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Commission discusses accessory (detached) dwelling units; no formal action taken
Summary
Commissioners discussed potential changes to allow detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs) but took no formal action, noting state-level proposals and design/utility constraints.
River Heights planning commissioners discussed the prospect of allowing detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs) — small separate dwelling units such as tiny houses or detached units sometimes built from shipping containers — but did not adopt any code changes or forward a recommendation to the council.
Staff and commissioners noted pressure at regional and state levels for cities to adopt ADU allowances and said neighboring cities (e.g., Providence) have adopted ADU provisions. Commissioners discussed typical constraints: lot size and setbacks, sewer and slope issues that may prevent many River Heights properties from supporting detached ADUs, and possible restrictions to ensure the units are used for long-term occupancy (transcript referenced a 30-day minimum occupancy in some other cities). Mark (staff) said he would share example language when available; no motion was made.
The commission agreed to monitor state developments and to await model ordinance language from staff and from neighboring cities before taking further action.
