Commission approves rezoning of 5-acre tract on G. Lanier Road to RR-1.5 (Project 2024-1206)

The Bryan County Planning and Zoning Commission approved rezoning a 5-acre tract on G. Lanier Road from A5 Agricultural to RR-1.5, a lower-density residential designation.

Staff presentation noted the parcel sits in a low-density residential character area near the county’s northern border and that “this request to go to the RR 1.5 could potentially have up to 3 lots, if he further subdivide it,” though the applicant has proposed two lots. Staff said the RR-1.5 request limits development to one dwelling per acre due to lack of infrastructure and recommended approval as consistent with the comprehensive plan.

The applicant was not present; staff said the applicant seeks to subdivide the property for family members and that the concept shows two tracts now but could be subdivided into a third tract under the requested zoning. Commissioners asked about enforcement and whether approvals previously granted in other cases later changed; staff described the checks the county performs during minor plat and building-permit review, saying “all that's checked administratively when he goes to apply for his minor plat.” Staff added that the county requires demonstration of septic approvals and well capacity and noted access-easement rules limit the number of lots served by a non-fronting easement.

A commissioner asked whether the UDO allows access to two lots without road frontage; staff clarified the UDO “gives you access to 2 lots that don't abut a public road, so you could have 3 total.” The commission closed the public hearing and approved the rezoning by voice vote; no roll-call tally was recorded in the meeting transcript.

Next steps for the applicant include minor-plat submittal and showing septic and well approvals during permitting; staff indicated lot access and spacing requirements will also apply.