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DBI outlines ADU permitting progress; commissioners press fire-department exiting and tenant-notice issues
Summary
DBI reported progress on the accessory dwelling unit (ADU) program with nearly 540 screening forms and about 100 permits issued; commissioners and public raised recurring concerns about sprinkler and egress requirements, inconsistent plan-check guidance and tenant notification, and asked staff to coordinate with Planning and Fire to resolve open technical issues.
Deputy Director Daniel Lawrie presented an overview of accessory dwelling units (ADUs), the permit workflow and code requirements. He reported approximately 540 screening forms have been submitted, 478 permits filed and roughly 100 permits issued or in active processing; 73 permits were listed as issued, with 12 projects completed and others in plan review.
Lawrie walked commissioners through code requirements including minimum ceiling heights, natural light and ventilation rules, and the need for emergency escape and rescue windows for bedrooms. He said a pre-application meeting with DBI and the fire department is recommended for projects that may raise safety concerns.
Commissioners and public commenters urged clarity on where sprinkler upgrades are required and whether equivalent protections (fire-rated passageways, protected exits) can enable ADUs without full building sprinklers in some cases. "It seems like the exit passageway is very important because when rescue comes in ... they have to have room for the ladders to come in," Lawrie said, noting ongoing work with Fire to find workable code equivalencies.
Advocates for seniors raised tenant-notification and displacement concerns, asking for clearer mandates on notifying tenants when common areas or storage are converted. Staff agreed to confirm Planning's notification procedures and to report back.
DBI said it will continue to work with the Fire Department on egress and sprinkler guidance to avoid unduly killing feasible ADU projects while preserving life-safety standards.
