Marshfield council gives first readings to zoning changes to allow duplexes, townhomes and a new small-scale residential district

The Marshfield Common Council on Oct. 28 advanced first readings of two zoning ordinances aimed at broadening housing options in low-density neighborhoods.

City Administrator Steve Barr told the council Ordinance No. 15-37 would amend the SR-6 zoning district to add duplexes, twin homes and townhouses of three to four units as principal uses and to permit accessory dwelling units (ADUs) with permitting conditions. He said the Planning Commission supported the proposed changes after a public hearing and that the council will consider second reading and final action on Nov. 11.

Barr described the difference between existing “2-flats” and duplexes, saying a 2-flat is typically a two-story structure with one unit above another, while the proposed duplex and twin-home allowances would expand the types of attached units permitted in SR-6. He also said detailed standards for ADUs — including setbacks and size limits — were not finalized at the planning level and that staff would follow up with clarification before the Nov. 11 second reading.

Ordinance No. 15-38 would create a new Small-Scale Residential district intended to allow a mix of low-density multiunit housing types while attempting to preserve neighborhood character. Barr said the proposal would give the zoning administrator authority to approve routine applications that meet five enumerated elements, and the Planning Commission recommended that applicants have the right to appeal denials to the commission.

Both items were presented as first readings only; no final votes on the ordinances were taken on Oct. 28.

Council members asked procedural and technical questions during the presentations. Alderman Spiroz asked whether tiny homes or size limits were part of the ADU discussion; Barr said no size cap was specified in the ordinance draft and that normal zoning requirements (setbacks, etc.) would apply. Alderman Tompkins asked for clarification on whether ADUs would be allowed by right or require conditional use permits; Barr said that issue would be clarified in staff follow-up prior to the Nov. 11 second reading.

If adopted, the changes would alter permitted housing types and density rules in affected SR-6 areas and establish an alternative, more-flexible district intended for small-scale residential projects.