Zionsville BZA approves Peters family two‑lot minor subdivision special exception

The Town of Zionsville Board of Zoning Appeals on Jan. 7 approved petition 202543SE, a special exception to allow a two‑lot minor residential subdivision at 345 South 775 East.

Staff told the board the parcel is 6.3 acres in the rural agricultural zoning district and that the three findings required for a special exception were met: (1) the proposed use would not injure public health, safety or welfare; (2) it would not adversely affect adjacent properties; and (3) it is consistent with the district character and the comprehensive plan’s allowances for limited residential development on well and septic.

Trevor and Natalie Peters, the petitioners, said they plan two single‑family residences—one for their family and one for a family member—and emphasized shared drive access and efforts to preserve the area’s rural character. Neighbors, including Dan Seiler, raised concerns about precedent, shared‑drive maintenance, and incremental subdivision changing the character of the agricultural district.

Board discussion focused on whether approval would set a precedent for future subdivision in the area and on the plan commission and platting steps that follow a favorable BZA decision. Several members said the proposal was consistent with surrounding single‑family residences and that required plan commission review and administrative platting steps would provide additional oversight.

A motion to approve the special exception was moved and seconded and passed by roll call with three ayes and one nay; the board approved 202543SE, allowing the Peters to proceed to the plan commission docketing and subsequent administrative plat procedures.

If plan commission and secondary plat approvals follow, the petitioners must satisfy subdivision plat requirements (including sidewalk waivers or bonds if requested) before recording the subdivision with the county.