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Council approves change allowing accessory structures to match principal dwelling height
Summary
The council approved a code amendment to let detached accessory structures (garages) match the height of a principal dwelling rather than be capped at 18 feet; the change aligns Franklin with neighboring jurisdictions and allows ADU-compatible structures where zoning permits.
Franklin City Council approved a zoning code amendment on Jan. 12 that allows accessory structures to be as tall as the principal dwelling on the same property instead of the prior fixed 18-foot limit.
Planning staff presented the change as an effort to align Franklin with surrounding jurisdictions and to make the city more competitive for prospective residents. The planning commission recommended approval by a 3–2 vote; staff said the amendment does not change rules governing principal dwellings and that existing setbacks and rear-yard maximums remain in force.
Council members asked whether a taller garage could contain livable space. Mr. Carter said accessory structures must meet the city's regulations and that where the city's ADU (accessory dwelling unit) ordinance allows, a structure meeting height and zoning requirements could contain living space; for unusual cases where a garage would be on a separate lot the staff recommended a special-use permit rather than a uniform code change.
The public hearing drew no speakers and the council voted to adopt the amendment. The staff will process permits under the revised height standard and handle any special-use permit requests on a case-by-case basis.
