Low Density Zoning Will Save Our Space (sos)

Density by itself isn't the problem. I don't have a problem with small lots if they have small houses on them. If 30a was still beach cottages instead of mega houses, we'd be just fine.

Wouldn't having realistic parking requirements be a way to easily limit house size? Just because an area is designated for parking doesn't mean it has to be paved, but it does mean you can't build on it.

I do think all preservation buyouts should stop. That is an easy solution that doesn't require any legal changes.

Not sure if we can stop the runaway train but should try. Certainly can insist on low lighting, no new signage, utilities clean up their act, etc.

Just look at all the projects submitted that want a variance in the set back size.

How many of those have been denied? (None)

Density by itself isn't the problem. I don't have a problem with small lots if they have small houses on them. If 30a was still beach cottages instead of mega houses, we'd be just fine.

Wouldn't having realistic parking requirements be a way to easily limit house size? Just because an area is designated for parking doesn't mean it has to be paved, but it does mean you can't build on it.

I do think all preservation buyouts should stop. That is an easy solution that doesn't require any legal changes.

What is a preservation buyout? Not familiar with the term. Thanks!

There is a set space for natural things; shrubs, trees, etc.

It there is a requirement for a 15 foot environmental buffer on the sides and rear of a property, it's very common to request a variance and mimize that to 5 feet.

Additionally, no one monitors this so it is frequently abused.

I'm sure someone can give a more professional description.

Good question. People need to know.

Everyone views their circumstances as special and wants to avoid conforming to the Land development code. Just look at the Scenic 30-A corridor setback requirements. Twenty feet of landscaped setback on the south side of 30-A for commercial property. That would really help if developments conformed. Once the BCC grants a variance that becomes the new normal for everyone else.

What is a preservation buyout? Not familiar with the term. Thanks!

Many large properties in Sowal have preservation requirements to preserve certain habitats and land types. The BCC may at their discretion (but is not required to) allow them to pay a fee and develop up to 50% of that preservation space. That is referred to as a preservation buyout.

The fee is ridiculously low and the developers often ignore the purpose of the preservation, by scattering it around the lot in small separated bits or in the setbacks at the edges. Not granting preservation buyouts is an easy way to reduce overbuilding and help with the stormwater issues.