Draft code would raise some residential height limits, remove lot‑coverage rule and standardize setbacks

Consultants told the joint meeting that most residential densities in the draft code carry forward existing allowances, but several development standards would be adjusted to reflect recent approvals and streamline future reviews.

Martha Miller said one explicit change is in a medium‑high density residential zone: "The height limit is proposed to be changed from 30 feet maximum to 35 feet maximum," reflecting recent general development plan approvals and the need to accommodate allowed density.

Staff also proposed graduated setbacks tied to lot size so smaller lots have smaller required setbacks while larger lots have larger setbacks, and the draft would remove a separate story limitation (which had been redundant with height limits). The presentation explained that lot coverage standards have been dropped in many cases because setbacks, parking requirements and other standards already regulate development form.

Council members asked how the changes would affect ADUs and nonconforming sites. Staff said the ADU ordinance recently updated by the city will be incorporated into the new code. Nonconforming residential uses would largely be allowed to maintain and in some cases expand existing footprints provided no new dwelling units are created, and nonconforming nonresidential uses generally would not be allowed to expand.