Changes to Cottage Court and Cluster Home Regulations in Kill Devil Hills

News Summary

Kill Devil Hills is undergoing significant changes to its cottage court and cluster home regulations in response to community feedback. Mayor Ben Sproul and local officials are considering adjustments that include reducing building height and increasing yard setbacks to preserve the town’s charm. Additionally, new commercial developments, such as a Sherwin Williams paint store, are on the horizon. Community engagement remains strong as residents voice their concerns and suggestions, shaping a future that balances growth with the town’s quaint appeal.

Exciting Changes Coming to Kill Devil Hills Cottage Court and Cluster Home Regulations

In the charming coastal town of Kill Devil Hills, nestled on the beautiful Outer Banks of North Carolina, some important tweaks are on the radar regarding the cottage court and cluster home regulations. Local officials, led by Mayor Ben Sproul, have heard community feedback loud and clear and are eager to make changes that will keep this town family-friendly while enhancing its quaint charm.

What’s on the Table?

After discussions and consideration, Assistant Planning Director Cameron Ray has laid out several potential revisions designed to address community concerns. These proposed changes include:

Reducing the overall building height or square footage of cottage courts and cluster homes, making them feel less imposing.
Increasing the front yard setback, allowing for more space between homes and the road.
Implementing more restrictive density requirements to prevent homes from feeling cramped.

These adjustments come in response to worries voiced by residents about the developments feeling too close to the road, being packed in tight together, and towering over the surrounding area. The community’s concerns are valid, especially since the initial ordinances that opened the door for these kinds of developments were adopted in 2018 and 2019. Since then, a few new projects have popped up, including sites at:

709 N. Virginia Dare Trail
100 E. Fifth Street
207 W. Martin Street

Listening to the Community

With so many homes sprouting up, it’s no wonder that residents are taking a close look at how these developments align with the original vision of cottage courts. Commissioner Terry Gray has pointed out that the new builds aren’t quite capturing the essence of what a cottage court should be. This candid feedback indicates a healthy dialogue between the town’s leaders and its citizens.

Mayor Ben Sproul has acknowledged that while these cottage developments bring certain benefits, they also come with their issues—hence why the commissioners are showing strong support for revising the town code. It looks like collective feedback is steering the boat toward a more balanced approach to urban planning.

Commercial Developments Also in Full Swing

In addition to potential changes in residential regulations, the town also has some exciting commercial developments on the horizon. Just recently, two commercial site plans received the green light! First up is a shiny new Sherwin Williams paint store set to open at 1828 N. Croatan Hwy, boasting a generous 4,000 square feet of space. That’s a lot of paint options to spruce up your home!

And that’s not all—the townsfolk can look forward to a 2,400 square foot boat sales, rental, and repair shop at 1906 S. Croatan Highway. With the water just a stone’s throw away, this addition is bound to benefit both locals and visitors eager to enjoy everything the beautiful coastline has to offer.

Code Changes Ahead

There’s more good news on the environmental front, too! The commissioners have approved a zoning amendment that will strengthen protections for the sandy dunes that grace the coastline—protecting them beyond the existing Coastal Area Management Act regulations.

Mark Your Calendars!

Looking for a way to connect with your neighbors while enjoying a sweet treat? Mark September 26 on your calendar! The annual ice cream social event will take place from 4:30 to 7 p.m., providing a delightful opportunity for community members to come together, share a scoop, and enjoy the lovely ambiance that only Kill Devil Hills can offer.

With all these exciting changes and community activities underway, Kill Devil Hills is undoubtedly becoming a more vibrant place to live and visit. It’s clear that residents’ voices are being heard, paving the way for a town that truly feels like home!