Zoning change cuts minimum lot size
A recently passed resolution will allow for smaller lots in areas with sewer and water service.
The Anderson County Commission approved the change to the zoning regulations during its Monday, July 21, meeting.
The resolution states that regarding minimum lot sizes, if multiple zoning rules apply, the less-restrictive rules can outweigh more-restrictive ones. However, on other issues, the more-restrictive rules would still take precedence.
Lisa Crowley, clerk for Anderson County Planning and Development, told The Courier News the change means that in many zones, including the A1 and A2 agricultural zones and R1 and R2 residential zones, the minimum lot size may be 7,500 square feet if water and sewer services are available.
Under previous interpretations, the minimum would have been 22,000 square feet.
Planning Commissioner Harold Edwards told commissioners that the change would help developers “take advantage” of areas with water and sewer services outside of towns.
He said there were not many such areas, but in those that existed, smaller lots would be less expensive for homeowners.
“We really need to encourage higher-density development where it can go with the infrastructure,” he said.
Crowley said there are no upcoming developments the new interpretation could benefit that she could share at this time.
Commissioner Sabra Beauchamp made the motion, and Commissioner Ebony Capshaw seconded it.
In a voice vote, Commissioner Shelly Vandagriff cast the only audible “no” vote.
