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Planning commission backs ADU code changes with material and lot‑size clarifications
Summary
The commission recommended Jan. 7 that the city council adopt amendments to the detached accessory dwelling unit rules (Title 9‑8) with additional language allowing lot‑size exceptions and requiring ADUs be built of the same materials as the primary residence; commissioners debated height, setbacks and whether tiers should be based on lot size.
The Washington City Planning Commission on Jan. 7 recommended approval of amendments to the city’s detached accessory dwelling unit (ADU) ordinance (Title 9‑8). Staff proposed a tiered approach that retains 1,000‑square‑foot ADUs in smaller zones and allows up to 1,500 square feet in larger‑lot zones, changes maximum heights tied to setbacks (up to 25 feet where setbacks allow), reduces side/rear setbacks to 3 feet, and updates parking requirements.
Commissioners raised alternatives to strict zone‑based size tiers, suggesting exceptions based on lot size or primary residence square footage. Commissioner Davis and others recommended allowing qualifying lots to apply the larger‑unit standard if their lot size matches the larger zoning category. Commissioners also sought language requiring ADUs to be constructed of the same materials as the primary residence to prevent industrial‑looking structures being repurposed as dwellings.
Kerry Chamberlain, a resident, told the commission he was "shocked" by the proposal to reduce offsets from 5 feet to 3 feet and expressed concern that smaller setbacks could let adjacent property owners build large metal structures near residences. "I am shocked to hear that we're going from a 5 foot offset to a 3 foot offset," Chamberlain said during public comment.
Commissioner Anderson moved to recommend approval of the ADU amendments with a modification to move R‑1‑12 into the larger category (R‑1‑15) or to permit lot‑size exceptions, and to add a requirement that ADUs be constructed of the same materials as the primary residence; Commissioner Davis seconded. The motion passed by recorded voice vote. Staff will forward the commission’s recommendation and the suggested clarifications to city council for final action.
