Oconee County has established a program to designate roads of special scenic, cultural and historic value as County Scenic Highways.  The program is coordinated by the Scenic Highway Committee, who reviews proposals and recommends designations to County Council.  County designation is independent of any similar designation by the state or federal government.  Groups interested in sponsoring a road for consideration should contact the Planning Department for more information.

Any organization desiring to adopt a highway as part of the County Scenic Highway designation process should submit the following information to the Planning Department to be reviewed by the Scenic Highway Committee.

    A scenic highway corridor plan shall include the following components: 

1. A detailed description of the section of the road or highway to be designated, including two or more of the intrinsic qualities as defined in this article. Specify how the road in question fits the criteria. Identify any problem areas that may impact the scenic designation.
2. A marked map clearly indicating the section of the road or highway the applicant is proposing for designation.
3. Photographs or videos of areas which the applicant considers to be of intrinsic value or significance.
4. Letters of support from citizens, businesses, civic groups and other organizations.
5. A maintenance plan outlining proposed litter collection activities.
6. Any additional proposed actions intended to enhance and maintain the highway if awarded designated.

Intrinsic qualities means those significant tangible and intangible resources found within a scenic corridor that are known to be distinct within the region. "Intrinsic qualities" include:

1. Scenic: The composition of features that are regionally representative, associative or inspirational. These features are memorable, distinct, visually impressive, and continuous across the view.
2. Historic: Landscapes and structures that educate and stir an appreciation for the legacy of Oconee County's past.
3. Cultural: Activities or objects that represent unique and distinctive expressions of community life, customs or traditional ways and identify a place, region or culture.
4. Recreational: Passive and active leisure activities directly dependant on the scenic qualities of the area and usually associated with outdoor recreation as we seek to refresh and renew our spirits.
5. Natural: Relatively undisturbed and visually pleasing natural areas and/or ecologically sensitive landscapes representing natural occurrences including landforms, water, vegetation and wildlife characteristics.
6. Archaeological: Sites, artifacts or structures recognized by the scientific or academic communities as being representative of past human life and activities.