Planning & Zoning

For nearly 14 years, Sampson County partnered with the City of Clinton to manage planning and zoning services. As of July 2018, the county brought these services in-house, creating a new Department of Inspections and Planning Services. This "one-stop shop" approach combines Inspections, Planning, and Environmental Health personnel in a centralized location for improved citizen convenience.

Effective planning and zoning practices offer a range of benefits for Sampson County:

• Achieving Community Goals: Planning helps translate the community's vision for its future into concrete actions.
• Protecting Property Values: Zoning regulations safeguard property rights by preventing incompatible land uses.
• Predictable Development: Zoning establishes clear guidelines for development, ensuring a more organized growth pattern.
• Boosting Economic Growth: Planning can designate areas for economic development, attracting businesses and creating jobs.
• Efficient Public Services: Strategic planning helps ensure that public services (like schools and roads) are located strategically to meet the needs of a growing population.
• Environmental Protection: Planning considers environmental factors to minimize negative impacts from development.
• Maintaining Community Character: Zoning helps preserve the unique character of neighborhoods by setting standards for building design and aesthetics.

By taking a proactive approach to planning and zoning, Sampson County can ensure responsible growth that benefits current and future generations.