During the Ivins City Council Work Meeting on July 17, 2025, council members engaged in a detailed discussion regarding the definitions and regulations surrounding accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in the city. The primary focus was on the definition of "owner-occupied" properties and how it impacts housing availability and regulations.

A council member raised concerns about the current definition of owner-occupied, which requires the property owner to reside in either the main dwelling or the ADU. This definition could potentially exclude families who rent out part of their property while living elsewhere, such as in the case of a family member renting an ADU. The discussion highlighted the need to consider how these regulations might limit housing opportunities for residents, particularly in a market where affordable housing is increasingly scarce.

The council debated whether to modify the definition to allow for more flexibility, suggesting that the term "owner" could be removed from the definition altogether. This change could enable more individuals to utilize their properties for rental purposes without the requirement of living on-site. However, concerns were raised about the implications of such a change, particularly regarding the potential transformation of single-family neighborhoods into multi-unit rental properties, which could alter the character of these communities.

Additionally, the council discussed the implications of state regulations on ADUs, noting that while the state requires a primary resident to be present, there is room for local jurisdictions to establish their own definitions and regulations. The conversation also touched on the maximum allowable size for ADUs, with suggestions to align local regulations with state standards while ensuring that lot coverage and neighborhood integrity are maintained.

The meeting underscored the delicate balance the council must strike between increasing housing availability and preserving the character of residential neighborhoods. As the council continues to refine these regulations, the discussions reflect broader concerns about housing affordability and community dynamics in Ivins. The council plans to revisit these topics in future meetings, indicating that the conversation around ADUs and owner occupancy will remain a priority as they seek to address the community's housing needs.