Scott County commissioners approve ordinance to allow 1-acre lots with reduced frontage and new setbacks

Scott County commissioners voted 2-1 Sept. 17 to amend parts of the county zoning ordinance to allow one-acre residential lots in areas zoned A-1 and to reduce minimum road frontage and certain setbacks.

The ordinance change—recommended by the county planning commission—lowers the minimum lot size from two acres to one acre in applicable residential areas, sets minimum road frontage at 100 feet, and specifies setbacks of 10 feet from property sides, 30 feet from the rear and 55 feet from the road (measured from the centerline), according to staff presentation at the hearing.

The amendment drew a lengthy public hearing in which residents expressed both support and concern. David Sean Grant, a resident who said he bought a five-acre farm three years ago, told the commissioners, “I’m in favor of it,” saying smaller lots would let family members build nearby. Several farmers and long-time residents spoke against the changes, citing worries about rising land prices, denser development and impacts to rural character.

Tim Bruner, who identified himself as the county health department official responsible for septic permits, told the board that…