County hears public concerns on proposed ADU zoning changes, keeps hearing open for more input

Planning staff presented proposed updates to Chapter 45 to implement recent state law on accessory dwelling units (ADUs), explaining that the state requires jurisdictions to allow at least one ADU per residential property and sets a general size limit of 1,000 square feet or 50% of the primary home (using assessor above‑grade finished area for the 50% calculation). The planner described three local options under consideration: codify the size limit in county code to make it appealable to the board of adjustment; allow larger units on large parcels (for example, parcels of 10 acres or more); or require a conditional‑use permit for units exceeding the state cap. "July 2025 ... the state passed a legislation that requires every city and county in the state to allow at least one ADU on residential property," the planning presenter said during the overview.