Commission approves rezoning of roughly 40 acres with 2-acre minimum lots; council rejects ban on detached accessory dwelling units

The Tooele County Commission on Tuesday approved a rezoning request for approximately 40 acres (applicant—s materials and planning staff packet) after the Planning Commission recommended minimum two-acre lots and a prohibition on detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs).

Tricia Clow of planning staff said the Planning Commission voted 6-1 to recommend approval with two conditions: a minimum lot size of two acres and a ban on detached ADUs based on health department septic concerns. Clow said the health department and state water-rights review informed the Planning Commission—s lot-size recommendation.

Several commissioners questioned whether barring detached ADUs would invite state intervention, given recent state-level housing legislation aimed at increasing density. Councilman Wardle argued that forbidding detached ADUs could give the state "fodder to come after us." Councilman Stromberg moved to approve the rezone with the Planning Commission—s two-acre minimum but without the ADU prohibition; Councilman Thomas seconded the motion. The motion passed by voice vote.

Why it matters: the rule will shape future development density in the area, septic system needs and housing options. Planning staff said internal (attached) ADUs remain allowed; the Planning Commission—s concern focused on detached units because of septic loading and potential impacts on neighboring wells. Commissioners noted detached ADUs can still be considered through conditional-use review if concerns arise.

Next steps: the rezone was approved with the two-acre minimum; staff will process final ordinance paperwork. The Planning Commission recommendation to prohibit detached ADUs was not adopted by the full commission.