Portola Valley planners propose ADU code rewrite to meet state rules; commissioners, residents debate size, setbacks and indemnity

Portola Valley planning staff presented a bundled set of zoning-code amendments at a study session on a draft ADU/JADU ordinance, emergency-shelter standards and a developer indemnification provision, saying the changes are intended to bring the town into compliance with recent state legislation and HCD guidance. "This meeting will be an opportunity to ask questions and also provide comments," said Sarah, Portola Valley's planning and building director, adding that the session was informational and no vote would be taken.

Brandon Ducas, a consultant senior planner with Good City, told the commission staff had drafted a standalone ADU chapter to make the rules easier to find and to align the town's standards with a series of state bills and HCD interpretations. He said the town received an HCD non-compliance letter in 2023 and that HCD's technical assistance letters and handbook have given the agency expanded interpretive authority. "The state loves to change ADU law," Ducas said, describing why staff recommended a separate ADU chapter to keep the main ordinance clearer for users.

Key elements of the proposal include: allowing ADUs in all residential districts or on sites with residential use; restricting single-family lots to two additional units (ADU/JADU combinations); permitting up to eight…