Farmington tackles housing crisis with innovative ADU solutions

During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the ongoing efforts to address housing affordability in Farmington, Utah, particularly through the implementation of accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Dave Peterson, the community development director for Farmington, presented a comprehensive overview of the city's updated ordinances regarding ADUs, which aim to provide more housing options amid a growing affordability crisis.

Peterson explained that the city has been allowing ADUs since 2002, with recent adjustments to definitions and regulations to better accommodate both internal and detached units. The new definitions include Internal Accessory Dwelling Units (IADUs) and Detached Accessory Dwelling Units (DADUs), with specific requirements for lot sizes and owner occupancy. For instance, IADUs can be placed on lots as small as 6,000 square feet, while DADUs require a minimum of 10,000 square feet.

The discussion highlighted the pressing issue of housing costs in Farmington, where the average home price exceeds $750,000, making it increasingly difficult for residents to find affordable housing. Peterson noted that the average household income in the area is around $130,000, yet a family would need an income of $165,000 to afford a $500,000 home. This stark contrast underscores the urgency of exploring alternative housing solutions.

One innovative proposal discussed was the potential for \"for sale\" DADUs, which would allow homeowners to sell these units independently while still adhering to city regulations. This idea was met with cautious optimism, as it could provide additional equity opportunities for families, particularly seniors looking to downsize.

Concerns were raised about the risk of these units becoming investment properties rather than owner-occupied homes. To mitigate this, the city has implemented a requirement that the owner must live on-site for at least two years before renting out the property. This measure aims to deter investors from purchasing multiple properties solely for rental income.

The meeting also touched on the broader implications of ADUs as a tool for increasing housing density and affordability. Representatives expressed appreciation for Farmington's proactive approach but emphasized the need for ongoing evaluation of regulations to ensure they do not inadvertently limit opportunities for residents.

As the city continues to refine its policies, the discussions reflect a growing recognition of the importance of flexible housing solutions in addressing the challenges of affordability and community dynamics in Farmington and beyond.