Planners consider new dimensional rules — 400' lot width, 50' setbacks and debate over lot‑coverage limits

Township engineer Steve Dellinger presented a list of proposed dimensional standards to accompany other zoning changes: lot width of 400 feet, minimum yard setbacks of 50 feet, lot coverage at 5 percent, a minimum of 25 percent open space and a maximum building height of 35 feet. Zoning officer Duane Dellecker said he agreed with most recommendations but opposed the proposed 5 percent lot coverage level.

Commissioners discussed a non‑conforming provision that would require pre‑existing non‑conforming lots to meet 75 percent of required yard coverages and whether the front‑setback line should be measured from the ultimate right‑of‑way instead of the existing right‑of‑way. Ms. Farrell expressed concern about overly restrictive lot coverage and favored retaining a 10 percent lot‑coverage limit. Staff will reflect these competing preferences in the next draft ordinance.