Council discusses ADUs, lot-size thresholds and possible state action

Council members and planning staff discussed accessory dwelling units (ADUs) as a near-term tool for increasing housing supply.

Planning staff explained the city's existing ADU ordinance allows detached and internal ADUs and noted varying lot-size ranges across neighborhoods: "The options were 2 to 8, I think. 2 to 4, 6, and 8... there were a lot of 4 and 6," said S5 describing sticker results from the open house. Council members flagged that some lots measure around 7,800—sq ft while others fall in the 9,000—range, and several raised that recent legislative discussion could mandate smaller minimums (for example, 6,000 sq ft) for ADUs.

Members also discussed how the city's form-based code controls density indirectly through parking, setbacks and building height, which complicates applying a numeric density bonus. Staff suggested examining options such as allowing bonus density via master development agreements or exploring changes to lot-size and ownership tools (like enabling splits or twin-house ownership) to facilitate ownership opportunities without necessarily adding unit counts. No ordinance changes were adopted during the work session; staff will continue to analyze code options and potential impacts of state action.