Layton City Council on July 8 tabled a proposed text amendment that would require single-family and two-family homes to orient front facades and front doors toward the front property line and ensure front doors open into habitable space rather than into garages.

Planning staff presented the draft ordinance, explaining it was intended to reduce infill designs that place front doors on side or rear lot lines and that create houses that read as garages rather than homes. Weston Apollonia said the rule would require a sidewalk or pathway to the front door and would prevent a front door that opens directly into a garage space.

The planning commission on July 8 had forwarded a recommendation of denial, saying the change was unnecessary because most major builders already comply and that the rule could impose an unreasonable burden on small builders. Staff recommended approval.

During the public hearing, resident Michael Christiansen and others spoke against the change, calling it unnecessary and cautioning about unintended effects on housing supply and design. Another attendee argued the regulation preserves neighborhood character and safety by keeping predictable front-yard orientation.

Several council members said they needed more information and time. Councilmember Thomas moved to close the public hearing and table the ordinance for further review; the motion carried with a second and no recorded opposition. No ordinance was adopted at the meeting.

Staff said they will return with additional information, including examples from other municipalities that have similar rules, and more detail to help council evaluate trade-offs for infill development and accessory-dwelling units (ADUs).