Planning commission recommends second driveway exception for ADU at 1720 E. 6670 S.

The Cottonwood Heights Planning Commission voted April 1 to recommend that the City Council approve a conditional use permit exception that would allow a separate second driveway at 1720 East 6670 South to serve an internal accessory dwelling unit (ADU).

Planner Emma summarized staff findings and said the homeowner, Jared Park, is pursuing an ADU that "requires an additional parking spot" and that a second, separate driveway would minimize removal of mature trees and reduce unnecessary site disturbance. Emma told the commission staff recommends approval with conditions including that the driveway be built in substantial conformance with the approved site plan, that required building and right-of-way permits be obtained, and that sight-distance triangles be maintained.

The applicant, identified in the packet as Jared Park, told commissioners the large trees near the proposed driveway "add some beauty to the neighborhood" and that shrubs closest to the driveway would be removed so they "don't obstruct line of sight." He asked the commission to preserve the trees while allowing reasonable ADU access.

Commissioners discussed whether similar exceptions could be handled administratively in the future; the chair referenced a prior work session and suggested proposing code amendments to allow staff-level approvals in some cases to save staff time. Commissioner Shelton moved to recommend the project to the city council; the motion was seconded and passed on a roll call vote.

The commission’s recommendation is advisory; final approval requires a council decision and completion of any required permits and engineering review. The staff conditions adopted by the commission require the applicant to obtain all building and right-of-way permits and to maintain safe sight-distance at the driveway entrance.