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Walton County Zoning Board approves variance for Real Estate Equities lot split
Summary
The Walton County Zoning Board of Adjustments approved a variance allowing a proposed lot split for a six-acre parcel to rely on a recorded 30-foot easement for access instead of abutting a public road. Staff supported the request and the board voted to approve the variance.
Walton County Zoning Board of Adjustments on Aug. 28 approved a variance requested by Real Estate Equities Limited LLC that allows a proposed lot split of a six‑acre parcel to rely on a recorded 30‑foot easement for access instead of requiring each new lot to abut a public or private street.
The variance was approved after the applicant’s attorney, Michael Henry of Dunlop & Shipman, presented a binder of exhibits and asked the board to admit them into evidence. Melissa Ward, AICP, certified planner with Dunlap & Shipman, described the parcel and the lot‑split plan. She said the parcel contains two existing homes built in 1974 and 1975 and that the proposal would divide the parcel into a 3.5‑acre lot and a 2.5‑acre lot. Ward and the applicant said a recorded 30‑foot easement, included in the exhibits, provides access to the properties.
Steven Shone, planning staff, told the board the staff report finds the requested variance "appears to satisfy the minimum requirements" of the Land Development Code unless evidence to the contrary is presented. Board discussion noted that moving a public road to meet the county’s abutment requirement would require negotiating for privately conserved land and was not practical.
The board voted to approve the variance. Chair and board members called for the motion and the approval carried by voice vote.
Why it matters: The approval lets the landowner proceed with a lot split without building or relocating a public road, relying instead on an existing recorded access easement. County staff said the easement serves the two longstanding home sites and that approving the variance would not place a new burden on that access.
The staff report and applicant exhibits were entered into the record at the hearing. The board noted the parcel’s access crosses an existing wetland setback but planning staff said an infrastructure crossing in that location would be allowed under current practice.
The board did not identify any outstanding conditions beyond the variance approval at the meeting. The applicant may proceed with whatever county permitting and recording steps are required following board approval.
