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Planning commission approves package of ADU code changes with modifications
Summary
After hours of testimony and amendments, the Planning Commission on May 4 approved a package of accessory dwelling unit (ADU) ordinance changes and staff recommendations with specified modifications, voting 6–1 on a motion that incorporated supervisor Peskin’s changes except for a density‑appropriateness cap.
San Francisco’s Planning Commission voted May 4 to adopt a set of planning code changes meant to expand and clarify rules for accessory dwelling units (ADUs), the compact apartments often called “granny flats.” The commission approved a motion, 6–1, that accepted most of the amendments offered by Supervisor Aaron Peskin’s office while removing one proposal to impose new density caps in low‑density neighborhoods.
Supporters said the package removes technical and procedural hurdles that prevent homeowners and building owners from producing legally permitted rental units. Planning staff emphasized provisions to harmonize local code with state ADU law, to allow certain ‘‘rooms‑down’’ conversions under tight controls, and to restore flexibility for seismic‑retrofit projects so owners can add ADUs as part of safety upgrades. Lee Hepner of Supervisor Peskin’s office walked commissioners through proposed language on temporary evictions, lot‑based counting of ADUs and safeguards for commercial‑space conversions.
Opponents—largely neighborhood groups from lower‑density districts—urged the commission to limit unlimited conversions in nonconforming multiunit buildings, arguing unlimited ADUs in low‑density areas could displace parking and alter block character. Several commissioners probed tradeoffs between allowing more units and preventing cumulative impacts. Commissioner Moore cast the lone dissent, citing unresolved questions about neighborhood impacts in RH‑zoned blocks. The motion carried after amended language that retains staff’s recommended safeguards and selects a staff option allowing limited ground‑floor envelope expansions subject to notice.
What happens next: the commission’s action sets the city on a path to change permit review practices and definitions that staff said will reduce delay and cost for many ADU proposals. Several commissioners and members of the public urged continuing work at the state level on open‑space and play‑area rules that remain binding for licensed child occupancy in small, dense lots.
