Buncombe County Planning Board Reviews Special Use Permit for New Residential Project

The Buncombe County Board of Adjustment convened on August 13, 2025, to discuss a proposed project that included a special use permit and a level 1 planned unit development. The meeting featured detailed presentations from project representatives, focusing on site layout, stormwater management, and compliance with local zoning ordinances.

The session began with the introduction of an affidavit by a project representative, confirming its authenticity and relevance to the project standards outlined in the Buncombe County zoning ordinance. The board admitted the affidavit as applicant's exhibit 2, alongside a curriculum vitae as exhibit 1.

A preliminary soils evaluation report was presented, which indicated suitable soil conditions for septic systems on the site. The representative emphasized that this information allowed for flexible site planning, prioritizing the preservation of existing woodlands while ensuring effective stormwater management. The project aims to qualify as a low-density stormwater management initiative, utilizing roadside swales for runoff collection.

Discussions included the strategic placement of access roads, designed to minimize tree removal and enhance stormwater management. The proposed road layout features a non-traditional roundabout and culverts, contributing to both functionality and aesthetics. The representative confirmed that water service would be provided by the City of Asheville.

The board inquired about the project's design specifics, including the distance between structures and the height of buildings, which will be single-story and under 20 feet tall. The representative reiterated that the project complies with the Buncombe County zoning ordinance for both the special use permit and the planned unit development.

A notable point of discussion was the absence of sidewalks in the project design. The representative explained that sidewalks were not considered a goal for the project, prompting questions from board members regarding pedestrian access.

The meeting concluded with the board's acknowledgment of the project's alignment with zoning requirements, setting the stage for further deliberations on the proposal. The next steps will involve continued review and potential approval of the project as it moves forward in the planning process.