Skagway planning commission weighs setbacks, triplex rules and code update to ease housing shortage

The Skagway Planning and Zoning Commission met in a May 4, 2026 work session to review a proposed ordinance that would relax setbacks and allow certain residential uses, including triplexes and smaller accessory housing units, as commissioners and public presenters pressed for tools to expand in-town housing.

The discussion opened with the Chair saying the commission convened to revisit a draft originally presented April 9 and to consider whether to recommend the assembly adopt a newer International Building Code. "We are here to look at the proposed amendment, which is an ordinance to revising the setbacks and allowing certain residential uses," the Chair said. Commissioner Hillis argued adopting a more recent IBC would "free up a lot of stuff" and allow modern building options such as tiny homes and container conversions.

Two community presenters detailed housing pressures. Josh Hunter said he and a co-author produced suggested changes after "persistent calls from the…