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Roy commission reviews SB 284 implications; keeps 11,000‑sq‑ft threshold for detached ADUs for now
Summary
Staff briefed the commission on state law (SB 284) that requires allowing detached ADUs on lots 11,000 sq ft or larger and on discretionary items (smaller lots, unit size, parking, setbacks, conversions). The commission leaned to retain the 11,000‑sq‑ft threshold and asked staff to draft code amendments addressing size limits, setbacks and building‑code issues for a future hearing.
Roy City planning staff on May 26 walked commissioners through local implications of Senate Bill 284, a state law that requires cities to allow detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on lots at least 11,000 square feet, and asked for direction on how Roy should implement discretionary elements.
"Senate Bill 284 was a big one," staff said, warning that certain requirements go into effect Oct. 1. Staff summarized mandatory and optional items: the state allows detached ADUs on lots 11,000 sq ft and cities may choose to allow them on smaller lots; unit size, parking requirements, setbacks, and whether to permit both internal and detached ADUs were all open for local determination.
Commissioners discussed size caps (existing code limits accessory buildings to 1,250 sq ft or 25% of the rear yard in some zones), parking formulas (one stall for units under 650 sq ft; two stalls for larger units), and building‑code implications if conversions require firewall upgrades or separate meters. Several commissioners said they preferred to keep Roy’s 11,000‑sq‑ft threshold for now because many local lots are smaller and the change would be applicable in only a few neighborhoods.
On setbacks and neighbor impacts, commissioners noted the tradeoffs between allowing smaller setbacks to enable conversions and the cost of required fire‑rated construction. Commissioners also favored limiting ADU height and matching neighborhood character (many expressed preference for single‑story units in areas with rambler homes). Staff said they will prepare draft code language addressing unit size limits, parking, setbacks, and conversion standards for commission review and an anticipated public hearing before the SB 284 effective date.
No ordinance changes were adopted at the work session; staff will return with draft amendments and legal review.
