Commission approves frontage variance for Lot C in Stever Heights subdivision

The Rapid City Zoning Board voted to approve a variance to waive the minimum public street frontage requirement for proposed Lot C in the Stever Heights Subdivision, allowing the lot to rely on a 52-foot private access and utility easement and shared well and septic arrangements.

Staff (S8) said the lot currently benefits from a section-line right-of-way that satisfies the 25-foot frontage requirement; if the applicant vacates the section line the variance would be required. The staff presentation noted infrastructure design criteria allow private roads to serve up to four lots and that the proposed access and easement create a special circumstance supporting the variance.

Commissioners asked whether shared septic and well systems are allowed inside the city. Todd (S7) said the state would need to review and approve any shared septic or well system, and the city would issue permits following state approval; he added the lots are large enough to accommodate individual systems if the state denied a shared arrangement. Commissioner Karen moved to approve the variance as the minimum adjustment necessary, the motion was seconded and the board approved by voice vote.