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Council to consider revised ADU ordinance; staff narrowed proposal to attached, one‑bedroom units up to 850 sq ft
Summary
Planning staff summarized changes to a proposed accessory dwelling unit (ADU) ordinance: the revised draft limits ADUs to attached units on single‑family parcels, one bedroom, and a maximum of 850 square feet (or remaining allowed square footage); the ordinance is scheduled for second reading on Jan. 21.
Council got an overview of a substantially revised accessory dwelling unit ordinance and the reasoning behind changes from the version first introduced in June.
Nicole, a planning staff member, told council that planning commission initially recommended ADU allowances in May and that the council referred the matter to an ad‑hoc committee after concerns were raised. The ordinance shown in council packets for a second reading limits ADUs to attached units on single‑family parcels, caps ADUs at a maximum of 850 square feet (or the remaining square footage allowed by lot coverage), restricts ADUs to a single bedroom and requires dedicated off‑street parking.
Why the changes
Staff and the ad‑hoc committee said the revisions reflect council feedback and a cautious rollout strategy: allow a limited set of ADU types initially (attached only) to reduce potential neighborhood impacts, simplify administration (setbacks and lot line concerns) and evaluate implementation before broader expansion. Nicole and committee members said the approach is intended as a “crawl, walk, run” rollout and to preserve the option to revisit rules later.
Questions from council and clarifications
Council members asked whether variances would be available; Nicole responded that variances remain legally possible but are quasi‑judicial and not likely to be routinely supported by staff absent broader policy changes. Members asked how an attached ADU differs from a house addition; staff explained that the proposal would permit an independent entry to the ADU and certain unit features subject to building code (bathroom, kitchen) that define a separate dwelling.
Next steps
Staff said the ordinance revisions will be brought back for second reading at the January 21 meeting. Council did not take a final vote at the work session.
Ending
Council and staff indicated a willingness to monitor community feedback and to revisit the ordinance if implementation indicates changes are needed.
