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Commission clarifies accessory dwelling unit allowances and setback rules for garage access
Summary
The planning commission reviewed ADU placement rules and setback language for detached garages and alley‑loaded conditions, asking staff to clarify where ADUs are allowed and to ensure setback wording is explicit about which side yard must accommodate driveway access.
Commissioners discussed accessory dwelling unit (ADU) rules and related setback language May 14, asking staff to clarify where ADUs are allowed and how side‑yard setbacks interact with detached garages and alley loading.
Staff moved the ADU text to the residential definitions section and confirmed ADUs are allowed on lots with single‑unit, two‑unit and three‑unit principal dwellings (with four units discussed as a maximum in other sections). The commission emphasized ADUs should be clearly described so they don’t create de facto additional principal units beyond the city’s intent.
On setbacks, staff proposed that if a detached garage is provided, the side‑yard setback of the primary residential structure must be a minimum of 9 feet to allow vehicle access. Commissioners asked staff to clarify that the requirement means "at least one side yard" must meet the 9‑foot width sufficient for a driveway (not that both sides must be 9 feet). Commissioners also discussed alley‑loaded garages and shared driveways; staff said the code currently does not broadly allow shared driveways and will clarify exceptions for alley‑loaded and corner situations.
The commission directed staff to make the ADU language and side‑yard/garage access rules explicit and to return the clarified text to the working group and then to the council packet.
