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Bolton PZC discusses loosening rules for accessory dwelling units
Summary
Commissioners reviewed questions about allowing accessory dwelling units, including living space above detached garages, and requested sample regulations from Mansfield and neighboring towns; no regulatory changes were adopted.
The Bolton Planning & Zoning Commission discussed accessory dwelling units (ADUs) at its Oct. 14 meeting but took no formal action.
Consulting Director Patrice Carson and Zoning Enforcement Officer Jim Rupert said they had received multiple inquiries about converting space above detached garages to living units. Carson said the State is moving toward allowing accessory apartments as-of-right provided units are under 1,200 square feet and meet building code requirements. Commissioners identified sewer, water and fire-code issues as constraints.
Thomas Manning said the commission should look at adjusting regulations to make ADUs easier to permit while ensuring minimum property standards that would prevent substandard units. Chairman Adam Teller voiced concern that allowing detached-garage ADUs could be exploited as housing for workers and could create substandard living conditions without safeguards. Rupert and Rodney Fournier raised septic and accessibility concerns (units above garages would not be handicapped accessible).
Carson said she would distribute Mansfield’s recently adopted ADU regulations and survey other Fairfield County and western Connecticut towns with more developed rules to inform a future discussion. No amendments or motions were made at the meeting.
