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Port Orchard proposes ADU code changes to allow two units per lot, set size limits and clarify utilities
Summary
Staff presented amendments to POMC 20.68 to implement recent state law changes (House Bill 1337), allowing up to two ADUs per lot where single-family homes are permitted, setting a 1,000-square-foot maximum unit size and 24-foot height limit, permitting conversions of existing detached structures, and clarifying utility and parking treatment.
Port Orchard staff proposed changes to accessory dwelling unit (ADU) rules to comply with recent state legislation and to increase options for middle housing.
Jim (Principal Planner, City of Port Orchard) told the Planning Commission the draft amendments to POMC 20.68 would allow two ADUs per lot in zones where single-family homes are permitted, set a maximum ADU size of 1,000 square feet, and cap detached ADU height at 24 feet unless the principal dwelling has a lower limit. The draft also permits conversion of existing detached structures such as garages into ADUs even when they do not meet current zoning setbacks.
Staff said parking and street-improvement requirements would be updated in POMC 20.124 to align with HB 1337 and pending SB 5184; ADU-related impact fees would be capped at 50% of those assessed on the principal building, staff materials said. The proposal continues to prohibit ADUs in mapped critical areas, floodplains and geologically hazardous areas and retains public-health and environmental permitting requirements.
Commissioners asked about utilities and billing when one or two ADUs are added. Staff said city policy currently allows one ADU to remain on the primary water/sewer connection and account; a second ADU or separate sale/condominium of an ADU would trigger separate utility connections and connection fees. Staff noted any change to utility-fee policy would be considered through a separate utility rate and capital-facilities planning process.
Several commissioners and residents raised HOA concerns; staff advised the city does not enforce private covenants and that homeowners should check CC&Rs before building an ADU. No formal action was taken; staff asked commissioners for feedback to refine the draft before public hearing.
Ending: Staff will return with a revised draft and schedule public hearings; utility-policy changes (e.g., separate connection fees for second ADUs) would be addressed through future rate and system-plan updates.
