Understanding Annexation
What is Annexation?
Annexation is the legal process of adding land to a town or city. The process extends the town ' s borders to include more property and provide town services to residents in return.
How It Works in Bluffton
1.
The property owner must submit a petition asking to join Bluffton.
2. The property must touch current Town limits by land or water( i. e., contiguous).
3. Town Council must vote to approve the request.
4. Once approved, the property becomes part of Bluffton and receives Town services.
DID YOU KNOW?
By South Carolina law, the Town of Bluffton is prohibited from initiating discussions with property owners about annexation. The process must be started by the property owners themselves.
AM I IN BLUFFTON?
Have you ever wondered why some neighborhoods are not part of the Town of Bluffton?
Bluffton ' s growth from one square mile to 54 square miles happened through annexation, creating a patchwork of Town boundaries.
How to Check An Address: 1. Visit townofbluffton. sc. gov 2. Click on " Map Gallery " 3. Find the " Am I In Bluffton " map 4. Enter the address in the search bar
You can call Town Hall at 843-706-4500 if you need help determining if a property is within Town limits.
Benefits of Being in Town Limits
1. Police services from Bluffton Police Department
2. Voting for Mayor and Town Council
3. Parks and recreation services
4. Trash and recycling services
5. Participation in Town events and programs
6. A voice in Bluffton ' s future
What the Town Can and Cannot Control
The Town can control: The Town cannot control:
Development rules within Town limits When developers choose to build( even
Standards for protecting trees and after agreements are signed) natural resources Land outside Town limits
Requirements for parks and open spaces Market forces that drive growth
Design standards for buildings
Responsibilities of other agencies( schools, county roads, water service)
WE’ RE HERE TO HELP( 843) 706-4500 townofbluffton. sc. gov 5