Planning

The McDowell County Planning Department is responsible for administering all county land use and land development ordinances. These include the Subdivision of Land, Mobile Home Parks, Watershed, Zoning, Lake James Protection Ordinance, and more. Links to all Planning ordinances can be found under the Planning Ordinances tab. The Planning Department provides staff support to the Planning Board, Board of Adjustment, and Historic Preservation Commission. For more information on meeting times, please visit the Committees tab under the Commissioners section on our webpage.  The Department also provides support and guidance to other agencies and organizations to carry out community development projects and programs.

What is the Planning Department’s Mission? 

The Planning Department's mission is to help landowners and developers work within the parameters of these ordinances to develop land in McDowell County responsibly. 

What does a Planning Administrator do? 

The Planning Administrator works in conjunction with the Planning Board, which hears rezoning requests, approves major subdivision plats, and does much more. The Board meets on the fourth Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the County Services Building.

What jurisdiction does the McDowell County Planning Department have? 

The Planning Department only enforces ordinances within McDowell County limits. If your property is located within either municipal boundary, please contact the city of Marion (828-652-3551) or the town of Old Fort (828-668-4244) for more information. 

How do I check to see if my property is zoned? 

Visit mcdowellgov.com and find the globe labeled McDowell GIS on the bottom left of the main screen. From here, you’ll be able to type in your name or address and toggle on the zoning layer. If you prefer, you can call our office at 828-659-0858 for more zoning information. 

My property is in a floodplain, who do I contact? 

McDowell County Building Inspections handles all floodplain-related questions. They can be contacted at (828) 203-6282

If you have any questions or concerns you can contact the Planning Department at 828-659-0858
or rharmon@mcdowellgov.com

Ronald Harmon
Deputy County Manager for Community Development