Bastrop City Council discusses new minimum lot size regulations to curb dense development

The Bastrop Planning & Zoning Commission meeting on February 17, 2025, spotlighted a significant amendment aimed at establishing minimum lot sizes in residential areas, a move designed to curb dense development and enhance community planning. Currently, Bastrop has no minimum lot size regulations, allowing for the potential subdivision of lots into very small parcels, which has raised concerns about overcrowding and inadequate infrastructure.

The proposed changes would set a minimum lot size of one acre in the P2 residential areas and 0.33 acres in the P3 zones. This initiative seeks to align new developments with the existing built environment, ensuring that growth is manageable and sustainable. The discussion highlighted the challenges posed by the absence of minimum lot sizes, particularly in the Bridal District, where increased impervious cover from dense construction could exacerbate drainage issues.

Commission members emphasized the importance of maintaining the character of neighborhoods while addressing the need for affordable housing. They reassured residents that existing smaller lots would be grandfathered in under the new regulations, and alternative housing solutions, such as accessory dwelling units, would still be permitted.

The meeting also touched on the broader implications of these changes, including the need for a comprehensive drainage plan, which is projected to cost over $100 million. The commission aims to prevent future flooding and infrastructure strain by controlling development density.

As the city grapples with growth, the proposed minimum lot size amendment represents a proactive step towards sustainable urban planning, balancing development needs with community preservation. The commission will continue to refine these proposals, ensuring that Bastrop's growth remains both responsible and reflective of its unique character.