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Zoning Guide

Georgetown, Delaware Zoning & Land Use Guide

Last updated: Verified:

Key Zoning Facts

Building Code Edition
Delaware State Fire Prevention Code (references IBC/IRC)
ADUs Allowed
No
Primary District
Информация не найдена — Zoning districts — see municipal code (Chapter 230)
Max Height
Информация не найдена — уточняйте в планировочном отделе города

Georgetown, Delaware Zoning Overview

Georgetown is an incorporated town and the county seat of Sussex County, with a population of approximately 7,200 (2020 Census). Located in the heart of Delaware's agricultural and coastal south, Georgetown serves as the governmental and commercial hub of Sussex County. Zoning within town limits is administered by the Town of Georgetown Planning & Community Development Department.

Important: Georgetown is an incorporated town with its own planning jurisdiction. The Sussex County Planning & Zoning office (302) 855-7878 governs only unincorporated areas of Sussex County — it does not govern properties within Georgetown's town limits.

Zoning Districts

Georgetown's zoning districts are established in Chapter 230 of the town code, available on eCode360 at ecode360.com/GE1544.

Информация не найдена — уточняйте в планировочном отделе города. Specific district codes, setback dimensions, and lot size requirements were not independently verified in this guide. Consult the town code or contact Planning at (302) 856-7391.

ADU Rules

Delaware has no statewide ADU law. ADU permissibility in Georgetown is governed by the town's local zoning ordinance (Chapter 230). Contact Planning at (302) 856-7391.

Development Process

  1. Zoning Verification — Confirm whether your property is within Georgetown town limits; if so, contact the town planning department at (302) 856-7391
  2. Site Plan Review — Required for commercial and multi-family projects
  3. Building Permit — Apply through the town's planning department
  4. Inspections — Schedule required inspections
  5. Certificate of Occupancy — Obtain before occupancy

Key Considerations

  • Confirm whether your property is within Georgetown town limits or in unincorporated Sussex County — these have different zoning authorities
  • Check for flood zones using FEMA's flood map service
  • Georgetown's position as the county seat means some state and county offices are located in town but do not regulate Georgetown's own land use

Disclaimer: This guide provides general information about zoning in Georgetown, Delaware and should not be relied upon as legal advice. Always verify current regulations with the Town of Georgetown before making development decisions.

Regulatory Layers That Apply in Georgetown

Your property is subject to ALL of these regulatory layers. Each one can impose additional requirements beyond the others.

Federal

State — Delaware

  • Building Code: Delaware State Fire Prevention Code (references IBC/IRC)
View Delaware zoning overview

County — Sussex County

  • Role: Sussex County governs unincorporated areas of the county. Georgetown is an incorporated town with its own zoning jurisdiction. Sussex County Planning & Zoning (for unincorporated areas): https://sussexcountyde.gov/planning-zoning, (302) 855-7878.

City / Municipal

The city's zoning ordinance, building codes, and local permits form the primary layer of land-use regulation for your property.

Overlay Districts

No overlay districts identified.

Private Restrictions

  • HOA / CC&Rs common: No
  • Check deed restrictions for additional requirements.

Primary Zoning Districts

Информация не найденаZoning districts — see municipal code (Chapter 230)
Min Lot
Информация не найдена — уточняйте в планировочном отделе города
Max Height
Информация не найдена — уточняйте в планировочном отделе города
Front Setback
Информация не найдена — уточняйте в планировочном отделе города
Side Setback
Информация не найдена — уточняйте в планировочном отделе города
Rear Setback
Информация не найдена — уточняйте в планировочном отделе города

ADU Rules in Georgetown

ADUs:Not Allowed

Permit Costs & Timelines

Permit Costs & Timelines

Specific permit fee schedules for Georgetown are available from the local planning department. Fees vary based on project type, scope, and valuation.

Check Georgetown permit fees →

Official Sources

Town of Georgetown Planning Departmentgeorgetowndel.comOfficial sourceGeorgetown Zoning Mapgeorgetowndel.comOfficial sourceGeorgetown Code of Ordinances (eCode360)ecode360.comOfficial source

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find the zoning for my property in Georgetown?
View the official Georgetown zoning map at https://www.georgetowndel.com/planning-department/Town-of-Georgetown-Zoning-Map.htm or contact the Planning Department at (302) 856-7391. The town code is on eCode360 at https://ecode360.com/GE1544.
What is the phone number for Georgetown's Planning Department?
Town of Georgetown Planning & Community Development: (302) 856-7391. Town Hall is at 37 The Circle, Georgetown, DE 19947.
Is Georgetown's planning department the same as Sussex County's?
No. Georgetown is an incorporated town with its own planning department. Sussex County Planning & Zoning governs only unincorporated areas of Sussex County, not land within Georgetown's town limits. Contact the Town of Georgetown directly at (302) 856-7391.