Development Issues

In the last several years, the City of Durham has created new rules and codes for zoning and development. You may have heard of SCAD, UDO, small lot options, flag lots, among numerous acronyms and terms.

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How do these affect our neighborhoods? The short answer is that more density is allowed. A good example of what is now allowed is at the corner of Virginia Ave and Woodrow St. A house was torn down and replaced with four two-story houses with small footprints. On other small lots that were previously vacant, small houses have been built. In the back of properties, you will see new accessory dwelling units which provide the possibility of additional residential space nearby the primary residence on the same property.

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The neighborhood board monitors changes in these rules, advocates on behalf of the neighborhood, and ensures construction adheres to the rules. Often, committees of neighbors meet with developers and builders to review plans and request changes before the plans are final.