Multi-Family ADU

ADU Types

An accessory dwelling unit can be permitted on lots zoned for residential (including residential mixed-use) and developed with existing attached multi-family dwelling units as follows, provided the applicant builds under either subparagraph (a) or (b), but not both:

  1. At least one accessory dwelling unit and up to 25 percent of the existing multi-family dwelling units shall be allowed for multiple accessory dwelling units within portions of existing multifamily dwelling structures that are not used as livable space, including, but not limited to, storage rooms, boiler rooms, passageways, attics, basements, or garages, if each unit complies with state building standards for dwellings; or
  2. No more than two detached accessory dwelling units with a height limit of 16 feet and minimum 4- foot side and rear setbacks.

Development Standards

1. CONVERTED ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS.

a. Unit Size.

i. Minimum unit size: None

ii. Maximum unit size: None

b. Setback Requirements. No setbacks shall be required for an existing living area or accessory structure converted to an accessory dwelling unit, or a new structure reconstructed in the same location and to the same dimension as an existing structure unless it is required to provide sufficient fire safety.

c. Building Separation. No minimum building separation requirement.

d. Separate Access. An accessory dwelling unit shall provide separate exterior access from the existing primary residence. Entry doors cannot be on the same façade as the entry door of the primary residence, unless this requirement prevents creation of the accessory dwelling unit.

e. Windows and Doors for Historic Properties. Windows and doors (including opening and garage doors) for historic properties that are original to the structure are required to be retained, unless this requirement prevents creation of the accessory dwelling unit.

2. NEWLY CONSTRUCTED ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS.

a. Unit Size.

i. Minimum unit size: No less than 150 square feet in size

ii. Maximum unit size:

a) For parcels less than 10,000 square feet in size: All newly constructed, detached accessory dwelling units shall not exceed 850 square feet, except for an accessory dwelling unit that provides more than one bedroom the accessory dwelling unit shall not exceed 1,000 square feet.

b) For parcels equal to or greater than 10,000 square feet in size: All newly constructed, detached accessory dwelling units shall not exceed 850 square feet, except for an accessory dwelling unit that provides more than one bedroom the accessory dwelling unit shall not exceed 1,200 square feet.

b. Site Planning. A detached accessory dwelling unit shall be located behind the rear building line of the primary residence, and be clearly subordinate by location and size, so long as it does not prohibit an accessory dwelling unit of at least 800 square feet.

c. Setback Requirement. The minimum required setback shall comply with Section 17.22.040, with the following exceptions:

Side (Corner & Interior) Setback Rear Setback
ADU ≤ 800 SF 4 ft 4 ft
ADU > 800 SF 10% of lot width

(Min. 5 ft, max. 10 ft)

 10 ft
ADU constructed on top of an attached garage 5 ft 5 ft

 

d. Building Separation. A minimum building separation of six feet shall be maintained (eave to eave) between the primary residence and detached accessory dwelling unit.

e. Maximum Height. A newly constructed, detached accessory dwelling unit shall be limited to a height of one story, not to exceed 12 feet to the top plate and 17 feet to the highest ridgeline.