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Falls Church debates accessory-dwelling overhaul: staff proposes by-right ADUs, commissioners push owner-occupancy and short-term-rental limits
Summary
Staff proposed allowing accessory-dwelling units (ADUs) by right in R‑1 districts with a size cap (1,000 sq ft or 50% of the primary dwelling), no new off‑street parking requirement and a graduated height tied to setbacks; commissioners urged owner‑occupancy limits, prohibitions or minimum terms for short‑term rentals, and asked staff to explore fee scaling and fiscal measures to support affordable housing.
City staff presented a revised framework and draft zoning text (TO 24‑17) to allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in Falls Church’s R‑1A and R‑1B districts. The proposal would permit one ADU per lot and limit its size to the lesser of 1,000 square feet or 50% of the principal dwelling’s gross floor area; staff recommended no new off‑street parking requirement and no owner‑occupancy mandate.
Key elements of the staff proposal: Jack Trainor and other planning staff advised that detached ADUs would have height tied to setbacks (for example, up to 20 feet/1.5 stories at a 5‑foot setback and up to 25 feet/2 stories at a 10‑foot setback), would not be permitted in front yards and would require a minimum 10‑foot separation between primary and accessory…
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