Commission backs zoning-code amendments to simplify density and allow xeriscaping

Planning staff proposed multiple amendments to Vernal’s Municipal Planning and Zoning Code on April 14 designed to simplify density calculations, clarify terminology and update landscaping and parking standards.

Assistant City Manager Braeden Christofferson said staff’s goal was to reduce complexity in density calculations by moving to a straightforward units-per-acre standard and to modernize language—replacing ambiguous terms such as "row house" with "townhome" and "bachelor unit" with "studio apartment." Mr. Christofferson also highlighted water-conservation-driven landscaping changes that would allow xeriscaping and reduce traditional front-yard lawn requirements. "As part of the proposed amendments, staff has worked to simplify density calculations by transitioning to a straightforward units-per-acre standard," he told commissioners.

The amendments include raising the R-3 maximum density from 12 to 14 units per acre and setting an R-4 cap at 25 units per acre; staff reiterated that parking, setbacks and other development standards continue to constrain real-world unit counts. Local builders and developers who spoke in favor said the change would allow narrower, more affordable townhome designs and reduce regulatory uncertainty. The Commission voted to forward a positive recommendation to the City Council.