Planners approve reduced-lot duplexes on North 32nd after variance and development-plan votes

The Fort Smith Board of Zoning Adjustment approved Variance 8426 and the Planning Commission approved the companion development plan on April 14 to allow two duplexes on reduced-size lots at 4720 North 32nd Street and 3210 Willow Street.

Staff reported the variance would reduce minimum lot sizes from required thresholds (6,500 sq ft down to requested figures) to allow two duplexes with two parking spaces per unit and brick-veneer facades. Staff advised that the property must be platted into two individual lots before building permit issuance and that a private sewer easement for the west lot must be obtained during the planning process.

During questions the commission sought clarity about the private sewer easement. Planning staff explained the easement is for private service lines (not a city utility easement) and "if you're going to cross somebody else's property line, you have to have your own private sewer line easement," and that the plat will not be filed until the easement is secured. The applicant confirmed that neighborhood outreach produced one email in support and one in opposition; those emails were provided to commissioners.

The variance passed the BZA 7–2 and the development plan passed the Planning Commission 7–2. Approvals are conditioned on required platting, compliance with municipal code parking standards, and obtaining the private sewer easement prior to plat filing.