Newberry Tightens Grip on Big-Box Development

NEWBERRY – The Newberry City Commission unanimously adopted Ordinance 2025-05 during its regular meeting on Monday, June 9, 2025, approving a series of regulatory changes aimed at managing the design and development of large-scale retail establishments, commonly referred to as “big box” stores.

The ordinance was approved on second reading and incorporates recommendations from the city’s Planning and Zoning Board, which reviewed the proposed changes at its April 7 meeting. Community Development Director Stacey Hectus delivered a presentation to the commission outlining the purpose and scope of the ordinance.

Adoption of Ordinance 2025-05 amends the City’s Land Development Regulations and the Gateway Overlay Code. The revisions are designed to establish development standards that ensure large-scale retail projects align with Newberry’s rural character and community values.

“The amendments include input from the public, local planning agency and the Newberry City Commission,” said Hectus. “This ordinance will ensure large-scale retail establishments are compatible with Newberry's rural aesthetics and cultural value.”

Key components of the ordinance include detailed standards for building orientation, materials, parking design, landscaping and signage within the Gateway Overlay District. These standards are intended to provide clear guidance for developers and reinforce the city’s vision for its entry corridors.

Among the changes recommended by the Planning and Zoning Board and now adopted into the ordinance are new requirements for roadway buffer zones. The modified buffer depths are as follows:

• Zone 1: Increased from 15 feet to 25 feet
• Zone 2: Increased from 25 feet to 50 feet
• Zone 3: Increased from 50 feet to 100 feet
• Zone 4: Evaluated for the possible establishment of an additional zone

Further revisions to the Overlay District standards include:

• Installation of wider sidewalks along storefronts
• Application of Overlay standards to the entirety of the development site
• Maximum building height of 42 feet within the Overlay District
• Implementation of a cap to limit excessive parking
• Reduction of the size threshold defining a large-scale retail building from 80,000 square feet to 60,000 square feet

The changes reflect efforts by the City of Newberry to preserve its community identity while accommodating growth and commercial development. The ordinance was shaped by public input and represents a coordinated effort among city leaders, staff, and planning officials to ensure that new retail construction remains consistent with the city’s long-term vision.

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