Drug rehab centers get green light in North Myrtle Beach. Here’s how it will work
Those in need of substance abuse treatment in North Myrtle Beach might get the opportunity to seek help locally after officials voted to consider it a permitted use within the city’s zoning code.
With rehab facilities not having a specified use in any of the city’s current zoning districts, City Council members on Monday approved the second and final reading of an ordinance that will amend the zoning text to allow such businesses to open in the Limited Industrial District.
Currently, the zoning code only addresses medical uses such as hospitals, clinics and nursing and convalescent homes.
Mayor Marilyn Hatley previously said discussions regarding zoning outpatient facilities started when an interested party approached the city. She said the city has a legal obligation to create the zoning for it.
The zoning designation is one that currently allows tattoo parlors, wholesale establishments, warehousing, businesses engaging in body piercing, gaming or gambling boats and wireless telephone transmission towers to operate.
If approved, an outpatient facility would be considered a special exception within the LI district, meaning the Board of Zoning Appeals must ensure a potential proposal complies with all applicable development standards, be in substantial harmony with the area in which it is to be located and will not be injurious to adjoining property, according to the ordinance.
Additionally, zoning must not discourage or negate the use of surrounding property for permitted uses, but upon approving a special exception, officials can impose additional stipulations, conditions and safeguards if they feel it will enhance the area’s appearance.
Other special exceptions to the zoning district include, manufacturing establishments, veterinary clinics and animal hospitals, marina and boat yards, and firework sales.
This story was originally published March 16, 2020 at 7:57 PM.
