Daytona Beach will return with itemized ADU fee breakdown after commissioners raise affordability concerns

Commissioners at the Dec. 17 Daytona Beach City Commission meeting raised concerns that impact fees and other charges make accessory dwelling units (ADUs) difficult or impossible for homeowners to afford.

Commissioner Henry pressed staff for concrete numbers, saying the fees as currently applied have made ADUs "unattainable" for many residents who had supported the concept as a pathway to modest income and additional affordable rental units. Deputy City Manager Jim Morris said a comprehensive rate study concluded about a year ago produced the current fee schedule that went into effect Dec. 1, and that impact fee changes require a formal study and cannot be unilaterally adjusted by staff.

Morris and other staff committed to returning with an itemized memorandum that breaks down the components of ADU costs and fees, including connection charges related to water and sewer, impact fees, and permit schedules. The deputy manager told the commission staff will re‑review the video record and produce a written response for the commission's second meeting in January.

Commissioners and staff also discussed program design elements — for example, that impact‑fee waivers in redevelopment areas can apply in certain circumstances but ADUs do not automatically qualify. Commissioners asked staff to provide full fee schedules and identify any existing waivers or exceptions.