Plan commission recommends lot split to allow individual ownership of duplex units at 310 Schweitzer Drive

The Verona Plan Commission on Aug. 4 recommended that the Common Council approve a certified survey map to divide the existing lot at 310 Schweitzer Drive into two separate lots so each side of an existing duplex may be owned individually.

Planning staff explained the property currently contains a duplex and that the proposed lot split would place the new lot line along the shared wall. Staff said a zero‑foot setback is allowed when a property line divides attached buildings and that the split would not create a nonconforming building. To ensure long‑term maintenance of shared structures, staff recommended that a shared‑wall agreement be recorded with the Dane County Register of Deeds as a condition of approval.

Commissioner Powers moved the commission’s recommendation and Commissioner Harrison seconded. Commissioners asked whether any carve‑outs were required related to an existing garage that does not meet modern standards; staff clarified the nonconforming condition would remain unchanged by the lot split and noted a rebuilding limitation if 50% or more of the structure is damaged.

The commission voted by voice to forward its recommendation to the Common Council with the condition that a shared‑wall agreement be recorded; no no votes were recorded.

The recording of a shared‑wall agreement is a condition intended to provide legal assurances about maintenance of common structural elements and is consistent with past practice, staff said. The Common Council will consider the certified survey map at its next meeting.