Commission debates minimum dwelling size; informal vote favors 500‑square‑foot minimum to exclude tiny homes

The commission discussed whether the zoning code should set a minimum dwelling‑unit size to prevent very small “tiny homes” from being placed on Palos Park lots.

Commissioners voiced two opposing views: some argued a minimum is necessary to avoid substandard small units and to preserve neighborhood character; others said minimums can be arbitrary and that building and occupancy codes already limit impractical constructions. Staff noted the International Residential Code includes a tiny‑home definition that would, if applied, cut off at roughly 400–450 square feet, and staff recommended using that as a reference.

After discussion — including references to building-code, occupancy, and enforcement limitations — the commission took an informal show‑of‑hands and the majority favored adopting a 500‑square‑foot minimum for now. Members asked staff to return with a technical study showing how many existing lots and homes would be affected, examples of compliant small-unit designs, and a legal check on how minimums interact with building and occupancy codes.

Staff will prepare parcel-size and building-code cross-checks and present model smallest‑habitable dwellings that comply with applicable building codes so the commission can consider any numeric change before the public‑hearing draft.