Council debates WUI standards, setbacks and ADU limits after state changes

Planner Beth Fuchs presented revised options to address wildfire risk on lots bordering wildlands, noting recent state changes constrain municipal prohibitions on clearing vegetation.

"HB 215 that was passed by the state does have some changes to WUI standards that we're not allowed to, prohibit residents from clearing vegetation if they're within the WUI boundaries," Fuchs said, and she described draft maps and two possible approaches: a 30-foot defensible-space setback from wildlands or a 30-foot spacing requirement between structures. Fuchs also discussed a lot-size approach that would preserve 30 feet of defensible space for properties with larger rear setbacks.

Council members probed how accessory dwelling units (ADUs) would be treated; Fuchs said current code ties ADU setbacks to the primary dwelling and that the proposed approach would apply only to lots adjacent to wildlands rather than all unbuilt areas. Members raised fairness concerns for homeowners asked to provide temporary mitigation tied to future development, suggested plat notations so buyers know they are in the WUI, and asked staff to coordinate with developers on design review to reduce long-term hazard.