Backyard Lot Proposal Could Make Way for More Housing, Critics Worry About Displacement

Asheville, N.C. – A proposal to let Asheville homeowners subdivide and sell off their backyard lots as individual parcels has passed its first hurdle.

The city’s planning and zoning commission earlier this month approved the proposal with a goal of creating more housing lots in Asheville. Currently, a lot has to have street frontage in order to meet city zoning requirements to build a house.

Asheville Vice Mayor Sandra Kilgore supports the proposal, saying she believes it would help already struggling homeowners with a way to keep their homes in Asheville. Critics worry that it could displace families eventually.

Support for the Proposal

“They actually can have that back lot, subdivide it, and use that money and sell it if they wanted to,” said Asheville Vice Mayor. She said she is aware there are councilmembers concerned a loosening of restrictions could lead to displacement of families in what are called legacy neighborhoods. But Kilgore disagrees with that idea, saying it could give families struggling to live the funds to keep their homes in Asheville.

Requirements and Restrictions

The current proposal would require a backyard lot for sale be at least 40 by 40 feet. A home could not be larger than 1,500-square-feet, and a homeowner could only sell one subdivided parcel off their backyard lot.

Concerns from Council Members

But several members of Asheville City Council have expressed concern that a backyard lot allowance could lead to displacements of families or a shift in the look of neighborhoods. Kilgore feels that notion is short-sighted and that owners are the ones who would decide if they wanted to sell their backyard to someone for profit.

Expected Vote

The proposal is expected to go before council for a vote in September.