Yorkton Council unanimously passed the first reading of a bylaw which will establish a new zone allowing for smaller residential lots in the city.
"The City is partnering with a private developer to provide housing to the entry-level ownership market as part of the Headstart on a Home program. The proposed lots are smaller than has been typically provided in the past with the goal of reducing costs for land. A new zoning district is required that will help to promote higher density development for single-detached dwellings," detailed a report circulated at the regular meeting of Yorkton Council Monday.
"Other Cities in Saskatchewan have implemented small lot zoning through various types of zoning methods," explained Michael Eger, Planner with the City. He added common aspects of the various bylaws "are that the minimum lot width is reduced significantly and that the minimum front yard setback is reduced by up to 50 per cent Further, front yard parking is typically not permitted where lots are serviced by a rear lane."
While specific to a recent request, Eger said smaller lots will likely be more common in the years ahead.
"While zoning of this nature should also be considered for other developments, such as a portion of the York Colony subdivision (north if York Road and east of Highway 9), it is expected that most new residential developments will incorporate a mix of residential zoning districts. This will provide better housing options for all demographics and help to decrease long term servicing and infrastructure costs through increased density," stated the report.
The new lots will be nine-metres wide, compared to 15 in general residential lots. Lots will also be four-metres shorter in depth.
The maximum site coverage will be 50 per cent, compared to 40 per cent with regular lots.
