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Brighton sets August public hearing on accessory‑structure changes after first reading; council agrees to raise height cap
Summary
Council completed a first reading of proposed Ordinance No. 610 to amend accessory‑structure rules (Chapter 98) and set a public hearing for Aug. 12, 2025. Council agreed to increase the draft height limit from 22 to 26 feet and to explicitly prohibit accessory dwelling units in attic space.
The Brighton City Council held a first reading on July 8, 2025 of proposed Ordinance No. 610, which would amend Chapter 98 to allow certain attic spaces in accessory structures to be converted into usable floor area (as a half‑story), increase maximum accessory‑structure height, and reduce rear‑yard setbacks for specific lot sizes. Council voted to set a public hearing on the ordinance for Aug. 12, 2025 and agreed to raise the proposed height from 22 feet to 26 feet before the hearing.
Community Development Manager Andrew Caruso said the Planning Commission developed the draft to let homeowners gain more usable space (e.g., storage, offices, playrooms) while avoiding creation of second dwelling units. "Attic space used as an accessory dwelling unit is prohibited," Caruso read; City Attorney Gavis recommended clarifying language to prohibit sleeping quarters if the commission wished to prevent bedrooms above garages.
Under the draft, Garage/attic conversions could be treated as a half‑story of occupied floor area if they meet all chapter regulations. The proposed amendments would increase the maximum height of accessory structures from the current 15 feet to the new limit (council agreed to 26 feet at first reading), and reduce the rear yard setback in R‑1 and R‑5 districts to 10 feet for lots 132 feet wide or smaller, enabling larger accessory structures in smaller yards.
Council member Gibson advocated increasing the cap to 26 feet to accommodate older carriage‑house forms and narrow lots; several other council members supported that change. Resident and downtown business owner Tom Coats urged the council to consider allowing a sink and toilet in some accessory spaces to support arts and small‑business uses.
Mayor Pro Tem moved to set the public hearing for Aug. 12, 2025; Council member Gibson supported the motion. The motion passed by voice vote. Council indicated the administrative language (height, dwelling‑unit prohibition) would be included in the public‑hearing draft.
