Council updates ADU and junior ADU rules to match recent state law changes
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Summary
The council introduced an ordinance to amend the zoning code’s accessory dwelling unit (ADU) and junior ADU standards for compliance with state law, clarifying size limits, utility connection rules and ministerial approval procedures; the ordinance was introduced by title with first reading waived.
The council considered a zoning code update to revise local standards for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and junior ADUs (JADUs) to conform the city’s ordinance to recent state law changes.
City Attorney (and development staff) explained the revisions are primarily technical and ministerial: clarifying allowable ADU sizes for detached and attached units, specifying that existing water and sewer connections may be used for ADUs where lawful and feasible, limiting the city’s ability to require certain deed covenants, and updating the code section references for objective standards. The presenter noted state ADU rules continue to change and said additional ordinance amendments may be necessary in the future because the Legislature has made recurring updates to ADU law.
Planning Commission reviewed the item and unanimously recommended approval; no public opposition was reported at the Planning Commission hearing or at the council hearing. The council opened a public hearing, received no public comments on the zoning amendment, and introduced the ordinance by title only; the first reading was waived.
The code changes permit ministerial approval of ADU/JADU applications meeting objective standards, and clarify that existing utility connections may be used so long as they meet utility provider requirements—measures staff said will reduce development cost barriers for homeowners pursuing ADUs.
