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Sunset planning commission tables group‑home zoning changes, assigns research task
Summary
Commissioners discussed several existing single‑family homes operating as group homes, debated conditional‑use approaches and licensing, and unanimously voted to table code changes while a subcommittee researches other cities' models and oversight options.
The Sunset Planning Commission on Dec. 11 heard staff reports that several existing residential properties appear to be operating as group homes and discussed how to define and regulate those uses in the city's zoning code.
Why it matters: commissioners said the city currently lacks clear language to allow or disallow group homes in residential zones, which complicates enforcement and oversight for behavioral‑health and assisted‑living providers operating in single‑family neighborhoods.
Key points from discussion: staff reported finding four to five properties the city believes are functioning as group homes and said police had responded to calls at some of those addresses. Staff recommended making group homes a conditional use so the city could attach conditions and, if necessary, revoke permission for noncompliant operations. Staff said they had asked the police chief for input and relayed that the chief supported the conditional‑use approach as it would strengthen enforcement options.
Commissioners raised concerns about whether to allow for‑profit operators or limit group homes to nonprofits or agencies (for example, Davis Behavioral Health was cited as an existing nonprofit owner), and whether assisted‑living or eldercare facilities should remain in commercial zones. Several commissioners said they prefer models in which an organization (rather than an individual homeowner) operates the facility to ensure oversight and licensing.
Next steps and outcome: commissioners agreed to form a small working group to review ordinances from neighboring cities and to present recommended language at a future meeting. Commissioner Mike Hartwick accepted an assignment to research examples and report back. The commission moved, seconded and voted unanimously to table the item pending that research.
