Catawba County News
Catawba County 101
Published: February 28, 2025
MAKING. LIVING. BETTER: Planning
What is its mission/purpose?
The Planning Department’s goal is to preserve aspects of life which make Catawba County a desirable place to live by promoting responsible land use, accommodating population growth, fostering economic development, and preserving environmental integrity and community character.
How do you achieve your mission – what services are offered?
In order to achieve their goals, the Planning Department utilizes the Catawba County Comprehensive Plan and the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) when reviewing proposed development. The comprehensive plan, which is an extensive, community-reviewed document outlining present and proposed land uses and standards, acts as the guiding document. The UDO serves as the regulatory document to enforce the goals in the comprehensive plan.
Who does this department serve?
The Planning Department serves all community members outside of municipalities.
How and where are services delivered?
The Planning office is located in the Government Center at 25 Government Drive Newton, NC 28658. This is where you’ll typically find the Planning team when they’re not out doing site visits or attending meetings.
How many staff members are involved in delivering services?
There are six members of the Planning Team.
How does our community and/or organization benefit from these services?
As the county continues to grow and adapt, the community benefits through well-planned development that meets the goals and standards of the Comprehensive Plan and UDO.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
The Planning Department has won the group Halloween costume award 3 years in a row!!
DID YOU KNOW
1. A new Comprehensive Plan was adopted by the Board of Commissioners just this last year in April 2024. The Catawba County Comprehensive Plan, referred to internally as the Planning Department’s “guiding document,” was developed via a steering committee comprised of county residents who received input from other community members and technical staff.
2. 2024 was also the year that the Planning Department (along with the Permit Center and Environmental Health) shifted entirely to an online application system. This means customers no longer need to come in person or mail in zoning applications, which is very convenient.
3. The Planning Department issued almost 1500 zoning permits in 2024!
4. Looking ahead, the Planning Department is currently working with County Admin and contractors to rewrite the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). Catawba County’s UDO (which can be accessed via the Planning website) contains the regulations for development in the county.
5. In case you missed this in the Department Spotlight, the Planning Department has won the Best Group Halloween Costume Award 3 years in a row (we’re very proud)!