Savannah, GA, has just launched its next-generation enCodePlus-powered website that features easy access to their Code of Ordinances and new Zoning Ordinance.

Feb 19, 2020

Like other progressive communities, Savannah recognized the unmatched benefits and advantages of the enCodePlus technology. They embraced the most robust, advanced tool available in zoning management and the code publishing and codification industries.

The City of Savannah, GA, has just launched its next-generation enCodePlus-powered website that features easy access to their Code of Ordinances and new Zoning Ordinance.

The fastest-growing company in the municipal planning software industry, enCodePlus, offers what no one else can - a completely integrated, cloud-based code-publishing tool with advanced interactive features and streamlined editing capabilities. It is increasingly becoming the code-publishing platform of choice for cities like Savannah, as well as Las Vegas, NV; Overland Park, KS; Redmond, WA; West Sacramento, CA; and many others.

The City of Savannah’s Challenge

Savannah’s previous code was established in the 1960’s, and their method of codification had become outmoded. Like many municipalities, they spent years updating their code with paper supplements adding to thick binders that became increasingly voluminous with every new addition and version of their code.

The City had put hundreds of hours into developing and adopting their new Zoning Ordinance in late 2019, a major new update of the 1960 ordinance. This monumental effort mandated a new system that would efficiently and effectively support its implementation well into the future. They knew that ultimately, this would save valuable staff time and money, while better serving their community.

The enCodePlus Solution

For more and more technologically savvy communities, enCodePlus represents a whole new way of doing things. It delivers the modern features and capabilities municipalities and their citizens and development applicants demand in an efficient, effective manner.

enCodePlus’ Differentiating Features

Eliminating cumbersome and confusing editing practices, integrating diverse systems, and streamlining processes saves time and money. enCodePlus offers:

· collaborative drafting, commenting, and editing;

· immediate, paperless updates;

· automated, searchable archives;

· exportable, printable, and downloadable documents;

· customized, branded, and completely user-friendly website;

· fully integrated GIS system; and

· interactive tools, features, and resources that aid in zoning administration.

Explore the City of Savannah Code of Ordinances Website here.

Highlights from City of Savannah Code of Ordinances Website

Code of Ordinances

Savannah’s entire Code of Ordinances is publicly accessible from a single page. Searchers can view the entire library of City ordinances, the charter and all related laws, and information on various programs and resources. With real-time editing, collaborating and publishing capabilities, content is always up to date, and interactive tools like links to related documents and roll-over definitions help support easy access.

Zoning Ordinance

The Zoning Ordinance can be directly accessed via a dedicated page. Content can easily be printed, exported or shared. Navigation is intuitive and relevant content is just a click away. Features include graphics and tables to help illustrate key information and links between the zoning text and map.

The search mechanism allows a visitor to comb the entire Code of Ordinances for information, offering options to narrow the search by various categories and dates.

Quick Reference

The Quick Reference section includes links to relevant sites like the Metropolitan Planning Commission and Chatham County, as well as links to important documents like the Savannah Comprehensive Plan and the Chatham Community Blueprint.

Quick Tables

A navigable library of tables includes: Required Public Notice for Applications, Principal Uses, Development Standards, Signs, and Parking. Each is itself interactive, featuring roll-over definitions and links to related documents and codes.

Maps

The Maps section of the site features a fully-integrated GIS system. Properties can be searched by location or use, and dynamic links and tools offer a complete, 360-degree view of rules and regulations associated with any property.

Calculators

Users can instantly access development calculators to determine requirements for fees, buffers, development standards, signs, and parking.

Land Use Lookup

The Land Use Lookup tool allows a visitor to discover the districts, standards and conditions associated with any land use (e.g., Category: Commercial and Land Use: Brewery, Micro).