Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Housing Policy topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board narrows ADU amendment after debate, approves detached ADUs in R‑18/R‑30/RA with 18,000 sq ft minimum
Summary
After extended discussion and public comment, the Planning & Zoning Board rejected a city‑wide change but passed an amendment allowing detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in R‑18, R‑30 and RA zones where lots are at least 18,000 square feet; the regulation retains an 800‑sq‑ft maximum and one ADU per property.
The Milford Planning & Zoning Board on July 7 wrestled with a petition to amend section 3.1.0.7 of the zoning regulations to permit detached accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Attorney Thomas Lynch presented the application for property owner Christopher L'Oreal, explaining it was prompted by a long‑standing detached garage apartment at the North Street property and seeking a targeted change to allow detached ADUs where lot sizes are large.
The discussion focused on three choices: (1) adopt a broad city‑wide allowance, (2) limit detached ADUs to only R‑18, R‑30 and RA zones with a large‑lot minimum, or (3) leave the 2023 attached‑only language in place. Board members and staff clarified that existing ADU rules require owner occupancy, that the maximum accessory apartment size in the local regulations is 800 square feet, and that only one accessory apartment is permitted per primary dwelling.
Attorney Lynch said the proposed language used “may be allowed” to preserve additional review criteria; staff described the zoning code’s current ADU requirements (no exterior doors on the principal dwelling ADU, owner occupancy, one accessory apartment per dwelling, and an 800‑sq‑ft cap). Dozens of residents and several board members raised parking and safety concerns for smaller lots, while advocates argued detached ADUs add affordable, age‑friendly and multigenerational housing options.
The board first voted down a motion that would have allowed detached ADUs across “all residential zones.” It then approved an amended motion to permit a detached ADU as an accessory dwelling unit in R‑18, R‑30 and RA zones where minimum lot area is 18,000 square feet or greater, and to limit any property to one accessory dwelling unit. The vote passed by majority; one board member opposed.
The adopted change preserves the ADU program’s existing standards — including the 800‑square‑foot maximum and owner‑occupancy requirement — while opening the three large‑lot residential zones to detached ADUs subject to those conditions.
