Commission reduces minimum PUD parcel size, reversing prior change amid concerns about unincorporated parcels

The Deltona City Commission voted 4-3 to amend the zoning code to reduce the minimum parcel size required to establish a Planned Unit Development (PUD), restoring greater flexibility for smaller commercial infill and properties that must annex to access city utilities.

Staff explained the change addresses an “unintended consequence” of a prior ordinance that had increased the PUD minimum to five acres; that threshold left many developable parcels in the city’s joint planning area ineligible for the PUD process. Planning staff said the amendment preserves the PUD process as a tool for coordinated corridor development while allowing smaller parcels to use the PUD mechanism.

During discussion, several residents and speakers urged caution: some argued that lowering the threshold citywide could increase density and affect stormwater and traffic capacity in older neighborhoods. Commissioner Dory Howington asked whether the city could instead create a targeted variance or case‑by‑case process for affected lots; staff said they would need more time to evaluate whether a specific variance route could be added to the code.

Commissioner Emma Santiago moved to approve ordinance 34‑2025; Vice Mayor Harriet seconded. The commission adopted the amendment and staff said it would return with implementation details and process clarifications as needed.

Supporters said the change corrects an administrative problem that had blocked access to the PUD process for property owners in the joint planning area; critics said it risked encouraging higher densities in parts of the city that now face chronic stormwater problems.

The ordinance passed on final reading by a 4‑3 vote.