Planning commission endorses broad zoning and subdivision changes, including smoke-shop restrictions, larger accessory buildings and updated sign rules

The Hendersonville Planning Commission unanimously recommended comprehensive revisions to the city's zoning ordinance and later approved proposed updates to subdivision regulations, including a staff-supported amendment to raise lot-compatibility thresholds to 100%.

Planning staff described a wide-ranging package of draft zoning changes intended to clarify language, close loopholes and add new rules for modern issues such as electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and vape/smoke shops. Staff also proposed modest increases in allowable sizes for residential accessory buildings and adjustments to design standards for the Dockside neighborhood.

Key changes described by staff

Planning Director Keith Free and staff walked commissioners through the principal amendments. Among the items highlighted: - Smoke and vape shops: Defined as a distinct use and made subject to conditional-use permit requirements in specified commercial zones; new separation rules prohibit locating such shops within 1,000 feet (measured property-line to property-line along the street) of schools, day-care centers, parks, churches or other places where children gather. Existing businesses are…