Wicomico County Public Schools | EFMP FY2026 WICOMICO COUNTY The Wicomico County Department of Planning, Zoning & Community Development tracks development activity provided for this analysis. The figures presented in Figure 1 are based on the unincorporated areas (outside of the municipalities). Residential development patterns are a primary indicator of community growth. Figure 1 indicates that the total number of major subdivision approved lots and plats has remained relatively stable over the past couple years. Note major subdivision is defined as the recording of more than seven (7) lots and does not provide the full picture of residential development activity as minor subdivision activity can add to growth seen in the region. Figure 2 indicates that the total number of approved building permits in 2024 in the County (97) were over double 2023; not stable but a dramatic increase. With the exception of the City of Salisbury with 160, municipal building permits remain low (32 total). In Wicomico County prior to 2007, these numbers were much higher and the majority of the time there was an opposite trend between lots approved and permits issued. With the global economic downturn in late 2007, the trends crossed. Although construction slowed there were still lots being established for potential home construction. The trend has been a reduction in plats and lots approved. This can be tied to the economic downturn, new stormwater management regulations in 2010, State planning law (Septic Bill in 2012), as well as development occurring in incorporated jurisdictions with existing sewer. 1 Major Subdivision 27 Lots 10 Minor Subdivisions 15 Lots Figure 2 28 0 4 0 0 18 2 1 0 0 1 2 1 1 0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 3.5 4 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 TOTAL LOTS & PLATS (10 Year Development - Major Subdivisions ONLY) Lots Plats Figure 1 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 Bldg Pertmits 333 228 122 59 36 43 43 48 59 63 60 58 89 68 64 79 59 65 46 97 0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 BUILDING PERMITS (Wicomico County - 20 Year Development) 106
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