Planning commission backs zoning changes to implement San Bruno's housing element, debates ADU design rules

The San Bruno Planning Commission recommended that the City Council adopt zoning-code amendments to implement the city's adopted housing element and to update Title 12 to conform with recent state law changes.

Michael Smith, Planning Department staff, opened the presentation by saying the amendments are "phase one" of Program 11 and are intended to update definitions and code sections to reflect state law, including new entries for low-barrier navigation centers, single-room-occupancy units, emergency shelters and residential care facilities. He told commissioners the package also addresses parking, reasonable-accommodation findings and the density-bonus approach, and moves toward referencing state law where legislative changes are frequent.

Why it matters: the state has recently expanded ADU allowances and adjusted ADU-related development rules. Staff told the commission the local code must be updated to avoid conflict with state law and to preserve the city's ability to administer objective standards consistently.

Key changes and staff recommendations

- ADU quantity and…