Galt City Council updates ADU ordinance aligning with state housing laws

The Buellton City Council made significant strides in updating its accessory dwelling unit (ADU) ordinance during a meeting on May 8, 2025, aiming to align local regulations with evolving state laws. The revisions, which are crucial for addressing housing needs in the community, include changes to size limits, height restrictions, and fencing requirements for ADUs.

Key among the updates is the decision to allow detached ADUs to reach a maximum size of 1,200 square feet, while attached units will be capped at 850 square feet for studios and one-bedroom units, and 1,000 square feet for two-bedroom units. This decision reflects a compromise between the council and the planning commission, which had recommended maintaining the larger size limits for detached units. Council members expressed concerns about maintaining aesthetic harmony in neighborhoods while also accommodating property owners' desires for larger living spaces.

Height restrictions were also a focal point of discussion. The council agreed to a maximum height of 25 feet for both attached and detached ADUs, which allows for the possibility of second-story additions. This change is intended to provide flexibility for homeowners looking to maximize their property’s potential while adhering to community standards.

In a notable move, the council opted against implementing a fencing requirement for ADUs, allowing homeowners the freedom to decide on fencing based on their preferences and privacy needs. This decision was influenced by feedback from the California Department of Housing and Community Development, which indicated that fencing standards should not be specific to ADUs but rather part of broader residential development guidelines.

The council's decisions are expected to facilitate the construction of more ADUs in Buellton, addressing the ongoing housing shortage while balancing the interests of existing residents. The ordinance revisions will now proceed to a formal vote, with the council expressing optimism about the positive impact these changes will have on the community.