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Commission approves building-standards code amendments with direction to staff to study RM districts
Summary
After debate over narrow-street/ alley protections and setback changes, the commission approved staff recommendations on building standards and directed staff to analyze applying similar controls to RM districts; an earlier motion failed before the amended motion passed 4–1.
The Planning Commission voted April 11 to approve a package of planning-code amendments intended to refine buildable area and bulk controls on narrow streets and to permit accessory dwelling units (backyard cottages) on certain corner and through lots, with instructions that staff study how similar controls could be applied in RM residential districts.
Kyle Smiley of Supervisor Rafael Mandelmann’s office framed the proposal as a balance between housing density and neighborhood character, describing efforts to tailor front setbacks and to legalize backyard cottages where appropriate. Planning staff noted concerns about some language that could be read as enabling private-view claims and recommended clarifying or removing that language.
Tom Radulovich of Livable City and other public commenters supported legalization of smaller backyard cottages and adding green-space protections for rear yards; other commenters urged additional safeguards. Commissioners debated the geographic scope and whether the measures should apply to RM zones. An initial motion to adopt staff recommendations failed 3–1; a subsequent motion to approve staff recommendations and direct staff to analyze applicability to RM districts was approved 4–1 (Commissioner Moore dissenting). The direction will require staff follow-up research and potential amendments prior to the Board of Supervisors hearing.
