Huachuca City council opens discussion on tiny homes and ADU rules

Huachuca City’s Town Council on Jan. 29 opened discussion on whether to allow tiny homes and accessory dwelling units (ADUs) within town limits. Dr. Jim Johnson presented a recap explaining that tiny homes can be classified as ADUs and outlined proposed regulatory elements: only one ADU per single-family lot; ADUs may be attached or detached; ADUs must be accessed from the main street (not from the alley); ADUs cannot be subdivided or separately owned from the primary dwelling; each ADU must be served by the same water, sewer and electric utility providers and meters as the primary house; each ADU shall have a separate and independent entrance; ADUs must meet the same design standards as the primary house; and the primary house must meet minimum property/building maintenance standards before an ADU can be approved.

The presentation also noted an option to consider lowering side-yard setbacks, stating: "Lowering side setbacks from 7' to 5' or 3'." The council moved to open Item B.1 for discussion (motion by Mayor Johann R. Wallace, seconded by Councilmember Christy Hirshberg). The minutes record the item as opened for discussion; no final ordinance, vote, or directive committing staff to a specific draft is recorded in these minutes. The agenda language indicated the council "may give direction to staff on these subjects for action at subsequent Council meetings," leaving a next step that could include staff drafting regulatory changes.