PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. – In a move to involve residents in the shaping of its local development and land use policies, the Calvert County Department of Planning & Zoning has opened its doors to public participation in the updating process of the Calvert County Zoning Ordinance. With a series of events planned to facilitate feedback and discussion, the department aims to incorporate the community’s voice into the future of local development, ensuring that policies reflect the needs and aspirations of its residents.
Starting March 8, the department invites the public to submit their comments on two pivotal articles under review. Article 20, focusing on Forest Conservation, outlines regulations for subdivisions, site developments, and various permits in areas exceeding 40,000 square feet, with a draft available for public review online. Similarly, Article 21 deals with the protection of Natural Resources, emphasizing the minimization of development impacts on sensitive environmental features such as water quality, wetlands, and vegetation, with its draft also accessible online.
Residents have until April 5 to submit their feedback via email to ZOupdate@calvertcountymd.gov or by mail, ensuring their voices are heard in the ordinance update process. Further engagement opportunities include a public forum scheduled for March 14 at the Harriet E. Brown Community Center, where attendees can interact directly with zoning staff, ask questions, and gain insights into the proposed updates. For those unable to attend in person, a virtual participation option is available through Zoom.
A joint work session with the Board of County Commissioners and Planning Commission is set for April 17, providing another platform for public observation and input. This session, like the public forum, will take place at the Harriet E. Brown Community Center, reinforcing the department’s commitment to transparency and community involvement.
These events are part of a broader initiative to revise the Calvert County Zoning Ordinance, a document that guides land use, public facilities, and overall development within the county. This effort aligns with the mandates of the Comprehensive Plan, adopted in 2019 and amended in 2022, which seeks to promote the health, safety, and welfare of Calvert County residents.
For those interested in learning more about the zoning ordinance update or wishing to participate in the public comment period, the schedule for each phase and the draft articles are available at www.CalvertCountyMd.gov/ZoningOrdinanceUpdate. Changes to this schedule may occur, and the department encourages checking the website for the most current information.
For further inquiries or assistance, Rachel O’Shea and Will Hager of the Calvert County Department of Planning & Zoning are available via phone or email, ready to provide additional information and support to residents wishing to engage in this critical community development process.
