Planning commission approves variance to recognize four longtime homes on Terrazas Lane

The Santa Fe County Planning Commission voted to approve a density and setback variance for case 255290, allowing a four‑lot subdivision of a 0.684‑acre parcel at 262 Terrazas Lane in the Village of Agua Fria overlay. Staff recommended adopting the sustainable land development hearing officer’s recommended order, and the motion to approve passed by voice vote.

Destiny Romero, building and development review specialist, told the commission that the property currently contains four dwelling units (one structure divided by a common wall), that three units are connected to the public sewer and one uses a septic system, and that an aerial map from 1978 documents existing structures predating later codes. Romero said the hearing officer recommended approval and listed minimum conditions for any approval.

Applicant Catherine Baca testified she has lived on Terrazas Lane for more than 50 years, described historical building permits and reassessments, and said the condominium-association status has become burdensome for heirs and owners. Baca said no physical changes are proposed, that she is prepared to connect to sewer service, and that owners support the application; she presented letters of support and explained the hardship created by the unrecognized lot status.

Commission discussion focused on lot layout, water and sewer connections, and whether separation/fire-code issues for the common wall would need to be addressed through state building requirements. Commissioners noted the staff condition that accessory dwelling units not be allowed on the newly formed lots (a staff typo was corrected to apply the restriction to all four lots). With the friendly amendment applied, the commission approved the variance with staff recommendations.