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Council approves first reading of ADU code updates after debate over JADU parking
Summary
The council introduced revisions to Lompoc’s ADU rules to align with state law; councilors and residents clashed over a requirement to replace parking for junior ADUs, with critics saying the change would reduce affordability. The measure passed first reading, 4–1.
The Lompoc City Council introduced on first reading an update to the city’s accessory dwelling unit (ADU) ordinance intended to bring local code into compliance with recent state changes.
Planning manager Greg Stones told the council staff recommended changes to ADU and junior ADU (JADU) definitions, updated cross‑references, added a new section referencing the Starter Home Revitalization Act and clarified the number of ADUs allowed. “Since 2024, HCD has indicated our ADU ordinance is not in compliance,” Stones said, urging the council to adopt the amendments to avoid future conflicts with state law.
Council discussion focused on parking requirements for JADUs. Stones and the city attorney said the city agreed with most HCD findings but disagreed with HCD’s reading on one point about replacing parking when a garage is converted to a JADU. The city attorney told councilors the city believes it has a defensible position while acknowledging courts or the attorney general could ultimately resolve disputes.
Several residents urged caution. One speaker argued that requiring replacement parking “will, in essence, take the affordability out of providing a junior ADU,” noting the requirement can prevent some conversions. Council members debated the tradeoffs between neighborhood parking impacts and the housing affordability benefits of JADUs.
A motion to introduce the ordinance on first reading and waive further reading passed 4–1; the dissenting vote came from the council member who expressed concern about parking policy and its effect on affordability. The ordinance will next be forwarded in accordance with the standard adoption procedures and HCD review timelines.
Why it matters: ADUs and JADUs are a key local tool for producing lower‑cost housing options. Changes to parking requirements for conversions could materially alter how many JADUs are feasible, affecting small‑scale housing production in Lompoc.
Next steps: Staff said if the ordinance is adopted locally it will be provided to HCD, which has a 60‑day review period. The council voted to proceed on first reading and will schedule any future hearings as required.
