Delray Beach CRA studies accessory dwelling-unit rules amid pending state bill

Delray Beach Community Redevelopment Agency commissioners on March 25 discussed draft rules for accessory dwelling units in the West Settlers neighborhood, seeking direction on whether to limit ADUs to homesteaded properties, cap building height and require on-site parking.

Commissioners said the discussion matters because a pending state bill could remove local controls on ADU location and parking, forcing the city to adopt standards that manage size, height and neighborhood impacts.

The presentation, led by planning staff member Miss Ginoitis, described analyses by consultant Opticos that tested how detached and attached ADUs would fit on the neighborhood’s common lot sizes and block patterns. Ginoitis said, “Accessory dwelling units are have a lot of benefits to them,” and explained the consultant also tested cottage courts and other “missing middle” housing forms to balance scale and parking. She told the board the city’s code currently limits accessory buildings’ height so carriage-house configurations are often constrained.

Resident Cheryl Haywood raised concerns during…