Planning commission deletes public‑street access requirement for townhouses; commissioners cite fire and code safeguards

The Lexington Planning Commission voted March 26 to approve a zoning ordinance amendment (ZOA 2026‑01) deleting the requirement that any townhouse must front on or be accessed by a public street.

Staff explained the amendment would add flexibility by allowing townhouse developments to be accessed from private drives while leaving building‑code, fire‑marshal and zoning setback standards in place. Commissioners discussed public‑safety concerns raised to staff — specifically whether private drives could impede emergency access — and staff and commissioners noted that life‑safety standards, including appropriate pavement width and fire department review, remain enforceable through the building and permitting process.

After brief discussion and noting that email comments had been received but no speakers appeared at the public‑hearing portion, a commissioner moved to approve the amendment and the motion carried. The commission’s approval removes the public‑street access requirement; applicants proposing townhouse developments on private drives will still be subject to applicable zoning standards and fire‑safety review during permitting.

Next step: staff will ensure that proposed townhouse developments comply with the applicable zoning district standards and coordinate with the fire marshal and building officials on access requirements before a building permit is issued.