Planning commission backs amendment to subdivision code to allow deeper, buildable lots

The Lindon Planning Commission voted June 9 to recommend that the city council approve an amendment to the subdivision ordinance that would remove an old restriction prohibiting lots more than three times as long as they are wide. Community Development Director Michael told the commission staff instead proposes using a buildable‑area standard that defers to existing zoning rules for minimum frontage, width and setbacks.

"What most cities have gone to is just complying with what your zoning ordinance says," Michael said, explaining that minimum frontage and setbacks would determine whether a long, narrow lot is buildable. He added that the existing 100‑foot minimum frontage requirement for residential zones would remain unchanged: "We have a 100 foot minimum. We're not changing that."

Staff said the change would help make certain irregular or deep parcels developable where they otherwise meet minimum width and buildable‑area tests. The proposed amendment would apply to both residential and commercial districts, with commercial lots subject to additional buildable‑area review tied to setbacks, easements and parking requirements.

The commission opened and closed a public hearing with no public speakers and voted to recommend ordinance amendment 2026‑12‑O to city council. Commissioners said the change reflects current practice in other cities and provides flexibility while requiring demonstration that lots are buildable under applicable zoning standards.

Next steps: the Planning Commission’s recommendation will be forwarded to the Lindon City Council for final consideration.