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15 <br /> ORANGE COUNTY <br /> N(.TKI-H C;AROLINA Orange County, North Carolina <br /> Orange Affordable • • <br /> gic <br /> VI. LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT <br /> A. INTRODUCTION <br /> Land use and zoning standards set mandatory parameters for varying land <br /> uses, housing types, and density to shape community character. Zoning can <br /> be used as a means to exclude or include diverse housing stocks. Zoning <br /> can often affect housing affordability if higher density, smaller lots, or multi- <br /> unit buildings are not permitted. However, zoning alone does not determine <br /> whether or not developments will result in lower density. In many cases, <br /> communities are not developed to the maximum density allowed by zoning <br /> or supported by adopted land use plans. For example, proposed residential <br /> development may determine density and the total number of units based on <br /> the existing base zoning district instead of exploring upzoning opportunities <br /> through the rezoning process. Upzoning or rezoning property to a different <br /> residential or commercial zoning district that allows for greater density <br /> supported by a comprehensive land use plan could allow for increased <br /> density and more residential units compared to what would be permitted <br /> with the existing base zoning district. <br /> Development in Orange County is planned and <br /> guided by the Orange County 2030 <br /> Comprehensive Land Use Plan which acts as a <br /> 2030 Comprehensive Plan <br /> blueprint for future growth and development. <br /> Zoning and land use controls are regulated and q` F <br /> based on the Orange County Unified <br /> Development Ordinance. Several goals a A> <br /> identified in the 2030 Comprehensive Land Use <br /> Plan and the Housing Element support ADOPTED <br /> affordable housing efforts and needs in the <br /> county. These goals are reflective in standards <br /> contained in the Unified Development Ordinance <br /> that provide for affordable housing opportunities. Orange County strives to <br /> support affordable housing efforts through zoning regulations, permitting <br /> processes, and housing policies. <br /> Draft Affordable Housing Strategic Plan <br />