Sunset City Council proposes regulations for accessory dwelling units and height restrictions

The Sunset Planning Commission convened on August 14, 2025, to discuss regulations surrounding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in Davis County, Utah. The meeting focused on establishing guidelines for the size, location, and architectural compatibility of ADUs, as well as addressing community concerns regarding property rights and neighborhood aesthetics.

The commission began by reviewing the minimum property area required for ADUs, which is set at 8,000 square feet. It was noted that ADUs must be located in the rear yard and cannot exceed 1,000 square feet in gross square footage, aligning with existing regulations for primary structures. Setback requirements were also discussed, with a minimum of 5 feet from the main building and 6 feet from property lines being proposed to ensure adequate space between structures.

Concerns were raised about the potential for two-story ADUs, particularly in neighborhoods where existing homes are single-story. The commission debated whether to impose height restrictions to prevent overlooking into neighboring yards, with suggestions to limit ADUs to the height of adjacent primary structures. This discussion highlighted the importance of maintaining the character of the neighborhood while allowing for increased housing options.

The commission also examined existing city codes regarding side and rear yard setbacks, emphasizing the need for consistency in regulations. It was suggested that any new ADU regulations should consider the average lot sizes within the city, which were reported to be around 7,405 square feet, to ensure that the guidelines are practical and enforceable.

As the meeting progressed, members expressed the need for a matrix to compare regulations from neighboring cities, such as Clinton and Mill Creek, which have different approaches to ADU height and size restrictions. The commission acknowledged the importance of learning from these examples to craft effective local policies.

In conclusion, the Sunset Planning Commission's discussions on ADUs reflect a careful balancing act between promoting housing development and preserving neighborhood integrity. The commission plans to continue refining the proposed regulations, with further meetings scheduled to finalize the guidelines and address any remaining community concerns.