County Council Denies Land Use Change for 1 Acre Rural Residential Development

In a recent meeting held on July 17, 2025, the Volusia County Planning and Land Development Regulation Commission (PLDRC) discussed a significant case involving a proposed change in land use and zoning for a 1.01-acre wooded lot. The applicant sought to amend the land use designation from Agricultural Resource to Rural, alongside a rezoning request from Prime Agriculture to Rural Residential. This dual request aims to facilitate the development of a single-family home on the property.

The project, which had previously been presented in May, underwent revisions to align with the county's regulations. The new request reflects a shift from a more intense urban low-density designation to a rural classification, which is less dense and more in line with the surrounding area. However, the staff's recommendation leaned towards denial, citing concerns about the proposal's inconsistency with existing land use patterns and the potential for creating an isolated parcel.

During the meeting, staff highlighted that while the proposed change could allow for one unit per acre under certain conditions, the site did not meet all necessary criteria. Specifically, it lacked adjacency to urban land use, which is crucial for justifying the density. The area is also subject to environmental regulations due to its location within a Natural Resource Management Area, requiring a 50-foot buffer from wetlands, further complicating the development potential.

Commission members raised questions regarding the buildability of the site, particularly in light of environmental constraints. One member expressed the need for a clearer understanding of the topography and wetland boundaries to assess the feasibility of construction. The discussion underscored the complexities involved in balancing development interests with environmental protections.

Ultimately, the staff's recommendation to forward the case to the County Council with a final action of denial reflects a cautious approach to land use planning in the region. As the commission deliberates on these matters, the implications of their decisions will resonate throughout the community, shaping the future landscape of Volusia County.