Planning commission adopts clarified ADU rules, allows detached accessory dwelling units with conditions

The Woodland Hills Planning Commission adopted revisions to city development rules that clarify rules for accessory dwelling units (ADUs), distinguishing between internal ADUs inside the primary dwelling and detached (external) ADUs located outside the primary home.

Commission staff explained the change aligns local terminology with prevalent municipal practice and state code: the ordinance retains separate categories — an internal accessory dwelling unit inside the main structure and an external, self-contained unit detached from the primary home — and restates setbacks and building requirements for each. The proposed amendment was described as intended to provide additional housing flexibility while keeping standards for setbacks, building codes and utility connections.

Commissioners and members of the public questioned size limits, foundation and utility requirements, septic and sewer connections, and whether tiny homes on wheels could qualify. Staff said any external ADU must meet all applicable city building and fire codes (which include foundation, electrical, plumbing, and fire-safety requirements) and county septic or sewer capacity rules. The commission discussed but did not add a minimum square-footage requirement for external ADUs; commissioners noted most lots and setback rules already limit extreme outcomes.

A motion to adopt the ordinance changes (city code 10-18-1 and 10-19) passed following a second. One commissioner announced an abstention and requested additional study; the motion nevertheless carried.