AgdaPkt 2000-02-28 - Laserfiche WebLink

Browse Search

ßA-\/ page 1 Attachment 6 Options Other Cities Consider for Regulation of Second Units 1. Background Definition - An accessory dwelling is an attached or detached residential unit (secondary dwelling unit) on the same lot as the primary dwelling unit which provides complete, independent living facilities for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation provided that it complies with the requirements of Article 37. The State of California requires that cities permit accessory living units in residential zones. The original intent of the State legislation was to increase the supply of affordable housing, particularly for those with special needs, such as the elderly - thus, the name "granny units." The concept expanded to encompass all age groups - thus, accessory living units. Today in the S.F Bay Area, this housing may be more affordable than a living unit that is not an accessory unit; but it is most likely to be comparably priced ( or greater) to the same number of square feet of living space located in an apartment building. In support of this view, the State Department of Housing and Community Development (tiCD) will not count accessory living units as below market rate housing when determining whether a city has met its regional fair share quota of housing unless the rent is controlled and set at below market rates. Several benefits of second living units are . The land owner's revenue stream is enhanced. . The supply of housing is increased. . The needs of certain segments of the community may be met, such as the elderly, adult family members, and handicapped. . Flexibility may be provided to the land owner who may want to move to a smaller unit without selling the property. (The recommended change in Redwood City's ordinance would permit this.) The City adopted regulations for accessory dwelling units, which were effective on 9/26/91. Accessory dwellings are conditionally permitted uses in all residentially zoned districts (RH, R-1, R-2, R-3, R-4, R-5). They may not be sold separately from the main house, and may be rented. 2. Options for Ordinances When cities choose to accommodate a larger population and/or a population with particular needs by permitting accessory living units, they limit the impacts to the neighbors by constructing their ordinances with some of the following measures. The measures aim to promote or maintain compatibility between neighboring properties and preserve the integrity of the single-family neighborhood. . Permit units on a standard size lot (or larger), but not on a substandard size lot. . .-.--.... '~"'-T'--"'"