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Bluff building department updates commission on projects, site plans and possible septic rule change
Summary
Building staff reported ongoing construction projects and said they are working with San Juan County health officials to allow septic approvals on lots down to 0.4 acres with required preapprovals; staff also clarified site‑plan requirements and where larger energy projects need area plans and easements.
Kristen Bushnell, representing the Town of Bluff building department, updated the Planning & Zoning Commission on construction activity and ordinance implementation at the Dec. 4 meeting.
Bushnell listed projects undergoing inspections and two new starts: the Hansen residence and an extensive Bluff dwelling solar installation that will raise panels high enough to allow parking beneath. She warned neighbors to expect large footings and potential crane work during construction.
On septic policy, Bushnell said she and Dennis Shumway from the county health department are drafting documents to permit septic systems on lots as small as 0.4 acres. "We are drafting documents, so that we can go down to 0.4 acres as per San Juan County health board," she told the commission, while noting the change must go to council and the county board of health and commissioners for approval.
Bushnell described site‑plan expectations for routine residential projects—setbacks, easements, driveway access, utility connections and square‑footage calculations—and explained that larger commercial or energy projects may require area plans and additional documentation for easements and cross‑property utility lines.
She also noted that some building‑department forms were temporarily missing from the town website and asked staff to ensure contact information is current so applicants can request applications directly from the department.
Next steps: staff will continue to coordinate with county health on the septic proposal and will prepare updated forms and clearer website links for building permits and site plans.
