Commission approves Nelson Grove Plat A, permits two flag lots with sidewalk and drainage conditions

The Pleasant Grove Planning Commission on Sept. 25 approved Nelson Grove Plat A, a three‑lot preliminary subdivision for applicant Denny Farnsworth at approximately 855 East 500 North in the R‑1‑9 single‑family residential zone. Staff reported the proposed layout — two flag lots plus a fronting lot — meets the R‑1‑9 minimums, and commissioners carried a motion to forward approval to city council with standard final technical conditions. Why it matters: the approval clears the preliminary land‑use hurdle for subdividing roughly 1.07 acres into three single‑family parcels in an area with mixed R‑1‑9, R‑1‑12 and R‑1‑20 zoning nearby. Planning Department representative Jacob Hawkins explained that the R‑1‑9 zone requires a 9,000 square‑foot minimum for standard lots and 13,500 square feet for flag lots (including the stem) in this proposal, and an 85‑foot minimum lot width along the narrowest dimension. Staff said both flag lots in the proposal meet the required dimensions and engineering standards following a September 16 staff review and recommended approval. Commissioners asked about driveway spacing, sidewalk installation and runoff. Hawkins said the design combines two access points where appropriate and that the site will include sidewalk on the frontage where curbing already exists. He said a five‑foot planter strip and a downhill cross‑section will carry drainage toward the street and existing creek infrastructure so on‑site drainage will be maintained; the commission also discussed a turnaround requirement for a long stem. Commissioners queried whether an existing front house would remain; staff said the front house will stay and another structure on the site likely will be demolished to make room for the new lot. The motion to approve the preliminary plat was made by Commissioner Butler, seconded by Commissioner Nelson, and carried. Next steps: the applicant must complete final engineering and satisfy planning, engineering and fire requirements before recording the plat and beginning construction.