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Advisory committee considers permitting zero‑lot‑line 'patio' homes beyond cluster developments
Summary
Consultants proposed allowing zero‑lot‑line (patio) homes—a detached, small‑lot product that can increase affordability—initially in cluster developments; commissioners asked whether to expand allowed districts and questioned building‑code and maintenance implications.
Consultants described zero‑lot‑line (patio) homes as detached single‑family units sited on one lot edge to create a usable 10‑foot side yard on the opposite side. The draft would allow this product in cluster developments where it is used to preserve open or environmentally sensitive areas; staff asked commissioners whether the city should allow zero‑lot‑line homes more broadly and in which residential districts.
The consultant explained the 10‑foot separation concept and cautioned that the 10‑foot figure has roots in building‑code thresholds for wall openings and fire separation. "What a 0 lot line does is it takes instead of having 2 5 foot setbacks... combine all the setbacks on 1 side... you see usually a 10 foot separation," a presenter said.
Commissioners noted local examples and practical concerns about maintenance easements and neighbor coordination; one commissioner pointed to existing zero‑lot‑line homes in Wells Branch as a local reference. The committee generally supported allowing zero‑lot‑line homes in the mix of districts identified in the memo (SFS, SFMU, NFR, NMU) and asked staff to confirm SFR and other district applicability.
Next steps: staff will confirm district lists and refine draft language to identify where patio homes are allowed and what maintenance easements or construction standards apply.
