Council approves special-use permit for accessory dwelling at East Wright Boulevard with parking condition

On Feb. 18 the Universal City Council approved on second reading an amended special-use permit (SUP 655T, 436 & 38 E. Wright Blvd.) that allows an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) subject to new conditions, after council discussion about parking and neighborhood context.

Staff summarized changes requested after the first reading: a unity-of-title agreement must be approved and recorded; the ADU was limited to no more than 768 square feet; the interior fence separating the existing home from the proposed ADU must be removed; and an additional parking space adjacent to the existing driveway was proposed as a condition. Staff noted the property currently has a two-car garage and a long driveway that can accommodate additional cars.

During discussion, council members expressed differing views. Some council members said the applicants had already taken steps to address parking concerns, including moving a trailer off the street and relocating a vehicle; others voiced concern that ADUs can function as separate rentals and change neighborhood character. Councilmember comments included both support for allowing property owners to add ADUs and concern about potential conversion to rental units.

A motion to approve the ordinance as written (including the additional parking requirement) passed. Council clarified the additional parking would be an on-site improvement (a widened/expanded driveway area) rather than a new curb cut. No amendment removing the parking requirement was adopted.

Planning staff said they had not recently heard follow-up objections from neighbors after the first reading and confirmed the applicant had discussed the conditions with staff. The ordinance will be recorded with the unity-of-title condition as required by the SUP.