Buckley planners debate ADU size, setbacks, short‑term rents and preapproved plans

Buckley Planning Commission members and city staff discussed proposed changes to the city’s accessory dwelling unit (ADU) rules, focusing on maximum and minimum sizes, setbacks, short‑term rental restrictions, building standards and program support for homeowners.

The discussion matters because ADU rules determine whether homeowners can add small, secondary units that can house seniors, relatives or renters, and they affect sewer and utility service, permit fees and neighborhood impacts.

Commissioners and staff reviewed a draft ADU code that staff said has been “resubmitted to ComLink before the 60‑day comment period” and noted a city council hearing is scheduled for May 27 with potential adoption later this summer. Staff identified three recurring issues: minimum/maximum unit size, setbacks and how the city will handle utilities and impact fees.

A public commenter, Josh Foss, urged the commission to align Buckley’s maximum size with Pierce County standards and said, “The current city of Buckley code shows a minimum of 300 square feet, a maximum of 800 square feet.” Foss…