Savannah Small Lot Development Option
   

As part of their work on a countywide zoning ordinance, Duncan Associates prepared a small lot development option for the Chatham County-Savannah Metropolitan Planning Commission that will allow smaller lots to be developed by-right in existing large lot residential zoning districts. The small lot development option will be offered as an incentive to encourage higher quality design, preserve natural resources and promote housing affordability in new residential subdivisions. Smaller lots will be permitted, provided certain amenities are incorporated into the development. The small lot option comes in two flavors, one that requires a mix of housing types,

narrower streets, alleys, street trees, raised first floor elevations, front porches, increased open space, perimeter compatibly, limits on driveways and curb cuts, and garage restrictions for front-loaded residential units.The other allows developers to add a small neighborhood commercial component; however, the commercial uses must front on a square or plaza. The approach also permits live-work units above commercial uses and allows townhouses, provided they front onto the square or plaza as well. The small lot option was well received and is currently under review by the local Builders Committee.