The Salt Lake City Council recently approved changes to the City's Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) rules to provide more flexibility to residents who want to build ADUs on their properties. The changes to the ADU rules make it easier for residents to build a ADU and increase the number of ADUs in the city. In this blog post, we will discuss the newly approved changes and how they may affect homeowners.
Allowing ADUs in Several Commercial Areas
The new rules allow the construction of ADUs in several commercial areas, transit station districts, form-based, and downtown zoning districts. This change provides more flexibility to homeowners who want to build an ADU and welcome guests, renters, or family members. The change also aligns with the city's goal to increase the number of affordable housing units in the city.
Allowing ADUs on some non-residential properties or on properties with apartment buildings.
Previously, ADUs were only allowed on properties with single-family homes. The new rules allow homeowners to build an ADU on some non-residential properties or on properties with apartment buildings. This change provides more housing options and encourages the development of smaller, more affordable units that meet the needs of different household types.
Removing the Rule for Approval from the Planning Commission
The new rules eliminate the need for property owners to get approval from the Planning Commission before building a detached ADU. Instead, the approval process is now streamlined and easier. The change is aimed at reducing bureaucracy, making the process more accessible to homeowners, and encouraging the development of more ADUs in the city.
Requiring the Installation of Lighting
The new rules also require the installation of lighting on detached ADUs near a public alley to help increase safety and user-friendliness. This change is in line with the city's goal of creating safe and livable neighborhoods that encourage walking and biking.
Removing the Rule on Height Restrictions
The old rule stated that an ADU cannot be taller than the primary house or building. The new rules remove this height restriction, giving homeowners more design and construction options. It also aligns with the city's strategy of supporting more sustainable and compact development and reducing sprawl.
Updating City Code
The Salt Lake City Council updated the city code to align it with state law. This change eliminates any confusion or discrepancies between state and local law, making the process of building an ADU more straightforward for homeowners.
Increasing the Maximum Size of a Detached ADU
Under the new rules, the maximum size of a detached ADU is increased from 650 to 1000 square feet. This change provides homeowners with more living space options and encourages the development of larger, more comfortable living spaces.
Prohibiting ADUs from Being Used for Short-term Rentals
Lastly, the new rules prohibit ADUs from being used for short-term rentals, such as Airbnb. This change is aimed at preventing the loss of long-term rental units and ensuring that ADUs provide affordable housing options for residents.
The new rules make it easier for residents to build ADUs and increase the number of affordable housing units in the city. The changes align with the city's goal of creating safe, sustainable, and livable neighborhoods that meet the housing needs of different households. Interested in building an ADU on your property? Learn more about how you can get started today!
