Knoxville Council defers lot size variance for father-daughter property subdivision

The Knox County Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) meeting on April 27, 2025, focused on two significant requests for variances related to property development. The discussions highlighted the complexities of zoning regulations and the need for precise property measurements.

The first request involved a father seeking to subdivide his property to transfer a portion to his daughter. The applicant requested a variance to reduce the minimum lot size from 10,000 square feet to 7,500 square feet. However, during the meeting, board members expressed confusion over the proposed lot sizes, which appeared to exceed the required minimum when combined. The board suggested postponing the decision for 30 days to allow the applicant to obtain a survey for accurate lot measurements. The motion to defer was unanimously approved, emphasizing the board's commitment to ensuring compliance with zoning laws.

The second request came from Glenn Kirtley, who sought a waiver of the periphery boundary setback from 35 feet to 18 feet to accommodate a swimming pool on his corner lot. Kirtley explained that he was unaware that both the side and front of his property were subject to front yard setbacks. Board members, familiar with the area, expressed no opposition to the request, noting that the pool would not negatively impact neighbors. A motion to approve the variance, with a slight adjustment to the boundary to provide additional leeway, was also passed without opposition.

These discussions reflect the ongoing challenges property owners face in navigating zoning regulations in Knox County, as well as the board's role in balancing individual property rights with community standards. The next steps for the first request will involve obtaining a survey to clarify property boundaries, while the second request has been successfully approved, allowing for the planned pool installation.