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Commission recommends allowing duplexes and two‑unit buildings across conventional residential districts
Summary
Plan commissioners unanimously recommended a zoning text amendment to permit duplexes, twin homes and two‑unit buildings in conventional residential zoning districts citywide, expanding choices for small‑scale missing‑middle housing.
The Madison Plan Commission on July 7 unanimously recommended that the Common Council adopt a zoning text amendment to permit two‑unit buildings — including duplexes and twin homes — in conventional residential zoning districts where single‑family dwellings are allowed.
Staff explained the ordinance would expand places where two‑unit buildings are allowed beyond areas already covered by the city’s transit‑oriented development overlay. The change builds on earlier code revisions that gave property owners more flexibility to place units within buildings and is intended to incrementally increase small‑scale housing options throughout the city.
Several registrants spoke or registered in support during the public hearing. Will Frederick, a District 2 resident, said the change would help younger residents and workers who want to remain in Madison. Commissioners asked staff about whether plan development (PD) districts would be affected; staff said the amendment would not automatically apply to PD (site‑specific) zoning and that staff are exploring whether a path to similar allowances in PD districts is feasible.
Alder Glenn moved approval of the substitute ordinance, which included a technical correction to preserve a recently adopted front‑yard setback change; Alder Garett seconded. The commission recorded a unanimous recommendation and will forward the amendment to the Common Council for final action.
