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Wasatch County adopts code change requiring 30% open space for variable-lot developments in RA‑1 zone
Summary
The county council approved a text amendment to RA‑1 zoning to reclassify the 5→1 acre option as a "bonus density," require 30% dedicated open space for variable‑lot subdivisions and give the council discretionary review when civic uses are proposed in place of open space.
At second reading the Wasatch County Council approved amendments to county land‑use code (changes to 16.08/16.27) tightening how "variable lot size" developments operate in the RA‑1 zone. Planning staff explained the change aligns code text with the general plan's existing policy that variable‑lot developments should protect natural features and provide a minimum of 30% open space.
The ordinance clarifies that reductions to lot size (for example, from a 5‑acre base to 1‑acre lots) are a discretionary bonus density conditioned on connecting to public sewer and water. The amendment explicitly requires 30% open space for projects using the variable‑lot option; if a developer proposes a civic use (a school, park or fire station) in lieu of open space, the council retains discretion to approve that substitution after a legislative review.
Staff said the change was driven by cases where the previous regulation's language permitted denser private parcels without meeting the general‑plan intent to preserve open area and sensitive features. The amendment aims to close that loophole and make the requirement explicit.
The planning commission had recommended a set of edits discussed at the hearing; councilmembers debated whether to keep certain small/large‑scale density distinctions but ultimately approved the amendment on recorded vote (6–1). Supporters said the amendment restores the policy balance between development flexibility and open‑space preservation; the lone dissenting vote raised concerns about uniform density effects for very small developments.
The code changes take effect per the standard adoption schedule; staff and planning will incorporate the revised language into permit and application guidance and advise developers to consult early with planning if they seek bonus density.
