What is the UDO?

The Unified Development Ordinance - or UDO - is the County's zoning ordinance. It is a comprehensive county ordinance combining development rules - such as zoning, subdivision regulations, stormwater requirements, and other specific topics - into a single, user-friendly source. You can review the UDO here; please note that the UDO can be amended, and our website will always have the latest version.

If you’re thinking about building on or developing your land in Union County, this document is a helpful guide to understanding our rules and regulations before you get started. The first step is understanding where your property is located and which rules apply—whether it’s under county jurisdiction or a specific town. From there, you’ll check your zoning and see what you’re allowed to build. You can get started on our Development Services page.

Note that some properties may qualify for agricultural exemptions, while others will follow standard zoning rules. The guide also points you to tools like maps and local ordinances so you can quickly look up details about your land.

Once you know what’s allowed, the guide walks you through the approval process, which may include a permitting process with staff, approval through a County board, or some other process. 

Overall, this guide is meant to make the process easier to understand. It gives you a clear path forward, helps you avoid common mistakes, and shows you who to contact along the way. Whether you’re a homeowner, investor, or developer, it’s a helpful starting point for turning your land into something usable.

To get started, visit our Development Services page, or contact Union County Planning anytime at 704-283-3565 or ucplanning@unioncountync.gov. 

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