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Aston Township adopts zoning change to define “family” and create reasonable‑accommodation process for disabilities
Summary
The Aston Township Board of Commissioners voted to amend its zoning ordinance to revise the definition of “family,” add a formal definition of “reasonable accommodation,” and empower the zoning hearing board to grant accommodations under federal law; the ordinance takes effect within five days of adoption.
The Aston Township Board of Commissioners on a voice vote adopted an amendment to the township’s 2011 zoning ordinance that revises the definition of “family” and establishes a process for requests for reasonable accommodations under the Fair Housing Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Solicitor Mike Madryn explained the change during a public hearing, saying the amendment will require people or providers seeking to house more than four unrelated individuals to apply for a reasonable accommodation so the township can review neighborhood impacts such as parking and traffic while respecting federally protected rights. “It also redefines family in a way that someone can't come in and operate a residential use that includes more than four unrelated people without requesting that reasonable accommodation,” Madryn said.
The ordinance text spells out what constitutes a reasonable accommodation — a change, exception or adjustment to a rule, policy, practice or service necessary for a person with a disability to use and enjoy a dwelling — and directs the zoning hearing board to evaluate requests, declining any that would fundamentally alter the program or create an undue financial or administrative burden on the township. The ordinance also includes language intended to discourage conversion of single‑family neighborhoods into de facto short‑term rental districts.
Commissioner Burry read the ordinance language as presented; the board approved the measure on a voice vote. The ordinance states it will become effective within five days of enactment.
Why it matters: the change creates a formal local procedure for handling accommodation requests required by federal law and narrows an existing definition of “family,” which could affect how home‑based supportive housing and multi‑occupant residences are regulated in neighborhoods. The board’s action was framed as balancing compliance with federal disability protections and managing neighborhood impacts.
The board received no public opposition at the hearing. The township solicitor and staff said applicants must comply with applicable county and state regulations when seeking accommodations or making residential changes.
Next steps: the ordinance is effective within five days; the zoning hearing board will be the point of application and review for future accommodation requests.
