Council advances second reading of multiple zoning-code amendments including ADU rules and visitor-parking minimums

The Pleasant Hill City Council approved Second Reading of Ordinances #975, #976 and #977 on Sept. 8, 2026, advancing a package of amendments to Chapters 165, 167 and 169 of the City Code. Senior Planner Brian Dunkelberger told the council the changes would "update the Accessory Dwelling Unit regulations in accordance with Senate File 2369 enacted April 9, 2026" and would also define when and where ADUs are allowed and how size is measured.

The amendments also allow open-style pergolas and trellises adjacent to a primary structure, permit corrugated metal as a fence material in rear and side yards of industrial districts, and increase retaining-wall face height when supported by a structural engineer's design. Dunkelberger said the update to Chapter 169 establishes minimum visitor-parking requirements for new duplex, townhome and multifamily residential developments and adds a new parking category for senior/independent multifamily properties. The Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval on Aug. 3, 2026; the council voted 5-0 to approve the second reading.