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Commission changes ADU siting rule to ease placement on atypical lots
Summary
The commission approved Ordinance O-2526-51 to change the accessory-dwelling-unit (ADU) definition, allowing ADUs to be no further forward than the principal structure rather than restricted to the rear 25% of the lot, addressing siting challenges for irregular lots.
The Planning Commission unanimously approved an amendment to the zoning code definition of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) to ease placement on lots with atypical layouts.
Laura Hoggett of the planning department explained the proposed change would replace the current requirement that an ADU be located within the rear 25% of the principal-dwelling unit with a standard that the ADU not be located further forward than the principal structure. The change is intended to accommodate lots where the primary residence sits far back on the parcel or where topography and lot shape make the 25% rule impractical. Staff said ADUs remain limited in size (650 square feet) and must be subordinate to the principal structure.
Commissioners asked about corner-lot frontage, the difference between ADUs and garage apartments, and whether future code updates might broaden ADU allowances into other zones. Staff said 23 ADUs have been permitted to date and that a full code assessment and zoning-code update are planned this summer; further changes could be considered via that process.
The commission approved the ordinance 7-0.
