Committee advances ADU code changes to allow non-owner-occupied units, alter parking rules

The committee recommended approval on second reading of an amendment to the Unified Development Code that removes the owner-occupancy requirement for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and adjusts parking rules.

Planning staffer Seth Lloyd told the committee the change would eliminate the owner-occupancy requirement and redefine parking so that required spaces could be anywhere on the property (for example, a three-car driveway), giving more flexibility. Lloyd said that removing owner-occupancy will make many ADUs functionally equivalent to flat-over-flat duplexes and therefore subject to building- and fire-code standards for duplexes.

Council members raised safety and enforcement questions. One member asked whether basement ADUs would be required to meet egress-window standards; Lloyd said building code typically requires egress for sleeping areas in new construction, though existing-buildings rules can be more flexible and specific questions should be addressed to the building official. Councilwoman Rennie said she would vote no at this time because she had unanswered questions for the building department.

Habitat for Humanity of Laramie County’s executive director, Dan Doris, told the committee he supported the amendment as a way to add housing units in the community.

The committee voted to recommend approval on second reading; the recommendation will proceed to the full council. Staff and the planning commission had recommended approval and attached letters of support.