Commission weighs multiunit overlay for Highlands to allow duplexes, studied triplex/fourplex rules

Planning staff presented a workshop on interim zoning regulations for the Highlands area and proposed a geographically targeted overlay—tentatively named the "multiunit zone"—that would keep the underlying R‑1 (single‑family) base but modify allowed uses and development standards in order to permit duplexes outright, permit triplexes and fourplexes as special land uses, and disallow larger multifamily structures such as apartment buildings and boarding houses in the overlay area.

The presenter said the overlay is intended to address local conditions—small lot sizes (often 4,000–5,000 sq ft), narrow streets with on‑street parking and three transit routes—while avoiding a wholesale rewrite of the zoning code. Under the concept, duplexes would be permitted as of right; triplexes and fourplexes would require a special land use review (including Board of Adjustment review and public…