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Council approves zoning amendments changing ADU limits and accessory-building setbacks
Summary
Council voted to amend Chapter 14 (zoning) to modify accessory dwelling unit (ADU) sizes (900 sq ft by-right; additional 600 sq ft via SUP; cap 1,500 sq ft), and to adjust accessory building/pool setbacks; changes were made as amended and approved on voice vote.
The Lucas City Council approved multiple amendments to the city's zoning code (Chapter 14) affecting accessory structures and ADUs.
Staff and councilors debated the by-right ADU size and maximums. Council agreed to a structure that allows a 900-square-foot ADU by right with an additional 600 square feet permitted through a Specific Use Permit (capped at 1,500 square feet total). Joe Hilburn (speaker 5) explained the 600/900 discussion reflected a desire to limit large, fully equipped second dwellings while still allowing reasonable accessory living spaces. "A 900 square foot ADU probably fits Lucas a little better," Hilburn said in the staff discussion (Joe Hilburn, speaker 5).
Council also adjusted setback language for pools and sports courts (side and rear setbacks discussed extensively); the final motion set consistent setbacks and updated cross-referenced paragraphs to ensure the 900/600 numbers were applied throughout the ordinance. The motion to approve the amendments as amended passed on a voice vote. Staff noted they would correct a handful of cross-references discovered during the meeting before final codification.
What this means: the amendment creates a two-step path for modest ADUs while retaining a review path for larger accessory units; it also tightens where accessory courts and pools can be located relative to property lines.
