Dorchester County advanced the Pine Ridge Estates Phase 3 preliminary plan, adding 125 lots and approving requested design modifications while outlining required road, utility and amenity conditions before final plat review.
The Dorchester County Planning Commission advanced the preliminary plan for Pine Ridge Estates Phase 3 with several modifications requested by the developer and recommended by planning staff. The proposal represents a 125 lot expansion of the existing Pine Ridge Estates subdivision, located near Givens Ferry State Park off Cummings Chapel Road and Indigo Road, approximately three miles south of Ridgeville. Phases 1 and 2 were previously approved, comprising 143 lots across about 250 acres and are currently under development.
Phase 3 would add roughly 125 single family lots on about 192 acres. The developer requested modifications to county standards concerning street design requirements under section 20.4.0.3 and lot geometry under section 20.1.0.1.e, which addresses depth to width ratios. Planning staff supported the modifications because the parcel’s configuration and the presence of wetlands limit the ability to meet standard design specifications. These same modifications were granted in earlier phases.
During revisions to county ordinances in 2024, the county approved an exemption for projects already in design. As a result, Pine Ridge Estates Phase 3 may proceed with engineered on lot wastewater systems and private wells in place of connections to public sewer and water infrastructure. Taylor Reeves of Stantec, representing the applicant, informed the commission that individual well and septic designs are complete. The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control has received the septic applications. The developer, NVR, stated that each engineered septic system, including required fill material, carries an approximate cost of 30,000 dollars. Private wells are estimated to cost between 8,000 and 9,000 dollars per lot with an approximate depth of 330 feet.
Staff also noted that several public improvements must be completed or secured before the final plat stage. A westbound right turn lane on Highway 17A must reach substantial completion prior to final plat approval. The developer must also secure necessary permissions for improvements to Palmer Road where required to support secondary emergency access. Staff recommended that the final plat review confirm dedication and maintenance responsibilities for ponds and wetlands. In addition, amenities such as the pool and clubhouse must obtain site plan approval and building permits before the county issues home construction permits.
The commission approved the preliminary plan by voice vote. Staff will continue coordinating with the applicant on outstanding permits, infrastructure requirements and compliance items before the final plat is reviewed.