City proposes changes to streamline ADU permitting process and enhance support for homeowners

Salinas officials are taking significant steps to streamline the permitting process for residential development, particularly for accessory dwelling units (ADUs), following a recent Finance Committee meeting on May 13, 2025. The committee discussed the urgent need for improved coordination among various city departments to enhance service delivery for property owners navigating complex regulatory requirements.

A key proposal from the meeting is the creation of a dedicated senior planner position. This role is intended to facilitate communication between the planning division, permit services, and development engineering, ensuring that applicants have a single point of contact to address their concerns and track their applications. The senior planner will also oversee compliance with regulatory processes, which is crucial for meeting state mandates like SB 330 and the Permit Streamlining Act.

The committee highlighted the challenges faced by property owners, particularly first-time applicants, who often find the permitting process confusing and overwhelming. With a significant volume of residential applications—approaching 300 annually—there is a pressing need for more hands-on support. Currently, staffing shortages have led to reliance on consultants, which has resulted in inconsistent customer service and excessive rounds of review.

To address these issues, the committee proposed forming an ADU team that would include a plan check supervisor and additional plan checkers. This team would provide upfront guidance to applicants, helping them understand requirements and avoid unnecessary resubmissions. The goal is to improve communication and streamline the process, ultimately leading to higher quality submissions and faster approvals.

Additionally, the committee discussed potential changes to the zoning code to simplify development design standards and permit processing. By removing unnecessary requirements, such as conditional use permits for minor driveway extensions, the city aims to reduce costs and processing times for property owners while allowing staff to focus on more complex projects.

These initiatives reflect Salinas' commitment to enhancing the residential development process, making it more accessible and efficient for community members. As these proposals move forward, residents can expect a more supportive environment for their development projects, fostering growth and improving housing options in the area.