Cohousing-L Mailing List: "Cohousing Overlay" as Zoning Regulation

[VAN DEIST (vandeist]

I want to learn what kinds of 
provisions the readership would like to see in a "cohousing zoning 
overlay."  Suncoast Elder Cohousing Community is working with the Sarasota 
County Planning Department to
 define a "cohousing overlay" to permit the unique, architectural, spacial, and 
construction aspects of cohousing which might ordinarily run afoul of current 
regulations.  These would be specific to cohousing developments and 
would not effect any other current regulations.  

The only topics
 which we're currently promoting is 1) for density to be increased with 
the use of cottages 600 ft2 or less (counting as 1/2 of a dwelling unit)
 and cottages between 600 ft2 and 800 ft2 (counting as 3/4 of a dwelling
 unit) and 2) eliminating the restriction on clustered housing that 
mandates that all homes lined up on any side be similar in design.  
We're all for variety; have five, basic models; and don't want to be told what 
house goes where.  We planning only 24 cottages and a common house on five 
acres.   

What other issues would you like to see included in a "cohousing zoning 
overlay?"  We'd very much appreciate your input.

Thank you,
  
Van Deist, Organizer
Suncoast Elder Cohousing Community
Sarasota, FL
vandeist [at] msn.com
941.223.5880