Rosemount Planning Commission approves variance to allow 1,000-sq-ft accessory dwelling at 2645 132nd Court West

The Rosemount Planning Commission on June 23 adopted a resolution allowing an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) of up to 1,000 square feet at 2645 132nd Court West, increasing the local maximum from 800 square feet.

Planning staff member Anthony told the commission the variance request stemmed from an existing, previously unpermitted duplex discovered when the owner applied for building permits. Staff said the unit proposed for the basement cannot be feasibly reduced to the 800-square-foot limit, and that at 1,000 square feet the ADU would still be less than 75% of the primary dwelling (about 58%), a factor that supports the variance under the zoning standards.

"The action tonight is simply to allow an ADU up to 1,000 square feet at the address of the subject property. No more than that," Anthony said. Staff also reminded the commission that the applicant will still need to complete the building-permit process and obtain a rental license before the unit can be rented.

Staff reported one written public comment in support; the applicant was not present at the meeting. Commissioners thanked staff for working through the case and discussed the legal finding that the property's circumstances are "unique" and not created by the current owner — a determination the commission said it would apply carefully to avoid creating a loophole for future property transactions.

Commissioner Reed moved to adopt the resolution approving the variance; Commissioner Ellis seconded, and the motion carried by voice vote. The variance approval does not replace the need for required building permits and rental licensing prior to occupancy.