accordance with Sec. 17-5.2(f)(2),
Provision over Maximum Allowed.

Columbia, South Carolina August 20, 2019

Zoning Ordinance and Land Development Regulations Page 5-19
Packet Pg. 445
 23.b

ORDINANCE NO.: 2022-091

Amending the 1998 Code of Ordinances of the City of Columbia, South Carolina,
Chapter 17 (Unified Development Ordinance), Article 5, Development Standards, Sec.
17-5.2, Off-Street Parking, Bicycle Parking, and Loading

BE IT ORDAINED by the Mayor and Council this day of

_ _ _ _ _ _, 2022, that the 1998 Code of Ordinances of the City of Columbia, South
Carolina, Chapter 17 (Unified Development Ordinance), Article 5, Development
Standards, Sec. 17-5.2, Off-Street Parking, Bicycle Parking, and Loading is amended to
read as follows:

Sec. 17- 5.2 Off-Street Parking, Bicycle Parking, and Loading

(d) Off-Street Parking Space Standards

(1) Minimum Number of Off-Street Parking Spaces

Except as otherwise provided for mixed-use developments (see Sec. 17-
5.2(d)(3)) or for existing conditions (see Sec. 17-5 .2(d)(4)), new development
or a change in use or expansion shall provide the minimum number of off-
street parking spaces in accordance with Table 17-5.2(d)(l): Minimum
Number of Off-Street Parking Spaces, based on the principal use(s) involved
and the extent of development. Interpretation of the off-street parking space
standards for principal uses with variable parking demands or unlisted
principal uses shall be in accordance with Sec. 17-5.2(d)(2), Unlisted Uses.

TABLE 17-5.2{0){1): MINIMUM NUMBER OF OFF-STREET PARKING SPACES

Minimum Number of Parking Spaces [1] [2] _m

PRINCIPAL USE DAC PJ, MC,

PRINCIPAL USE TYPE NAC,CAC, Ill.~,, ,,ll,,, aR~ R.ll,, Base Zoning Districts
CATEGORY
RAC, MU-1, ~ not Elsewhere Listed
MU-2

RESIDENTIAL USES

Dwelling, live-work No minimum ~ 2/du

iA aeeeFelaAee wittl a A in accordance with an
Dwelling, mixed-use No minimum appFe\•eel alteFAatiYe approved alternative
Household
paFkiAg pia A parking plan
Living Uses
Dwelling, mu ltifamily No minimum ~ 1.75/du
Dwelling, single-fami ly
No minimum ~ 2/du
detached

Last revised: 9/712022

22014093

Packet Pg. 446

 23.b

TABLE 17-5.2{0)(1): MINIMUM NUMBER OF OFF-STREET PARKING SPACES

Minimum Number of Parking Spaces [1) [2) ill

PRINCIPAL USE DAC {6}, MC,

CATEGORY
PRINCIPAL USE TYPE NAC,CAC, N,&,,, ,A,, aRr.l AM: Base Zoning Districts
RAC, MU-1, ~ not Elsewhere Listed
MU-2
Dwelling, townhouse No minimum ~ 2/du

Dwelling, two-family No minimum ~ 2/du

M obile home park No minimum ~ 2/du

Continuing care retirement
No minimum ± feF eYef'V 4 FesiaeAts 1 for eve ry 4 residents
community (CCRC)
No m inimum
Dormitory, private Q,7§,19eSF99FR Qd_G,+;/bedroom
Q.§,leeSFSSFR
Group Living Dormitory, public No minimum Q. !i,leesFSSFR 0. 5/bedroom
Uses
Fraternity or sorority house No minimum Q.7!i,l9e8F88FR 0.75/bedroom

Residentia l care faci lity No minimum ± feF e~·eF¥ 4 FesiseAts 1 for every 4 residents
Rooming house or
No minimu m Q.7§1l9eSF88FR 1/bedroom
boardinghouse

PUBLIC, CIVIC, AND INSTITUTIONAL U SES

Broadcasting studio No minimum :J:,t4QQ sf 1/200 sf

Newspaper or periodica l
Communication No minimum U,t:J:,QQQ sf 1. 7/1,000 sf
publ ishing establish ment
Uses
Wireless co mmunication
faci lity
No min imum N/A N/A

Commu nity recreation

No minimum 3,l:J:,QQQ sf 3/1,000 sf
center
Co rrectiona l facility No minimum ± feF e"'eF¥ 6 iAmates 1 for every 6 inmates

Cultural facility No minimum 3,t:J:,QQQ sf 3/1,000 sf

Day care facility No min imum ± feF e"'eF¥ :J:Q el=tilaFeA 1 for every 10 children

Government office No minimum 3 ±,QQQ sf 3/1,000 sf

Library No minimum 3,I:J:,QQQ sf 3/1,000 sf

Community
Service Uses M embership o rganization
No minimum ~ 1/500 sf
facility
Place o f worship No minimum ± fa F eYe F¥ !i seats 1 for every 5 seat s
iA aeeeFElaAee witl=t a A in accordance with an
Public safety facility No minimum aJ3J3FSYe8 alteFAatiYe approved alternative
JlaFkiAg J3laA parking pian
Social services facility No minimum 3,t:J:,QQQ sf 3/1,000 sf
Zoo No minimum ~le FRiAiFRilFR No minimum
± feF eYeF¥;;! 1 for every 2
fa elllty,IF=J:!;; Jlllls faculty/FTE plus 1/500
College or university No minimum
±,t:J:,QQQ SF elassFeem sf classroom and
Edu cation Uses aAEl FeseaFel=t SJ3aee resea rch space
Last revised: 9/7/2022
22014093

Packet Pg. 447

- - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - -

23.b

~ faF e"'ef>t•8 stl,leeRt.s 1 for every 6 students

Elementary, middle, or high
No minimum (eesigR ea13aeity) (design capacity)
school
l,lRGeF ±<:lth gFaee; ~ under lOth grade; 1

TABLE 17-5.2(0)(1): MINIMUM NUMBER OF OFF-STREET PARKING SPACES

Minimum Number of Parking Spaces [1] [2] U]

PRINCIPAL USE DAC ~ MC,

CATEGORY
PRINCIPAL USE TYPE NAC,CAC, NA,, ,A,, aR~ RJ'' Base Zoning Districts
RAC, MU-1, ~ not Elsewhere listed
MU-2
faF e•rePf ~ st~:~eeRts for every 2 student s
~Qtl=lgFaee aRe aea...e lOth grade and above

School, business or trade No minimum ~ faF e~•ePf 3 j3eFSaRS 1 for every 3 persons
Hospital No minimum ~ 1/300 sf
Laboratory, medica l or
No minimum 1.7/~,QQQ sf 1.7/1,000 sf
Health Care dental
Uses Medical or dental
No minimum ~~~.QQQsf 1/250 sf
clinic/office
Nursing care facility No minimum ~ faF e...e,.!; eees 1 for every 6 beds
Arboretum o r botanical
No minimum Na R'liRiffii:IR'I No minimum
garden
Parks and Open
Space Cemetery No minimum Na R'liAiffii:IR'I No minimum
Park or greenway No minimum Na R'liRiffii:IR'I No minimum

Airport No minimum ~Ia R'liRiffii:IR'I No minimum

Park and ride No minimum ~Ia R'liRiR'II,lR'I No minimum

Parking lot No minimum ~Ia R'liRiffii:IR'I No minimum
Transportation
Uses Parking structure No minimum ~Ia R'liRiffii:IR'I No minimum
Passengerterminal, surface
No minimum ~/SQQ sf affiee faeilities 1/500 sf office facilities
transportation
Rai lroa d facility No minimum ~/SQQ sf affiee faeilities 1/500 sf office faci lities
So lar energy conversio n
No minimum ~/SQQ sf affiee faeilities 1/500 sf office facilities
system (la rge scale)
Utility Uses
Utility facility, major No minimum ~/SQQ sf effiee faeilities 1/500 sf office facilities
Utility facility, minor No minimum ~/SQQ sf effiee faeilities 1/500 sf office facilities

COMMERCIAL USES

Anima l shelter No minimum ~ 1/500 sf

Animal Ca re
Kennel No minimum ~ 1/250 sf
Uses
Vete rinary hospita l or clinic No minimum 3/~,QQQ sf 3/1,000 sf
Equipment rental No minimum 3/~,QQQ sf 3/1,000 sf
Laboratory, photofinishing No minimum ~.7/~, QQQ sf 1.7/1,000 sf
Laboratory, testing or
No minimum 3 ~,QQQ sf 3/1,000 sf
research
Commercial
Services Uses Lawn, tree, or pest control
No minimum 3/~,QQQ sf 3/1,000 sf
services
Linen or uniform supply No minimum ~.7/±,QQQ sf 1. 7/1,000 sf

Last revised: 9/7/2022

220 14093

Packet Pg. 448

 23.b

1/2,QQQ sf reAtal31e 1/2,000 sf rentable

Se lf-service storage No minimum
storaee area sto rage area

TABLE 17-5.2{0)(1): MINIMUM NUMBER OF OFF-STREET PARKING SPACES

M inimum Number of Parking Spaces [1] [2] ill [F==
PRINCIPAL USE
CATEGORY
PRINCIPAL USE TYPE
DACfil, MC,
NAC,CAC,
RAC, MU-1,
N!I.C1 CAC, a REI RAC
~
Base Zoning Districts
not Elsewhere Listed
uv
~[F==
MU-2
Sign fabrication
No minimum ;!/l,QQQ sf .!~/1,000 sf
esta blishment
Eati ng establishment only No minimum 8/1,QQQ sf seatiAg area 8/1,000 sf seat ing area
Eating and
Eati ng and drinki ng
Drinking No minimum 8/1,QQQ sf seatiAg area 8/1,000 sf seat i ng area
establish ment, Type 1

~
Establishment
Uses Eating and drin ki ng

uv
No minimum 8/1,QQQ sf seatiAg area 8/1,000 sf seati ng area
establish ment, Type 2
Funeral and Crematory No minimum ~jo FAiAiFAIJFA No minimum

~
M ortuary
Services Uses Fu neral home or mortuary No minimum 1/17§ ft asseml31¥ area 1/150 sf assembly area

Office Uses
Business/Professional office
Contractor's office
No minimum

No minimum
~
;! 1,QQQ sf
1/SOOsf

3/1,000 sf
d§
Ba nk, reta il No minimum ;!/1,QQQ sf 3/1,000 sf
~
Bea uty sa lon or barbershop No minimum 2.§/1,QQQ sf 2.5/1,000 sf c:::::::
~
Body piercing facilities or
No minimum 2.§/1,QQQ sf 2.5/1,000 sf
tattoo establishment

Personal
Services Uses
Dry cleaning pick-up

La undry, coi n-operat ed

No minimum

No minimum
1.7/1,QQQ sf

2.§/1,QQQ sf
1. 7/1,000 sf
2.5/1,000 sf uv
Nail salon
Non-deposit ory personal
No minimum 2.§/1,QQQ sf 2.5/1,000 sf
~
credit institut ion
No minimum ;!/1,QQQ sf 3/1,000 sf
c:::::::
Repair of personal goods No minimum 2.§/1,QQQ sf 2.5/1,000 sf

Amu sement park No minimum

iA aeeor8aAee witl=l aA
aJ:IJ:lro•~e8 alterAatiYe
in accorda nce with an
approved alternative ~
~c:v
JlaFiliAg 13iaR parking plan
Arena, sta dium, or outdoor
No minimum 1 for eYe ry § seats 1 for every 5 seats
t heater
Recreat ion/ Ban quet hall No minimum §/1,QQQ sf 5/1,000 sf
Entertainment
Performing arts center No minimum 1 for eYery Gseats 1 for eve ry 5 seats
Uses
Recreation f acility, indoor,
No minimum §/1,QQQ sf 5/1,000 sf
c:::::::
not elsewhere list ed
Recreation f acility, outdoor,
No minimum 1 for eYe ry § seats 1 for every 5 seats
not elsewhere list ed
Sexua lly-oriented business No minimum ~ 1/300 sf
Building supplies and
No minimum 1.7/l,QQQ sf 1.7/1,000 sf
equipment st ore I

Last revised: 9/7/2022

22014093

Packet Pg. 449

 23.b

Consumer goods
No minimum a,t±, QQQ sf 3.5/1,000 sf
Retail Sales establishment
Uses
Co nvenience store No minimum a,t±, QQQ sf 3.5/1,000 sf
V±,QQQ sf efveAeliAg 1/1,000 sf of vending
Farmers' market No minimum
aFea area

TABLE 17-5.2(0)(1): MINIMUM NUMBER OF OFF-STREET PARKING SPACES

Minimum Number of Par king Spaces [1] [2] UJ
DAC ~i}, MC,
PRINCIPAL USE
CATEGORY
PRI NCIPAL USE TYPE NAC.CAC, NA,, ,A,, aREI RJI4 Base Zoning Districts
RAC, MU-1, ~ not Elsewhere List ed
MU-2

Fuel sa les (bulk) No minimum U,t±,QQQsf 1.7/1,000 sf

Grocery store or food
No minimum af;l,QQQ sf 3.5/1,000
market
Liquor store No minimum a.§,t±,QQQ sf 3.5/1,000 sf
Pawn shop No minimum a,t±,QQQ sf 3.5/1,000 sf
Commercial fuel depot No m inimum ± feF eaell eFAJlle•;ee 1 for each employee
Commercial vehicle repair
No m inimum a feF eaelllla•; 3 for each bay
and maintenance
Commercial vehicle sales
No mi nimum ;!,t±,QQQ sf 2/1,000 sf
and rentals
Gasoline sales an d service
station
No minimum ~ 1/300 sf
Vehicle Sales Pe rsona l vehicle repair an d
and Services
No minimum a feF eaelllla~· 3 for each bay
maintenance
Uses Personal vehicle sales and 4,£±,QQQ sf JllijS a feF 4/1,000 sf p lus 3 for
No mi nimum
renta ls eaelllla'f each bay
Vehicle equipment supplies
No minimum a,t±,QQQ sf 3/1,000 sf
sales and rentals
Vehicle pai nt and finis hing
No minimum 41l±,QQQ sf 4/1,000 sf
shop
Vehicle towing and w recker
No minimum ~ 1/500 sf
service
Bed and breakfast No minimum ± feF eaelllleelFeeFA 1 for each bedroom

Visitor Campground No min imum ± faF eaell eaFAJlsite 1 f or each campsite

Accom moda- Q.7 faF eaell gljest 1 for each guest room
tions Uses Faa FA Jllijs l,taQQsf ef plus 1/200 sf of
Hotel or motel No minim um
FestaijFaAt SJlaEe eF restau ra nt space or
FAeetiAg aFea meeting area

AGRICULTURAL USES

Agricu lture and forestry

No minimum ~I a FAiAiFAijFA No minimum
uses, not elsewhere listed
Agricult ure and Commu nity garden No minimum Ne FAiAiFAijFA No minimum
Forest ry Uses
Crop production No m inimum ~I a FAiAiFAijFA No minimum
Forestry No m inimum ~Ia FAiAiFAijFA No minimum

INDUSTRIAL U SES

Last revised: 9/ 7!2022

22014093

Packet Pg. 450

 23.b

Contracto r's yard No minimum ~tl,QQQ sf 3/1,000 sf

Freight
Motor freight facility No minimum 1.!3/l,QQQ sf 1.5/1,0 00 sf
Movement,
W arehousing, Petroleum bulk station o r
No minimum :u;,Ll,QQQ sf 1.5/ 1,000 sf
t ermina l

TABLE 17-5.2(0)(1): MINIMUM NUMBER OF OFF-STREET PARKING SPACES

'

M inimum Number of Parking Spaces [1] [2] ill

PRINCIPAL USE DAC ~ MC,

CATEGORY
PRINCIPAL USE TYPE NAC,CAC, NJl,,, ,Jl,,, aRa RA(; Base Zoning Districts
RAC, MU-1, ~ not Elsewhere listed
MU-2
and Wh olesale Ware house distribution and
No minimum l .S,ll,QQQ sf .Q.d_M/ 1,000 sf
Uses storage
W holesale sales, not
No minimum l.Stl,QQQ sf 1.5/ 1,000 sf
elsewhere listed
M anufacturing, assembly, or
No minimum l .S,ll,QQQ sf 0.5 M / 1,000 sf
fabrication, light
M anufacturing Manufacturi ng, asse mbly, or
No minimu m l.S,ll,QQQ sf .Q.d_M/ 1,000 sf
uses fabrication, medium
M an ufacturing, asse mbly, o r
No minimum l .S,ll,QQQ sf .Q.d_M/1,000 sf
fabrication, heavy
Resource
Mining No min imum ~la miRim~Jm No minimum
Extraction Uses
;!tl,QQQ sf affiee 2/ 1,0 00 sf office
Com posti ng facility No minimum
faEilities facilities
Junk, salvage, scrap, or
No minimum l.Stl,QQQ sf 1.5/ 1,000 sf
W aste-Relat ed wrecking yard
Uses Recycling center ~tl,QQQ sf
No minimum 3/1,000 sf
Refuse processing facility No minimum ltl,;!QQ sf 1/1,200 sf
Refuse disposal No minimum l .Stl,QQQ sf 1.5/1,000 sf
NOTES:
[1] "/" is an abbreviation of "for each," and "sf" is an abbreviation of " square feet of gross f loor area ."
[2] " N/ A" in t he "Current" co lumn in dicates a new use.
[3] Non-residential uses occu Q~in g new or existing structures of 7,500 sguare feet or less are exemQt from a minimum
Qarking reguirement.
1~1 <;;~JFFeAt staAEiaFEis listeEI a Fe faF tRe <;; 4 ElistFiet sRI•~ ~!Riess atReFwise stateEI.

(2) Unlisted Uses

An applicant proposing to develop a principal use that is tmlisted in Table 17-
5 .2(d)( 1): Minimwn Number of Off-Street Parking Spaces, shall propose the
amount of required parking by one of the three methods outlined in this
Subsection . On receiving the application proposing to develop a principal use
not expressly listed in Table 17-5.2(d)(1), with the proposed amount of
parking, the Zoning Administrator shall:

Last revised : 9/7/2022

22014093

Packet Pg. 451

 23.b

a. Apply the minimum off-street parking space requirement specified in Table

17-5.2(d)(1) for the listed use that is deemed most similar to the proposed
use; or

b. Establish the minimum off-street parking space requirement by reference to

standard parking resources published by the Institute for Transportation
Engineers (ITE), Urban Land Institute (ULI), National Parking
Association, or the American Planning Association; or

c. Require the applicant to conduct a parking demand study to demonstrate the

appropriate minimum off-street parking space requirement. The study shall
estimate parking demand based on the recommendations of the ITE, ULI or
another acceptable source of parking demand data. This demand study shall
include relevant data collected from uses or combinations of uses that are the
same or comparable to the proposed use in terms of density, scale, bulk, area,
type of activity, and location.

(3) Mixed-Use Development

a. Unless an alternative parking plan is approved in accordance with b below,

development containing more than one use shall provide parking spaces in
an amount equal to the total of the standards for all individual uses.

b. An applicant for a development containing more than one use may submit
an alternative parking plan (see Sec. 17-5.2(£), Off-Street Parking
Alternatives) that proposes a reduction in the minimum number of required
off-street parking spaces for the development based on a comprehensive
analysis of parking demand for each use by time of day, in addition to any
other reduction for off-street parking alternatives (see Sec. 17-5.2(£), Off-
Street Parking Alternatives).

(4) Reduction in Existing Conditions

Where a property does not have the area available to provide off-street parking
spaces because of existing conditions that were lawful at the time of establishment
(e.g. an existing building covers the entire parcel), the fo llowing uses shall only be
required to provide as many off-street parking spaces as will physically fit upon the
property:

a. Any nonresidential use that has a minimum parking requirement of three or

fewer parking spaces for each 1,000 square feet of gross floor area in
accordance with Table 17-5.2(d)(1): Minimum Number of Off-Street
Parking Spaces; and

b. Retail sales uses.

Last revised: 9/7/2022

22014093

Packet Pg. 452

 23.b

(5) Maximum Number of Off-Street Parking Spaces

For a multifamily dwelling, mixed-use dwel ling, or any use in the Office Uses or
Retail Sales Uses category, the maximum number of off-street parking spaces shall
not exceed 125 percent of the minimum number of off-street parking spaces
required for that use in Table 17-5.2(d)(l): Minimum Number of Off-Street Parking
Spaces, except as may be allowed through approval of an alternative parking plan
in accordance with Sec. 17-5.2(±)(2), Provision over Maximum Allowed. If there is
no requirement for a minimum number of off-street parking spaces for the use in
Table 17-5.2(d)(l): Minimum Number of Off-Street Parking Spaces, the maximum
number of off-street parking spaces shall not exceed 120 percent of the minimum
number of off-street parking spaces required for that use in NAC, CAC, RAC, and
MC districts, except as may be allowed through approval of an alternative parking
plan in accordance with Sec. 17-5.2(£)(2), Provision over Maximum Allowed.

Requested by:

Assistant City Manager Gentry

Mayor
Approved by:

City Manager

Approved as to form: ATTEST:

~epip City Clerk

Introduced:
Final Reading:

Last revised: 9/7/2022

220 14093

Packet Pg. 453