Planning Commission recommends ADU ordinance amendments, backs 1,200-square-foot cap for standalone units

The Buelton City Planning Commission voted to recommend that the City Council adopt updates to Title 19 of the Buelton Municipal Code governing accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and junior ADUs (JADUs), including a recommended 1,200-square-foot maximum for standalone detached ADUs, a 25-foot maximum height for single ADUs and an 18-foot cap where multiple ADUs would be combined on one lot.

Planning staff described the proposed package as a technical and policy update to align local rules with ongoing changes in state law and with a Housing Element adopted in 2023. "Accessory dwelling units are complete independent residences with their own kitchen and bathroom," planning staff member Kara said while summarizing the changes and examples. The Planning Commission motion recommended that the council consider the staff draft (Resolution 25-6) and the specific options discussed at the hearing.

The ordinance changes discussed by staff would: update definitions to match state law; limit owner-occupancy and deed-restriction requirements to JADUs only; prohibit unreasonable HOA bans consistent with state statutes; require ministerial approval of ADUs in zones that permit single- or multifamily residential uses (including multifamily components of…