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Provo planners recommend exemption from covered-parking requirement for ADUs on local landmarks
Summary
The commission voted unanimously to recommend a text amendment to Provo City Code 14.30 that would allow homes on the local Landmarks Register to meet accessory-dwelling-unit parking requirements without providing covered parking structures.
The Provo City Planning Commission on May 14 voted unanimously to recommend that the municipal council adopt ordinance text amendments to Provo City Code Section 14.30. The proposed amendment would exempt properties on the Provo local Landmarks Register from the requirement that driveway parking count only if it leads to required covered parking when creating an accessory dwelling unit (ADU).
Dustin Wright, presenting for staff, said the amendment is applicant-sponsored and intended to help owners of historic properties who find required covered parking would detract from a home’s historic character. Wright said the change would still require that the property provide the number of parking spaces the code requires for an ADU, but the spaces would not have to be covered; additionally, parking would not be allowed between the primary dwelling and the street.
The applicant, Wendy Holdaway, was not present. Members of the public who did speak included the applicant’s relatives and collaborators who described renovation challenges. One commenter said the house in question is built of adobe and that adding a carport would “detract from the historical look” and contractors familiar with historic materials are difficult to find.
Commissioners asked staff how many properties could be affected; staff said approximately 47 properties are on the register and in zones that could allow ADUs, but that many already have garages, so the number likely to change use is smaller. Wright said the amendment would not remove the overall parking requirement — it would only remove the covered-parking requirement for landmarks.
Commissioner [name omitted for neutrality] moved that the commission recommend approval to municipal council of the text amendment to Provo City Code 14.30 to allow homes on the Landmarks Register to be exempt from providing covered parking structures for ADUs. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.
Staff said the change is intended to preserve historic character while enabling property owners to meet modern housing needs by allowing ADUs in a way that is less likely to require intrusive covered structures.
The commission’s recommendation will be forwarded to the municipal council for final action.
