Fort Mill residents have expressed mixed but largely cautious opinions about the proposed zoning changes and related residential development policies in 2025. The Town Council enacted a temporary moratorium on new residential rezoning and annexation applications until at least December 31, 2025. This pause allows staff and planners time to complete comprehensive planning efforts, including an overarching long-term development plan called “Fort Mill: Our Path Forward,” as well as a Downtown Master Plan and Parks and Recreation Master Plan.
Most residents seem to understand the necessity of this moratorium due to Fort Mill’s rapid growth—from a population of under 12,000 in 2010 to over 36,000 today— which has strained infrastructure and public services. However, there is concern about the impact of extremely high development impact fees on housing affordability. The new fees, among the highest in the nation, could inhibit the construction of affordable housing. Some community members and housing advocates worry this may price out lower and moderate-income families from new developments.
Public participation has been encouraged through surveys and public meetings, with hundreds of residents actively contributing feedback to shape the town’s vision and growth strategy through 2045. The Town Council emphasizes the importance of community input before long-term zoning and land use decisions are finalized.
In summary, Fort Mill residents recognize the need for careful planning and infrastructure investment but remain watchful about potential negative effects on housing affordability and community diversity. The ongoing comprehensive planning process is seen as a critical opportunity to balance growth with quality of life and equitable access to housing.
SOURCES
[1](https://www.wrhi.com/2025/05/fort-mill-council-approves-development-fee-updates-pauses-new-residential-rezoning-and-debates-recreation-tax-changes-200326)
[2](https://www.constructionowners.com/news/fort-mill-halts-new-housing-projects-ahead-of-impact-fees)
[3](https://www.fortmillsc.gov/ourpathforward)
[4](https://citizenportal.ai/articles/6531417/Fort-Mill-imposes-temporary-pause-on-new-residential-rezoning-and-advances-comprehensive-plan-outreach)
[5](https://www.fortmillsc.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_11172025-547)
