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Ordinance Amending the Land Development Code, Chapter 18, to Modify Dimensional and Building Orientation Standards Within the R-3, Medium-High-Density Mixed Residential Zoning District (LDC-3-1225)
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Department: |
Planning & Development |
Meeting Date: |
1/6/2026 |
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Contact Name: |
Linda Painter |
Public Hearing: |
Yes |
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Contact Phone: |
910-341-7806 |
Advertising Date/Advertised By: |
12/26/25 & 1/2/26/25 StarNews |
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Attachments: |
Attachment #1: Ordinance; Attachment #2: Case Summary; Attachment #3: R3 Zoning Map; Attachment #4: Planning Commission Consistency Statement; Attachment #5: Draft Planning Commission Minutes |
PURPOSE:
The proposed amendment to the Land Development Code (“LDC”) would reduce the minimum lot area requirements for duplex development in the R-3, medium-high-density mixed residential district when prescribed building orientation standards are met. It will also reduce the rear yard setback in the R-3 zoning district from 15 to 10 feet and correct a typographical error within the R-3 zoning district purpose statement.
BACKGROUND:
The LDC currently imposes a minimum lot area of 4,000 square feet to construct a duplex in the R-3 district, and sets a minimum rear yard setback of 15 feet for primary structures. This proposal would reduce the minimum lot area requirement for duplexes when prescribed building orientation standards are met, and reduce the rear yard setback from 15 feet to 10 feet.
The R-3 district is located near the City’s urban core, and its development pattern is characterized by small, compact residential developments within a gridded street network. The Comprehensive Plan encourages increasing access to a range of housing types and increasing housing opportunities with convenient access to goods, services, and job opportunities.
The Planning Commission held a public hearing regarding this land development code amendment on December 3, 2025. After discussion, including a debate on the proposed front porch orientation standard, the commission voted 7-0 in favor of recommending approval of the proposed amendments.
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BUDGET IMPACT:
N/A
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RECOMMENDATION / ACTION REQUESTED:
Staff recommends approval of the requested amendment to the Land Development Code based on consistency with the Create Wilmington Comprehensive Plan, particularly policies 1.7.1, 1.7.3, 1.7.10, 1.11.1, and 3.1.4.