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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPlanning Commission 2017-07-25 Agenda Packet�pNA RAFAGENDA
►1, SAN RAFAEL PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
TUESDAY, July 25, 2017, 7:00 P.M.
s o COUNCIL CHAMBERS, CITY HALL, 1400 FIFTH AVENUE
C, 41 SAN RAFAEL, CALIFORNIA
CALL TO ORDER
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
RECORDING OF MEMBERS PRESENT AND ABSENT
APPROVAL OR REVISION OF ORDER OF AGENDA ITEMS
PUBLIC NOTIFICATION OF MEETING PROCEDURES
URGENT COMMUNICATION
Anyone with an urgent communication on a topic not on the agenda may address the Commission at this time. Please notify the
Community Development Director in advance.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Minutes July 11, 2017
PUBLIC HEARINGS
2. 703 — 723 Third St. and 898 Lincoln Avenue — Conceptual Design Review for redevelopment of two contiguous
Downtown parcels, currently developed with 15,000 sq. ft. of commercial space. The project proposes to
construct a new, 6 -story, 66 -tall, multifamily residential building with 138 rental units above 143 ground -floor
garage parking spaces. The project includes requests for height and density bonuses, and a front setback waiver;
APNS: 011-278-01 & -02; Second/Third Mixed Use East (2/3 MUE) District Zones; Wick Polite of Seagate
Properties, Inc., Applican't; 703 Third Street LP, Owners; Downtown Neighborhood Project Planner: Steve
Stafford
DISCUSSION ITEMS
3. Second Dwelling Unit/Accessory Dwelling Units — Study Session regarding revisions to the City's Accessory
(Second) Dwelling Unit Ordinance due to recent changes in State law governing Accessory Dwelling Units and
Junior Accessory Dwelling Units; Citywide, City of San Rafael, applicant, Case File(s): P1 7-009/ZO1 7-002.
Project Planner: Raffi Boloyan
OTHER BUSINESS
4. Election of new Officers (Chair and Vice Chair) due to recent vacancy.
DIRECTOR'S REPORT
COMMISSION COMMUNICATION
ADJOURNMENT
Next Meeting: August 15, 2017
I, Anne Derrick, hereby certify that on Friday, July 21, 2017, 1 posted a notice of the July 25, 2017 Planning Commission
meeting on the City of San Rafael Agenda Board.
• Sign interpreters and assistive listening devices may be requested by calling 415/485-3085 (voice) or 4151485-3198 (TDD) at least 72 hours in
advance. Copies of documents are available in accessible formats upon request.
• Public transportation to City Hall is available through Golden Gate Transit, Line 20 or 23. Paratransit is available by calling Whistlestop Wheels at
415/454-0964.
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from wearing scented oroducts.
Any records relating to an agenda item, received by a majority or more of the Agency Board less than 72 hours before the meeting, shall be available for inspection in the
Community Development Department, Third Floor, 1400 Fifth Avenue, and placed with other agenda -related materials on the table in front of the Council Chamber prior to
the meeting.
THE PLANNING COMMISSION WILL TAKE UP NO NEW BUSINESS AFTER 11:00 P.M. AT REGULARLY SCHEDULED MEETINGS. THIS SHALL BE INTERPRETED
TO MEAN THAT NO AGENDA ITEM OR OTHER BUSINESS WILL BE DISCUSSED OR ACTED UPON AFTER THE AGENDA ITEM UNDER CONSIDERATION AT
11:00 P. M. THE COMMISSION MAY SUSPEND THIS RULE TO DISCUSS AND/OR ACT UPON ANY ADDITIONAL AGENDA ITEM(S) DEEMED APPROPRIATE BY A
UNANIMOUS VOTE OF THE MEMBERS PRESENTAPPEAL RIGHTS: ANY PERSON MAY FILE AN APPEAL OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION'S ACTION ON
AGENDA ITEMS WITHIN FIVE BUSINESS DAYS (NORMALLY 5:00 P. M. ON THE FOLLOWING TUESDAY) AND WITHIN 10 CALENDAR DAYS OF AN ACTION ON A
SUBDIVISION. AN APPEAL LETTER SHALL BE FILED WITH THE CITY CLERK, ALONG WITH AN APPEAL FEE OF $350 (FOR NON -APPLICANTS) OR A $4,476
DEPOSIT (FOR APPLICANTS) MADE PAYABLE TO THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL, AND SHALL SET FORTH THE BASIS FOR APPEAL. THERE IS A $50.00
ADDITIONAL CHARGE FOR REQUEST FOR CONTINUATION OF AN APPEAL BY APPELLANT.
IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL, July 11, 2017
RA N
't y p'
Regular Meeting
San Rafael Planning Commission Minutes
For a complete video of this meeting, go to http://www.cityofsanrafael.org/meetings
CALL TO ORDER
Present: Larry Paul
Jack Robertson
Barrett Schaefer
Berenice Davidson, Acting Chair
Jeff Schoppert
Mark Lubamersky
Absent: Sarah Loughran
Also Present: Raffi Boloyan, Planning Manager
Steve Stafford, Senior Planner
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
RECORDING OF MEMBERS PRESENT AND ABSENT
APPROVAL OR REVISION OF ORDER OF AGENDA ITEMS
PUBLIC NOTIFICATION OF MEETING PROCEDURES
URGENT COMMUNICATION
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. Minutes June 27, 2017
Jack Robertson moved and Larry Paul seconded to approve minutes as presented. The vote is as
follows:
AYES: Larry Paul, Jack Robertson, Barrett Schaefer, Mark Lubamersky
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: Berenice Davidson, Jeff Schoppert
ABSENT: Sarah Loughran
PUBLIC HEARINGS
2. 23 Meyer Rd. (Temporary Address) – Request for an Environmental and Design Review
Permit to allow the construction of 3,570 sq. ft. new single-family residence and
associated site improvements (driveway, retaining walls, drainage and landscaping) on a
vacant, 93,857 sq. ft. (2.15 acre), hillside and ridgeline site; APN: 012-291-15; Single -Family
Residential -Hillside Development Overlay (R1a-H) District; Draper Revocable Trust, owner;
Jerome Draper, applicant; File No.ED15-027. Project Planner: Steve Stafford
Staff Report
Mark Lubamersky moved and Jack Robertson seconded to adopt resolution approving project with
modifications as outlined by staff. The vote is as follows:
AYES: Larry Paul, Jack Robertson, Barrett Schaefer, Berenice Davidson, Acting Chair, Jeff
Schoppert, Mark Lubamersky
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Sarah Loughran
DIRECTOR'S REPORT
COMMISSION COMMUNICATION
ADJOURNMENT:
ADJOURNMENT:
ANNE DERRICK, Administrative Assistant III
APPROVED THIS—DAY—OF - , 2017
Berenice Davidson, Acting Chair
Meeting Date:
SAN RAFAEL i Agenda Item:
THE CITY WITH A MISSION
Community Development Department — Planning Division
July 25, 2017
Case Numbers: CDR17-005
Project Planner: Steve Stafford / (415) 458-5048
REPORT TO PLANNING COMMISSION
SUBJECT: 703 — 723 Third St. and 898 Lincoln Avenue — Conceptual Design Review for
redevelopment of two contiguous Downtown parcels, currently developed with 15,000
sq. ft. of commercial space. The project proposes to construct a new, 6 -story, 66' -tall,
multifamily residential building with 138 rental units above 143 ground -floor garage
parking spaces. The project includes requests for height and density bonuses, and a
front setback waiver; APNS: 011-278-01 & -02; Second/Third Mixed Use East (2/3
MUE) District Zones; Wick Polite of Seagate Properties, Inc., Applicant; 703 Third Street
LP, Owners; Downtown Neighborhood
:EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Planning Commission (Commission) is requested to provide early feedback on a conceptual project
proposing to redevelopment and consolidation of two contiguous Downtown parcels. The conceptual
submittal proposes to construct a 6 -story, 66 -tall, multifamily residential building with 138 units above
143 garage parking spaces. The Design Review Board (Board) reviewed the concept project and
provided comments at their June 20, 2017 meeting, which is discussed in staff's report below.
The project will require the following approvals:
• A 'major' Environmental and Design Review Permit, for the new multifamily residential building;
• A Use Permit to allow: 1) Residential uses in a commercial (2/3 MUE) zoning district; and 2) A
Parking Modification to allow: A) The reduction in on-site parking, from 159 required parking
spaces to 143 proposed parking spaces; and B)The use of mechanical parking lifts to primarily
meet the parking requirement for the project; and
• A Lot Line Adjustment for the consolidation of the two contiguous parcels.
The concept project requests 12 ft. height bonus as a 'minor' concession under the State Density Bonus
law, which the City is required to grant if the project provides the required affordability (20% of max.
allowable density or 9 units based on 46 max. base density). The Planning entitlements would typically
require the Commission review and approval, based on the recommendations of the Board. However,
the project also proposes:
A 300% density bonus (92 units total); and
A waiver of the required 5' front setback.
Both of these requested modifications to development standards are also requested as 'major'
concessions' under the State Density Bonus law, which require the submittal of a financial pro forma by
the applicant. Due to the required financial pro forma, the project will require City Council (Council)
review and approval, based on the recommendations of the Board and Commission.
1 Where the applicant is requesting the modification or waiver of a development. standard or a zoning or architectural design
requirement, the applicant shall submit evidence demonstrating that the application of the subject standard or requirement would
preclude construction of the project at the densities provided for in California Government Code Section 65915 and that the
waiver or modification is necessary to make development of the project financially feasible.
REPORT TO PLANNING COMMISSION - Case No: CDR17-005 Page 2
Overall, staff is supportive of the addition of housing in this part of Downtown and. the project would
provide much needed housing near services and transit. Staff supports the proposed 6 -story scale of the
project, primarily based on the scale of the neighboring BioMarin campus which is 48-67' in height and
includes a height bonus. Although the City has not yet seen mechanical parking lifts in any projects,
these are trending in development projects in. other Bay Area communities.
Staff requests, however, the Commission review and provide comments on following specific aspects of
the concept project, which will be included with previous comments provided by the Board on the .
concept project to help guide the formal project submittal:
Density
The project requests a 300% density bonus (138 units where a max. 46 units allowed), where a max.
35% density bonus (17 units) is allowed by meeting the City's affordable housing requirement. The 300%
density bonus (92 units) is a 'major' concession under the State Density Bonus law, which requires the
applicant submit a financial pro format.
Mechanical Parking Lifts
The project proposes the installation and operation of mechanical parking lifts to meet its required
parking.
Ground -Floor Commercial
Under the Zoning Ordinance, residential use on the site is only allowed if part of mixed-use development.
This restriction is also supported by both adopted 'vision' documents (Downtown Vision and Downtown
Station Area Plan), which encourage ground -floor retain space, particularly along the Tamalpais Avenue
frontage, with no additional on-site parking required for the commercial space.
Building Design
Under the General Plan, the site is located within the "Hetherton ,Gateway" District of Downtown and
includes specific design recommends to "step back' upper floors of development. In addition, the Review
Criteria for Environmental and Design Review Permits recommends equal attention to architectural
design and detail along the facades of all elevation in sensitive locations. The project design significantly
diminishes articulation along the south building elevation, which has as much or greater public visibility
as the other three building elevations. Lastly, the adopted Downtown Design Guidelines recommends
re -orienting the building entrance, the lobby to the upper -story residences, to one of the more pedestrian -
friendly side streets, Tamalpais or Lincoln Avenues.
Sidewalk Projections
The proposed projections of the upper stories which include habitable space extending over the public
sidewalk Right -of -Way (ROW) is not something specifically allowed by City code and needs acceptance
by the Public Works Department (DPW). DPW will support limited encroachments over the sidewalk;
these projections, however, should be architectural features only and should not create living space into
the ROW. As a practical matter, DPW has not developed a permitting process to allow the creation of
private habitable space over the public sidewalk beyond the standard revocable licensing agreement
2 Pro forma information shall demonstrate to the city that the requested concession or incentive results in an identifiable,
financially sufficient, and actual cost reduction. The cost of reviewing any required pro forma data submitted as part of the
application in support of a request for a concession or incentive, including, but not limited to, the cost to the city of hiring a
consultant to review said pro forma, shall be borne by the applicant.
Building Scale
REPORT TO PLANNING COMMISSION - Case No: CDR17-005 Page 3
The proposed 6 -story scale complies with the height limits for the site, which includes a 12' height bonus
for meeting the project's affordable housing requirement. Is. the 6 -story scale appropriate given its close
proximity to the BioMarin campus which has a 4- to 6 -story scale?
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Commission receive the applicants presentation, accept public testimony,
discuss the concept including asking any questions of the applicant or members of the public or staff,
and provide comments on the conceptual project including any concerns of the Commission that need to
be addressed in formal application submittal.
;PROPERTY FACTS
Address/Location: 703 - 723 Third St. / 898 Parcel Number(s): 011-278-01 & -02
Lincoln Ave.
Property Size: 28,000 sf (combined) Neighborhood: Downtown
Site Characteristics
General Plan Designation I Zoning Designation Existing Land -Use
Project Site:
Second/Third St. Mixed-
Use (213 MU)
Second/Third St.
Mixed -Use East (213
MUE)
Commercial retail;
office
North:
Hetherton Office (HO)
HO
Private parking lot;
retail
South:
Lindaro Office (LO)
Planned Development
(1901)
BioMann parking
structure
East:
Public/Quasi-Public (P/QP)
P/QP
Bentini Transit Center
West:
2/3 MU
2/3 MUE
Goodwill
Site Description/Setting:
The project site is comprised of two (2) contiguous developed Downtown parcels with a combined 28,000
sq. ft. lot size. The project site has three frontages: Third St., and Lincoln and Tamalpais Avenue. It is flat
(<I% average cross -slope) and located outside the Downtown parking district. It is currently developed
with 15,000 sq. ft. combine commercial space with two, 1 -2 -story buildings and a surface parking lot.
Access to the project site is currently along both the Third St. and Tamalpais Avenue frontages. The
west portion of the project site (898 Lincoln Ave.) was originally developed in the 1940s and has' a long
history of automotive sales and service uses. It is identified in the current General Plan as a `housing
opportunity' site. The east portion of the project site (703 Third St.) is relatively newer and was developed
in 1995 and until recently long -served the community as "Marin Filmworks". The east portion of the site is
immediately west of the City's Bettini Transit Center and southwest of the new Downtown SMART
station. The BioMarin campus lies south and southwest of the project site.
BACKGROUND
On March 2, 2017, the project obtained Pre -application review comments. At that time, the scope of the
project was similar to that proposed in the Conceptual Design Review submittal, with the exception of the
following:
• The overall height of the project was 7 -stories and a maximum 74.5' -tall; and
• The project proposed two floors of garage parking spaces rather than mechanical parking lifts.
REPORT TO PLANNING COMMISSION - Case No: CDR17-005 Page 4
On June 20, 2017, the Design Review Board (Board), reviewed (Planning Commission Liaison Schaefer)
the conceptual project and, generally, recommended a higher -quality 'Gateway' design with limited
sidewalk encroachments, stepped back upper -stories and ground -floor commercial. space, particularly
along the Tamalpais Avenue, which are discussed below in greater details in the Design Review Board
section of this report.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Use:
The project proposes redevelopment of two contiguous parcels currently developed with existing 1 -2 -
story commercial buildings and a surface parking lot. The project proposes to construct a new, 6 -story,
66' -tall, multifamily residential building with 138 rental units above 143 garage parking spaces. The
proposed unit configuration includes 39 studio units (409-921 sq. ft. in size); 57, 1 -bedroom units (616-
825 sq. ft. in size); and 42, 2 -bedroom units (905-1,239 sq. ft. in size). The project does not include a
condominium map. All existing development on the two parcels are proposed to be demolished.
Density:
The project proposes to construct 138 rental units, which is 92 units above the maximum density allowed
on the site by both the General Plan and the Zoning Ordinance. The project proposes to provide 20% (or
9.2 units) of the base 46 -units as 'affordable'. This amount of affordability makes the project eligible for a
density bonus of up to 35% and up to three (3) concessions.
Site Plan:
Vehicular egress and ingress to the project site would be along two, 26' -wide, separated, two-way
driveways along the Tamalpais Avenue frontage. Pedestrian access to the project site would be primarily
along the Third St. frontage though secondary pedestrian access is provided along both the Lincoln and
Tamalpais Avenue frontages. The project proposes development to the property lines, including the front
property line (Third St.) which requires a minimum 5' landscaped setback. The upper stories are
proposed to project over the ROW as described below.
Architecture:
The project proposes a contemporary design and a consistent and expansive `earthtone/woodtone'
material and color palette would provide a unifying visual form among the three street frontages. Large
storefront windows are proposed along the ground floor (parking garage) with a mixture of cementitious
panel siding and corrugated metal siding on the exterior facade of the upper floors of the building (Floors
2 thru 6). The upper floors project 4 - 6' into/over the sidewalk ROW along all three street frontages. A
majority of windows along the three street frontages would include 1' -wide "shade box" trim which
projects from the building fagade and into/over the ROW. Metal and glass canopies on the ground -floor
would extend 5' into/over the ROW and wood and steel trellis structures on the ground -floor and roof
deck would encroach 10' into/over the ROW.
On the non -street front elevation, the south elevation, the same exterior treatments (mixture of
cementitious panel siding and corrugated metal siding) are proposed, though without the projections off
the building fagade since this is a common property boundary with 770 2nd St. ("Marin Color"). In lieu of
the projection details, the project proposes to inset the upper floors of the building (Floors 2 thru 6) 10'.
The new building is O -shaped with a central landscaped courtyard on the 2nd floor which opens to the
sky. The project includes a common use and partially covered roof deck with recreational amenities and
solar panel array. Fourteen units on the 6th floor would have access to recessed private balconies. The
new buildings proposes a tall (18.5' ceiling plate) ground floor, to allow the installation and operation of
mechanical parking lifts, above more standard (9.5' ceiling plates) upper -story residential floors. (A
Material and Color Board has been prepared by the applicant and will be presented during the
Commission study session).
REPORT TO PLANNING COMMISSION - Case No: CDR17-005 Page 5
Building Height:
The project proposes and is eligible for a 12' height bonus for the project, as a concession under the
State Density Bonus law; for meeting the required 20% (9.2 units) affordable housing requirement. The
maximum height allowed by zoning is 54' and the project proposes a 66' building height, consistent with
the allowable height bonus.
Parking: '
The project proposes to utilize mechanical parking lifts to meet nearly its entire parking requirement. The
project is required to provide 159 on-site parking spaces, based on the number of units, their size and
configuration. The project proposes to provide 143 on-site parking spaces, 135 of which are provided by
mechanical or `jig saw' parking lifts.
Landscaping:
The project proposes a 3,570 sq. ft. landscape courtyard on the 2�d floor and a 2,857 sq. ft. landscaped
roof deck. In addition, the project proposes raised planters recessed at the ground level along all three
street frontage's, providing 492 sq. ft. of additional combined perimeter landscaping. Details on specific
landscaping species are not provided with the exception of the roof deck, which is proposed to be a
mixture of sword ferns and yerba Buena herbs. The project proposes to remove a total of four (4) existing
street trees and install a total of five (5) new street trees; primarily along the Third St. frontage. The plans
do not provide details on the proposed species of new street trees
ANALYSIS
San Rafael General Plan 2020 Consistency:
General Plan policies pertinent to review of this development project are attached to staff's report (Exhibit
2). The General Plan contains many competing policies that need to be weighed and considered. The
General Plan land use designation for the site is Second/Third Street Mixed Use (2/3MU). The 2/3MU
designation allows office use, neighborhood serving commercial uses and residential uses as part of
mixed-use development. Since the concept project proposes residential only use, without ground -floor
commercial space, it would not be consistent with Land Use Policy LU -23 (Land Use Map and
Categories). The proposed project would be in accordance with Land Use Policy LU -13 (Height
Bonuses) with the granting of a concession under the State Density Bonus law. The project also would
be in accordance with Housing Policy H-18 (Inclusionary Housing Requirements) by providing 20%
affordable housing units or 9.2 units. The project design likely would be in accordance with Community
Design Policy CD -5 (Views), which seeks to respect and enhance to the greatest extent possible, views
of St. Raphael's church bell tower, hills and ridgelines from public streets, parks and publicly accessible
pathways..
According to the Neighborhoods policies in General Plan, the project site is located within the "Netherton
Gateway" District of Downtown. Design considerations for this area call for "...high-quality and varied
design with landmark features that enhance the District's gateway image". New building design should:
• Emphasize gateway character by incorporating transitional treatments such as accent elements
and public art;
• Stepback upper stories;
• Ground -floors include a pedestrian scale; and
• Include useable outdoor areas, courtyards and arcades that are landscaped, in sunny locations
and protected from freeway noise.
With the exception of the proposed courtyard feature, Staff finds the project should comply better with the
design considerations of the "Netherton Gateway" District, as adopted in the General Plan. As a concept -
level plan, it is difficult for staff to comment on the site landscaping; formal project application submittal
REPORT TO PLANNING COMMISSION - Case No: CDR17-005 Page 6
will be required to provide detailed landscape plans, in addition to visual simulations of the project site
from several vantage points identified by staff.
Zoning Ordinance Consistency:
Chapter 5 — Commercial and Office Districts
The project site is located within the Second/Third St. Mixed Use East (2/3 MUE) District, a Downtown
zoning district. The proposed project will require consistency with the property development standards for
the 2/3 MUE District, including maximum density (600 sq. ft. of lot area/unit), minimum setbacks (5'
.front), building height (54' + 12' height bonus ) and minimum landscaping (10% including required front
setback).
As conceptually designed, the project would conditionally comply with the maximum density and height
standards for the 2/3 MUE District with a 12' height bonus with the approval of concessions under the
State Density Bonus law for a height bonus and a density bonus above the 35% allowed. (see discussion
below).
The project also would conditionally comply with the minimum setback requirement with a setback waiver
as another concession under the State Density Bonus law for meeting the City's affordable housing
requirement (20% or 9.2 units). With the setback waiver approved, the project would comply with the
minimum landscape requirement when the proposed landscape planter areas along the ground -floor are
combined with those proposed within the 2nd floor courtyard and roof deck. Private and common outdoor
area is encouraged rather than required in the Downtown districts. While landscape plans were not
included in the concept project submittal, landscaping is represented on the ground -floor, 2"d floor
courtyard and roof deck, which appear to staff to exceed the minimum landscape requirement (10% or
2,800 sq. ft. landscaping).
As stated previously, the project would not be consistent with Section 14.05.022 of the Zoning
Ordinance, which clearly states that residential uses in the 2/3 MUE District are allowed only as part of
mixed-use projects. This restriction is supported by both the adopted Downtown Vision and the
Downtown Station Area Plan, the later which encourages ground -floor retail uses along the Tamalpais
Avenue frontage and no additional on-site parking for the ground -floor retail space, due to the proximity
to the Downtown SMART station, even though the site is located outside the Downtown parking district.
Chapter 16 — Site and Use Regulations
Affordable Housing Requirement
Pursuant to Section 14.16.030 (Affordable Housing Requirements) of the Zoning Ordinance, projects
proposing 21 or more housing units are required to provide 20% of the proposed units as 'affordable'
housing _units. The base density for this site is 46 units (28,000 sq. ft. lot/600 sq. ft. density standard).
The project proposes to set aside 20% (9.2 units) of those 46 units as affordable and is therefore eligible
for a 35% density bonus (or 17 bonus units). That would make the total of 63 units. This affordability will
also allow the project to seek up to three (3) concessions (concessions requested by the project are:: 1)
12' height bonus; 2) density bonus above the 35% or 17 units; and 3) a setback waiver) under the State
Density Bonus law.
Two of the proposed concessions, are considered major concessions and therefore are subject to
approval of the City Council and require that the applicant demonstrate through a pro forma that the
concessions are needed to make the project financially feasible.
At the time of formal project submittal, staff will require specific details from the applicant on how the
project meets their affordable housing requirement and how it is eligible for a density bonus and
concessions under the State Density Bonus law.
REPORT TO PLANNING COMMISSION - Case No: CDR17-005 Page 7
Density Bonus (Automatic)
By providing the required 9.2 'affordable' units (20%), project is eligible for an automatic 35% density
bonus or a total of 17 additional 'density bonus' units above the 46 base units, for a total of 63 units , As
noted above, the project proposed the project proposes a total of 138 units or 92 density bonus units, a
300% density bonus.
Additional Density Bonus (Discretionary)
The project proposes a total density of 138 units, 92 units above the maximum allowable density on the
site and 75 units above the maximum (20% or 9 units) 'automatic' density bonus provided by complying
with the City's affordable housing requirement. The density bonus law allows the City at its sole
discretion, to consider a density bonus exceeding the state minimum requirements where the applicant
agrees to construct a greater number of affordable housing units than required pursuant to" subsection
(13)(2) of this section and necessary to qualify for the density bonus under this section. If such
additional density bonus is granted by the City and accepted by the applicant, the -additional density
bonus shall be considered an additional concession or incentive. At this point, the applicant has
indicated that they are not proposing more affordable units than the required 20% and they plan to
seek a concession and demonstrate that the project in financially infeasible without 138 total units.
At the time of formal project submittal, the applicant will be required to provide a financial pro forma
demonstrating that the additional density bonus results in "identifiable, financially sufficient and actual
cost reductions" (underline added) to the project. This concession requesting a density bonus above the
maximum allowed under the State Density Bonus law is discretionary, allows staff to hire a consulting
economist for peer review (at the applicant's cost) and requires City Council review and approval.
Though skeptical the applicant's financial pro forma may not meet the required findings for the 75 -unit
density bonus concession, staff supports an additional density bonus concession if the number of
affordable housing units proposed by the project and percentage of affordability provided by the project
were increased above the minimum 20% affordable housing requirement.
Height Bonus Concession (Automatic)
The project proposes a 12' height bonus, from a maximum allowable 54' to 66' building height, for
meeting their affordable housing requirement. Both the General Plan and Section 14.16.190 allow a
height bonus up to 12', in the 2/3 MUE District for complying with the City's affordable housing
requirement. A height bonus, if approved, counts as a concession under the State Density Bonus law,
though it does not require submittal of a financial pro forma.
Setback Waiver Concession (Discretionary)
The project requests a waiver of the required 5' landscaped front setback (Third St. frontage) also as a
concession under the State Density Bonus law for meeting their required 20% affordable housing
requirement. At the time of formal project submittal, the applicant will be required to provide a financial
pro forma demonstrating that the waiver of the required 5' landscaped front setback results in
"identifiable, financially sufficient and actual cost reductions" (underline added) to the project. This
concession requesting a waiver of the required 5' landscaped front setback, like the additional 75 -unit
density bonus above the maximum allowed under the State Density Bonus law, is discretionary, allows
staff to hire a. consulting economist for peer review (at the applicant's cost) and requires City Council
review and approval. Like the requested 75 -unit density bonus concession, staff supports the requested
setback waiver concession.
Building Height Exclusion
Pursuant to Section 14.16.120 (Exclusions to Maximum Height Requirements) of the Zoning Ordinance,
architectural and screening features, which extend above the maximum allowable building height, may
be excluded from height calculations with an Environmental and Design Review Permit. The project
proposes a 12' -tall wood and steel trellis on a small portion of the roof deck area which increases the
overall height on that portion of the project from 66' to 78', where a maximum 54' building height is
REPORT TO PLANNING COMMISSION - Case No: CDR17-005 Page 8
allowed (66' with height bonus). The rooftop trellis is an architectural feature and is excluded from
building height calculations, based on the following:
It is an architectural or design feature which coordinates with another trellis at the ground level
that projects over/above the ROW and creates a sense of entry to the lobby for the residential
units;
It is an architectural or design feature which screens the elevator shafts for the residential units;
and
• It is an integral shade structure for the common roof deck amenities for the residents.
Sight Distance
Pursuant to Section 14.16.295 (Sight Distance) of the Zoning Ordinance, driveways shall provide a sight
distance triangle of 15' from the curb return, or as determined by the City Engineer. The project proposes
two 26' -wide, separated, two-way driveways along the Tamalpais Avenue frontage, which limit the sight
distance triangle to 6' only. At the time of formal project submittal, the building design will require
modification to inset the driveways better to provide the full 15' sight distance triangle.
Chapter 18 — Parking Standards
The project proposes the use of mechanical parking lifts to primarily meet the required parking for the
project; 135 of the 143 parking spaces are proposed.to be provided by mechanical parking lifts, though
not the required ADA -accessible parking spaces. The applicant is currently exploring the use of the Klaus
Multiparking TrendVario 4300 model of mechanical parking lift, which can park up to three (3) vehicles
vertically and shift parking both vertically and horizontally. The parking space dimensions of this
mechanical parking lift are:
• 17' length;
0 7.5' width;
• Up to 7.5' height; and
• 4000 lbs. load or weight
A pit of up to 7.5' deep is required. The driver is required to manually engage the system to moves the
parking `platforms' to an empty space. Access may be secured by adding sliding metal wire doors which
are opened by the driver only after the shifting process is completed.. The Commission may learn more
on the Klaus Multiparking TrendVario 4300 through the following link: http://www.klausparkin-.com/. At
formal application submittal, staff will coordinate and opportunity to visit an existing apartment building in
Berkeley (1797 Shattuck Ave), which is currently operating a Klaus Multiparking TrendVario 4300
mechanical parking lift.
These proposed `vertical' or .stacked parking lifts are a departure from the parking facility design
envisioned by the Parking Standards of the Zoning Ordinance, which is providing parking on a horizontal
configuration. A Parking Modification will be required, through a Use Permit, with the recommendation of
the Public Works Director and the Board, to allow mechanical parking lifts. In addition, the dimensions of
the parking spaces provided by the mechanical parking lifts do not appear to meet the City's minimum
standards for the Downtown (8.5' x 18' 'standard' parking space; 8' x 16' `compact' parking
space).Section 14.18.130 allows adjustments to these minimum parking space dimensions with the
recommendation of the City's Traffic Engineer and the Board. At the time of formal application submittal,
staff will require dimension details on the proposed parking spaces.
The proposed parking appears to comply with all other applicable parking standards. Under the Zoning
Ordinance, the all — residential project is not required to provide clean air vehicle parking or EV (electric
vehicle) charging stations, an off-street loading/unloading space or bicycle parking. The project proposes
a "bike storage" area though no loading/unloading or EV parking spaces. However, these will likely
change as residential uses are allowed in the 2/3 MUE District only in mixed-use development with
ground -floor commercial retail space.
REPORT TO PLANNING COMMISSION - Case No: CDR17-005 Page 9
Chapter 22 -- Use Permits
As discussed earlier in staff's report, the project will require Use Permit approval to allow: 1) Residential
uses in a commercial (2/3 MUE) zoning district; and 2) Parking Modification to allow: A) Reduction in on-
site parking, from 159 required parking spaces to 143 proposed parking spaces; and B) use of
mechanical parking lifts to primarily meet the parking requirement for the project.
Chapter 25 — Environmental and Design Review Permit
This project typically would require Environmental and Design, Review Permit approval by the
Commission, given that; it proposes to construct a new multifamily residential structure. However, the
City Council will have final decision on the project, following the recommendations of both the Board and
the Commission, due to the major concessions requested (additional 75 -unit density bonus and
elimination of required 5' landscaped front setback) under the State Density Bonus law. The pertinent
review criteria for Environmental and Design Review Permits, pursuant to Section 14.25.050 (Review
Criteria; Environmental and Design Review Permits), are attached as Exhibit 3:
The review criteria for Environmental and Design Review Permits require that the proposed design
(architecture, form, scale, materials and color, etc.) of all new development 'relate' to the predominant
design or'character-defining' design elements existing in the vicinity.
The scale and quality of the existing development, located south of the core Downtown (Fourth St.) and
near U.S Highway 101 is changing, thanks primarily due to the ongoing development of the BioMarin
campus. Low profile (1- and 2 -story) development is being replaced with much taller (5- and 6 -story)
buildings. As stated earlier in this report, staff supports the 6 -story scale proposed by the project.
Determining the predominant design character is a little more difficult. Structures within the adjacent
BioMarin campus are integrated with a cohesive architectural design with expansive facade detailing.
The project proposes a more contemporary design with modern facade treatments and fewer detailing
and expansive use of building projections (both habitable living space and architectural detailing)
over/above the sidewalk ROW.
Also, the project proposes similar -quality facade treatments along only three of the four building
elevations, primarily due to these .building projections over the ROW. The building encroachment over
the ROW is an important part of the project design along all three street frontages. However, there are no
proposed projections along the fourth building elevation (south elevation), which shares a common
property line with an -existing 1 -story commercial structure ("Marin Color"). This significantly diminishes
articulation along the south building elevation, which has as much or greater public visibility as the other
three building elevations. Staff finds that greater attention to the south building elevation The Review
Criteria for Environmental and Design Review Permits recommends equal attention to architectural -
design and detail along the facades of all elevation in sensitive locations.
San Rafael Design Guidelines:
The San Rafael Design Guidelines have been developed as interim criteria that implement design -
related General Plan Policies, as listed in Exhibit 2 and noted in staff's discussion above: The site is
located within the Second/Third Corridor and Environs.
Second/Third Corridor and Environs
Second and Third Streets are to be attractive, landscaped major transportation corridors. While
increased pedestrian safety and comfort is desired on Second and Third, greater pedestrian use of the
cross streets is encouraged. The project site is located within the boundaries of the Second/Third and
Environs area of the Downtown, where the following specific design guidelines apply:
• To provide visual interest, long and monotonous walls should be avoided.
• Building walls should be articulated,
REPORT TO PLANNING COMMISSION - Case No: CDR17-005
Page 10
• To create a boulevard effect along Second and Third Streets, varied landscape setbacks are
appropriate,
• Additional high -canopy, traffic -tolerant street trees are strongly encouraged,
• Where possible, residential buildings in this area should orient to the more pedestrian -friendly
side street, and
• Driveway cuts and widths should be minimized to prevent vehicular conflicts.
The project proposes to orient pedestrian activity through the lobby area along the Third St. frontage.
The pertinent Downtown Design Guidelines recommends orienting this lobby entrance to one of the more
pedestrian -friendly side streets, either Tamalpais or Lincoln Avenues, where possible.
Downtown Vision.
The proposed project is located should be consistent with as many of the applicable policies in the
adopted Our Vision of Downtown San Rafael, SecondlThird Corridor Vision, including:
• Capitalize on the proximity to the freeway, Transportation Center and vitality of the Lindaro District, in
the area east of B Street with housing in mixed use projects with ground -floor retail uses to support
the needs of the residents and surrounding office uses.
• Make Second and Third Street more attractive and safe for pedestrians by: A) Planting for street
trees; B) creating a visual buffer between pedestrians and the street; and C) Reducing the number of
driveways which interrupt sidewalks.
• Encourage safe and efficient auto transportation to and through the Downtown on Second and Third
Streets and respect the needs of pedestrians. Second and Third Streets are the county access
streets.
• Vary building heights and densities, concentrating the most intense development towards the east,
closest to the freeway and Transportation Center, including building heights of two to five stories and
higher densities east of B Street and heights of one to three stories and lower densities west of B
Street
The proposed project would be consistent with most of the applicable policies in the Downtown Vision
document with the exception of.ground-floor retail space.
Downtown Station Area Plan.
The project site is identified as a "potential development opportunity site" within the Downtown Station
Area Plan (SAP). Maximum development is assumed; a five -story mixed-use building with retail uses on
the ground -floor facing Tamalpais Avenue (fronting the SMART station). No on-site parking is assumed
for the ground -floor retail uses, even though the site is located outside the Downtown Parking District.
Auto access and egress occurs on Lincoln and Tamalpais Avenues. The following are recommended
land use policy changes from the SAP that are applicable to the project site:
Short -Term
• Reduce minimum parking requirements to one (1) space for two-bedroom residential units and 1.5
spaces for 3 -bedroom units.
• Allow tandem parking spaces.
Long -Term
• Allow one-half space per residential unit to be located off-site in a municipal parking facility.
• Allow off-site parking for ground -floor retail uses.
• Allow unbundled parking, where parking spaces are leased separately from residential units.
• Allow bicycle parking in lieu of some portion of the required on-site parking.
• Adopt a Form -Based Code and eliminate maximum density and FAR (Floor Area Ratio) limits.
Together with requiring no more than one parking space per unit, a Form -Based Code may allow up
to 200 residential units within maximum allowable building height and setbacks required on the site.
REPORT TO PLANNING COMMISSION - Case No: CDR17-005 Page 11
• Allow development `bonuses' (like reduced parking), beyond concessions under the State Density
Bonus law, in exchange for community benefits. Examples of community benefits include amenities
to support the more transit -oriented surroundings such as wider sidewalks and landscaping, open
space or plazas, provisions for car -sharing, and additional affordable housing units above the
minimum 20% requirement.
• Allow shared parking between daytime retail uses and nighttime residential uses.
• Allow stacked parking or parking lifts, to meet required on-site parking.
• Explore reconstruction of Tamalpais Avenue to serve as a "Complete Street" to serve all travel
modes. In concept, Tamalpais Avenue may be converted to one-way northbound travel with a Class
II bicycle lane, pull-out staging areas and wider sidewalks.
The proposed project would be consistent with most of the applicable recommendations in the Station
Area Plan document with the exception of ground -floor retail uses, particularly facing Tamalpais Avenue
for SMART users. However, the recommended changes of the SAP have not yet been implemented by
the City, so they are still a vision document.
Subdivision Ordinance Consistency:
The project proposes to allow construction of a new multifamily residential structure over the current
property boundaries of two adjacent legal Downtown parcels. As' one of the conditions of approval, the
project subject to the lot consolation provisions pursuant to Chapter 15.05. of the Subdivision Ordinance.
If the project is approved, staff will work with the applicant and the City Engineer to consolidate the
project site into one parcel which must be recorded prior to building permit issuance.
The project is proposed as a rental project only. The applicant has not indicated their make them
individual condo units.
DESIGN REVIEW BOARD RECOMMENDATION
On June 20, 2017, the Board (Planning Commission Liaison Schaefer) reviewed the proposed
conceptual project and provided the following general comments:
• Site requires a heightened `gateway' design. The concept design is too boxy and should
incorporate greater vertical and horizontal articulation.
• Massing of concept design is looming due to crowding of sidewalk right-of-way with upper -story
encroachments. Limit ROW encroachments to architectural features only and reduce to maintain
pedestrian -friendly cross -streets (Tamalpais and Lincoln Avenues).
• Portions of the upper stories should step back.
• Ext. color palette is too bright.
• Ground floor commercial space along Tamalpais Ave. is important link to pedestrian -friendly
vision.
• Provide comprehensive and generous amenities in common areas, including trellis over portions
of the courtyard. Consider adding a gym and enlarging the rooftop common area.
• Consider cladding staircase towers in glass or a similar design feature.
• Guest parking, EV charging stations and a loading/unloading area should be provided in the
garage.
• Limit the driveway curb cuts on pedestrian -friendly cross -streets by providing a single drive-thru
driveway and better garage circulation; and
• Board is supportive of mechanical parking lifts though additional details are needed, including
dimensions, queuing, turning access, cross-sections, real-time video of use.
At the Board meeting, PC Liaison Schaefer provided the following additional comments:
REPORT TO PLANNING COMMISSION - Case No: CDR17-005
Page 12
Pedestrian safety is important to project due to proximity to transit center and SMART station.
Show location of adjacent crosswalks connecting the project to these sites and proposed
improvements if needed.
Air quality of residents should be evaluated due to proximity to high -traffic corridors and Highway
101.
Like the Commission's study session review of the conceptual project, the Board provided comments only
and took no further action. A video of this June 20, 2017 meeting may be viewed at
http://cityofsanrafael.granicus.com/MediaPlaVer.php?view id=38&clip id=1170&meta id=108703
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION
The formal project submittal will require environmental review, the level of which is undetermined at this
time. The conceptual review submittal includes a traffic study (Seagate Iblultiiarni ly Housing;
Transportation Impact Analysis Report by Fehr & Peers, dated July 14, 2017), which determined that the
project would have no significant impacts to circulation under existing baseline and General Plan
conditions. The City's Traffic Engineer has reviewed the traffic study and is requesting additional
information for further analysis on the traffic impact assessment of the project.
The formal project application will require the preparation and submittal of the following studies (or
revisions to existing studies, such as the existing traffic study for the project) to support staff's evaluation
of the project pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA):
Archaeological Resources Assessment. The archaeological sensitivity on the project sites is "medium",
based on the adopted City of San Rafael Archaeological Sensitivity Map. Pursuant to adopted
procedures and regulations for archaeological resource protection, formal project submittals shall be
reviewed by the Northwest Information Center (NWIC) at Sonoma State University and the recognized
local Native American tribe (the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria) and, if the City determines the
project has the potential to impact. an archaeological resource, a detailed archaeological resources
assessment may be required, prepared by a qualified archaeologist.
Visual Simulations. Due to the potential visibility of the site and building height deviations of existing
structures surrounding the project, photo or visual simulations from various local and distant vantage
points around. San Rafael are required, showing how the project will be seen from off-site. The
appropriate vantage points from which these photo or visual simulations shall be created will be
determined after follow-up consultation with Planning staff.
Geotechnical Investigation Report. A Geotechnical Investigation Report on the site is required. The
contents of the Geotechnical Investigation Report shall include, but not be limited to, the checklist
identified in Appendix F of the San Rafael General Plan 2020.
Hydrology / Storm Water Drainage Report. A hydrology / storm water drainage report is required and
shall include both pre- and post -project calculations and assessment of the off-site storm water system
capacity.
Noise Study. A noise study shall be conducted to evaluate both temporary noise impacts resulting from
the construction and grading activities of the project and constant/intermittent noise impacts resulting
from the location of the sitetoSMART, U.S. Highway 101, and Second and Third Streets, all of which
experience large traffic volumes. The noise study shall be prepared by a qualified acoustic engineer and.
shall identify mitigation measures necessary to reduce noise impacts to comply with the City's adopted
maximum noise levels.
REPORT TO PLANNING COMMISSION - Case No: CDR17-005 Page 13
Air Quality Analysis and Risk Hazard Assessment. An air quality study shall be conducted to evaluate
potential air pollution impacts resulting from the location of the site to SMART, U.S. Highway 101, and
Second and Third Streets, all of which experience large traffic volumes. The air quality study shall be
prepared by a qualified engineer and shall identify mitigation measures necessary to reduce air quality
impacts, if necessary.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions Assessment. A greenhouse gas assessment shall be conducted due to the
project proposing to exceed the maximum allowable density assumed in the General Plan.
'NEIGHBORHOOD MEETING 1 CORRESPONDENCE
If the formal project submittal proposes a General Plan Amendment or requires the preparation of an EIR
(Environmental Impact Report), a Neighborhood Meeting will be required to be held early in the project
review, typically within 30 days of submittal. Even if these milestones are not met, the Community
Development Director may still require the applicant hold a Neighborhood Meeting due to the overall
community interest of the project.
Notice of Conceptual Review for the project, by both the Board and the Commission, was conducted in
accordance with noticing requirements contained in Chapter 29 of the Zoning Ordinance. A Notice of
Public Meeting was mailed to all property owners, residents, businesses and occupants within a 300 -foot
radius of the project site and the appropriate neighborhood groups (the Downtown Business
Improvement District, - Gerstle Park Neighborhood Assn. and the Federation of San ' Rafael
Neighborhoods), a minimum of 15 calendar days prior to the date of this hearing. Additionally, notice was
posted on the project site, along both the Third St. and Lincoln Avenue frontages.
All public comments received during this concept review, by both the Board and the Commission, are
attached as Exhibit 4.
CONCLUSION
Conceptual Design Review is an early opportunity to provide preliminary comments on the proposed
building and site design of a project. While the Board reviews all Conceptual Design Review applications,
staff has encouraged the applicant to bring the conceptual project before the Commission for their review
8o that they may provide on comments which may also have land use policy and/or environmental
implications. The Board conducted conceptual review of the project and provided comments at their June
20, 2017 meeting, as discussed earlier in staff's report.
In general, staff finds the conceptual project is on the right design track. Staff supports the proposed 6 -
story scale of the project, primarily based on the scale of the neighboring BioMarin campus which is also
within the max. allowable height limits in the General Plan and the Zoning Ordinance (48-67' in height
and with a height bonus). The project would put housing in the core of downtown, near services,
employers and transit. In general, adding housing to downtown has been a major city policy since the
mid 1990's.
However, staff also finds the conceptual project lacks consistency with many current design policies or
standards and the proposed design requires greater refinement.
The most notable is whether the proposed 300% density bonus is warranted and should be
supported. The project proposes to construct 138 rental units, which is 92 units above the
maximum density allowed on. the site by both the General Plan and the Zoning Ordinance. The
project proposes to comply with the City's 20% affordable housing requirement which would allow
a maximum 'automatic' 35% density bonus, or 17 density units for providing 9.2 units of the base
46 units as `affordable'.
REPORT TO PLANNING COMMISSION - Case No: CDR17-005
Page 14
• Whether ground floor retail is needed in this project as outlines by "Downtown San Rafael Vision"
and "The San Rafael Downtown Station Area Plan", which require or encourage ground -floor
commercial as part of mixed-use development on the site, particularly along the Tamalpais
Avenue frontage. This is not just a design item, but also a land use matter, as the Zoning
Ordinance allows residential units on the site only a part of a mixed-use project.
• Environmental and Design Review Permit Review Criteria and "Hetherton Gateway" design
considerations in the General Plan due to a lack of fapade details on the south building elevation
and upper -stories stepped back.
• Downtown design guidelines due to a lack of orienting the lobby entrance along one of more
pedestrian -friendly side streets, Tamalpais or Lincoln Avenues.
• Proposed projection of habitable space over/above the public sidewalk ROW; the Public Works
Department has not commented their support for the proposed project design and has not
developed a permitting process of allowing the types of ROW encroachment which create private
habitable space over the public ROW.
Staff requests the Commission provide comments on the points specified in the Executive Summary
section of this report. In addition, staff requests the Commission provide any other comments or
concerns on the conceptual project. Following the Commission's preliminary review of the project, the
applicant will consider all comments in submitting the formal project application.
EXHIBITS
1. Vicinity/Location Map
2. General Plan Policies
3. Review Criteria for Environmental and Design Review Permits
4. Public Comments
5. Plans
Reduced (11 "x 17) color plans provided to the Planning Commissioners only.
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General Plan Policies
Land Use
➢ LU -12. Building Heights. Citywide height limits in San Rafael are described in Exhibits 7
and 8. For Downtown height limits see Exhibit 9:
a. Height of buildings. existing or approved as of January 1, 1987 shall be considered
conforming to zoning standards.
b. Hotels have a 54 -foot height limit, except where a taller height is shown on Exhibit 9
(Downtown Building Height Limits).
c. Height limits may be exceeded through granting of a zoning exception or variance, or
through a height bonus as described in LU -13 (Height Bonuses)
➢ LU -13. Height Bonuses. A height bonus may be granted with a use permit for a
development that provides one or more of the amenities listed in Exhibit 10, provided the
building's design is consistent with Community Design policies and design guidelines.
No more than one height bonus may be granted for a project. In the Second/Third Mixed
Use East (2/3 MUE) Zoning District, a maximum 12' height bonus is allowed for:
• Affordable housing.
• Public parking.
• Overhead crosswalks.
• Mid -block passageways between Fourth Street and parking on Third Street.
➢ LU -23. Land Use Maps and Categories, Second/Third Street Mixed -Use (2/3 MU) Land
Use Designation. 32-62 Units per gross acre. Office and office -supported retail and
service uses, such as copy shops, food service and cleaners) are encouraged
throughout the district. On Second and Third Streets east of "B" Street, limited a uto-
serving retail (such as gas stations), and residential uses as part of a mixed-use
development are allowed. On the cross streets, neighborhood serving and specialty
retail uses are encouraged in order to have an active pedestrian environment.
Residential use is also encouraged, especially west of "B" Street.
Housing
➢ H-2. Design that Fits into the Neighborhood Context. Recognize that construction of new
housing and improvements on existing properties can add to the appearance and value
of the neighborhood if they fit into the established character of the area. Design new
housing, remodels, and additions to be compatible to the surrounding neighborhood.
Incorporate transitions in height and setbacks from adjacent properties to respect
adjacent development character and privacy. Respect existing landforms and minimize
effects on adjacent properties.
➢ H-9. Special Needs. Encourage a mix of housing unit types throughout San Rafael,
including very low and low income housing for familiesmith children, single parents,
students, young families, lower income seniors, homeless and the disabled. Accessible
units shall be provided in multi -family developments, consistent with State and Federal
law.
➢
H-1 4a. Residential and Mixed Use Sites Inventory. Encourage residential development
in areas appropriate and feasible for new housing. These areas are identified in
Appendix B, Housing Element Background, Summary of Potential Housing Sites
(available for view on the City's website). Explore effective ways to share housing site
Planning Commission Study Session
July 25, 2017; CDR17-005
703 Third St. Residential Project
Exhibit 2
General Plan Policies
information and developer and financing information to encourage development of
underutilized institutional land. The City has employed different strategies to find the
most effective way to deliver information about development. It is an ongoing and
evolving process that has included practices such as preparing fact sheets for sites with
multiple inquiries. [Note: Table 83.10 of the January 2015 adopted Housing Element
Appendix 8 lists the larger of the two parcels which make up the project site (898 Lincoln
Ave.; APN: 011-278-01) as a potential Mixed Use housing opportunity site.]
➢ H -14b. Efficient Use of Multifamily Housing Sites. Do not approve residential -only
development below minimum designated General Plan densities unless physical or
environmental constraints preclude its achievement. Residential -only projects should be
approved at the mid-- to high -range of the zoning density. If development on a site is to
occur over time the applicant must show that the proposed development does not
prevent subsequent development of the site to its minimum density and provide
y guarantees that the remaining phases will, in fact, be developed.
➢
H-1 4c. Continue to Implement Zoning Provisions to Encourage Mixed Use. San Rafael
has been effective in integrating both vertical mixed use and higher density residential
development within its Downtown. As a means of further encouraging mixed use in
commercial areas outside the Downtown, General Plan 2020 now allows site
development capacities to encompass the aggregate of the maximum residential density
PLUS the maximum FAR for the site, thereby increasing development potential on mixed
use sites. The City will continue to review development standards to facilitate mixed use,
including:
• Encourage adaptive reuse of vacant buildings and underutilized sites with residential
and mixed use development on retail, office, and appropriate industrial sites.
• Explore zoning regulation incentives to encourage lot consolidation where needed to
facilitate housing.
• Review zoning requirements for retail in a mixed use building or site, and amend the
zoning ordinance as necessary to allow for residential -only buildings in appropriate
mixed-use zoning districts.
A H-15. Infill Near Transit. Encourage higher densities on sites adjacent to a transit hub,
such as the San Rafael Transportation Center and the Downtown and Civic Center
SMART stations, and along major bus corridors.
➢
H-1 5a. Downtown Station Area Plan. The coming of SMART rail service to Downtown
San Rafael in 2016 is an opportunity to build on the work that the City has undertaken to
revitalize the Downtown and to create a variety of transportation and housing options,
economic stability, and vibrant community gathering places in the heart of San Rafael.
General Plan 2020, adopted in 2004, allowed for higher residential densities and
reduced residential parking standards to encourage housing development within the
heart of Downtown that would support local businesses and allow people to live close to
their place of work. The Downtown Station Area Plan, accepted by City Council in June
2012, establishes a series of implementing actions, the following of which specifically
serve to facilitate higher density residential and mixed use infill in the area.
Program Objective: Complete Station Area parking study and Transit Center relocation
analysis in 2015. Following the commencement of operation of SMART (2016), study
other Station Area Plan recommendations to increase housing opportunities near transit,
and implement through Zoning Code changes where appropriate. Build upon lessons
2
Planning Commission Study Session
July 25, 2017; CDR17-005 ,
703 Third St. Residential Project
Exhibit 2
General Plan Policies
learned from the Station Area parking analysis to re-evaluate parking standards on a
citywide basis.
Neighborhoods
➢ NH -15. Downtown Vision. Continue to implement Our Vision of Downtown San Rafael.
➢ NH -22. Housing Downtown. Create a popular and attractive residential environment that
contributes to the activity and sense of community Downtown. This includes:
b. Providing incentives to encourage private sector construction of housing, particularly
affordable housing...
d. Implementing zoning standards that reflect Downtowns urban character.
➢ NH -25. Pedestrian Comfort and Safety. Make Downtowns street systems more
comfortable and safe for pedestrians by:
• Balancing between the needs or pedestrians and the desire for efficient traffic flow,
slowing traffic.
• Making pedestrian crossings direct and safe.
• Establishing pedestrian environments unique to each District.
• Improving and/or expanding sidewalks, street trees, landscaping and other sidewalk
amenities.
• Increasing visibility to storefronts and businesses.
➢ NH -27. Parking. Continue to make parking convenient and easy to find by encouraging
solutions that address Downtowns urban parking situation. Needed improvements
include:
Providing a range of long and short term parking.
Reducing the visual impacts of parking areas through design and landscaping.
Improving pedestrian safety in parking lots and garages.
➢ NH -2$. Special Place. Preserve Downtowns reputation as a special place by developing
a strategy that capitalizes on Downtowns strengths:
• Unique urban characteristics and density.
• Diversity in architectural design.
➢ NH -29. Downtown Design. New and remodeled building must contribute to Downtowns
hometown feel. Design elements that enhance Downtowns identity and complement the
existing attractive environment are encouraged, and may be required for locations with
high visibility or for compatibility with historic structures. Design considerations include:
• Varied and distinctive building designs.
• Generous landscaping to accent buildings.
• Appropriate materials and construction.
• Site design and streetscape continuity.
➢ NH -30. Pedestrian Environments. Enhance Downtowns streets by establishing
pedestrian environments appropriate to each District. These environments could include:
• Well-designed window displays and views into retail stores.
3
Planning Commission Study Session
July 25, 2017; CDR17-005
703 Third St. Residential Project
Exhibit 2
General Plan Policies
• Signs that are easy for pedestrians to see and read.
+ Sun -filled courtyards, plazas and seating areas.
• Attractive street furniture and lighting.
• Information kiosks and public art.
➢ NH -31. Ground Floor Designed for Pedestrians. Ensure that all buildings, regardless of
height, are comfortable for people at the street level. This includes:
• Relating wall and window heights to the height of people.
• Use of architectural elements to create visual interest..
• Adding landscaping and insets and alcoves for pedestrian interest..
• Stepping upper stories back as building height increases.
➢ NH -33. Downtowns Neighbors. Distinguish Downtown from adjoining neighborhood
areas by:
• Establishing major entrances to Downtown with gateway treatments.
• Providing a gradual transition into adjacent residential neighborhoods in terms of
building scale and intensity of use.
➢ NH -36. Hetherton Office District. Downtown Gateway.
a. Office Center. Emphasize development related to the Transportation Center,
especially office and professional service buildings which could include limited areas for
street0level retail uses. Residential is also strongly encouraged in this area.
b. Transportation Hub. Use the Transportation Center to coordinate and facilitate the
different ways people move to and around Downtown, including bus, rail, auto, bicycle
and on foot. Include safe pedestrian and bicycle connections linking this area to the
stores, services, cultural facilities, and recreational opportunities in other parts of the
Downtown. Expand connections from the Transportation Center to other parts of the City
by:
• Improving walking and hiking facilities.
• Facilitating the movement of commuters to and from the neighborhoods.
• Creating safer pedestrian crossings on Second and Third Streets.
➢ NH -37. Hetherton Office District Design Considerations.
a. Downtown Gateway. Transform the Netherton Office District into an elegant
transition into Downtown San Rafael, Improve the entries to Downtown at Third
Street, Fifth Street, Mission Avenue, Lincoln Avenue and the freeway remaps with
entrance graphics, enhanced planning and lighting. Buildings should complement the
districts entryway treatments and provide an attractive fagade along Netherton
Street.
c. Hetherton Design. Encourage projects of high quality and varied design with
landmark features that enhance the Districts gateway image. Examples include:
4
Planning Commission Study Session
July 25, 2017; CDR17-005
703 Third St. Residential Project
Exhibit 2
General Plan Policies
• Building design emphasizing the gateway character and complementing the
districts transitional treatment by incorporating accent elements, public are and
other feature items.
• Upper stories stepped back.
• Ground floor areas have a pedestrian scale.
• Retail uses opening onto public area.
• Useable outdoor spaces, courtyards and arcades that are landscaped, in sunny
locations and protected from freeway noise.
e. Height. Building heights of three to five stories are allowed west of the rail transitway,
and typically up to three stories east of the rail transitway.
➢ NH -40d. Second/Third Mixed -Use District; Transportation Corridor. Make Second and
Third Streets a very attractive, safe and efficient transportation corridor that allows
smooth travel through Downtown, provides easy access to the Fourth Street Core via
the cross streets and is safe to walk along and cross. Substantially improve Second and
Third Streets through:
Screening pedestrians from the perception of traffic noise and encouraging pedestrian
use of other streets.
• Improving pedestrian connections to Fourth Street.
• Providing safe crosswalks at all intersections.
• Reducing the number of driveways that interrupt sidewalks.
• Managing traffic flow for efficiency, not speed.
➢ NH -41. Second/Third Mixed -Use District'Design Considerations.
a. An Inviting Appearance. Create an inviting appearance to people traveling Second
and Third Streets. Encourage attractive, creative and varied architecture on Second and
Third Streets, with design detail on all sides of buildings visible to the street or
pedestrians.
c. Height. Individual building heights will vary and typically range from two to four stories
east of B Street, and from one to three stories generally west of B Street.
Community Desiqn
➢ CD -1. City Image. Reinforce the City's positive and distinctive image by recognizing the
natural features of the City, protecting historic resources, and by strengthening the
positive qualities of the City's focal points, gateways, corridors and neighborhoods.
➢ CD -1d. Landscape Improvement. Recognize that landscaping is a critical design
component. Encourage maximum use of available landscape area to create visual
interest and foster sense of the natural environment in new and existing developments.
Encourage the use of a variety of site appropriate plant materials.
➢ CD -2. Neighborhood Identity. Recognize and promote the unique character and integrity
of the residential neighborhoods and Downtown. Strengthen the "hometown" image of
San Rafael by:
• Maintaining the urban, historic, and pedestrian character of the Downtown.
• Improving the appearance and function of commercial areas.
5
Planning Commission Study Session
July 25, 2017; CDR17-005
703 Third St. Residential Project
Exhibit 2
General Plan Policies
➢ CD -5. Views. Respect and enhance to the greatest extent possible, views of the Bay and
its islands, Bay wetlands, St. Raphael's church bell tower, Canalfront, marinas, Mt.
Tamalpais, Marin Civic Center and hills and ridgelines from public streets, parks and
publicly accessible pathways.
➢ CD -7. Downtown and Marin Civic Center. Build upon the character of these areas by
controlling land uses to clearly distinguish their boundaries; by recognizing Mission San
Rafael Archangel and St. Raphael Church, Marin Civic Center, and other buildings that
help define the City's character, and requiring that these and other architectural
characteristics and land uses that give these areas their identity are strengthened.
➢ CD -8. Gateways. Provide and maintain distinctive gateways to identify City entryways.
➢ CD -8a. Gateways. Evaluate each of the gateways defined on the design element maps
to determine what natural, architectural, signage or landscape treatments should further
establish these locations as identifiable gateways within the City, and implement the
desired improvements as part of the City's Capital Improvement program.
➢ CD -9. Transportation Corridors. To improve the function and appearance of corridors,
recognize those shown on Exhibits 17 and 18 and define each corridor's contribution to
the City based upon its land use and transportation function and how it is experienced by
the public.
➢ CD -9a. Corridor Design Guidelines. Develop specific design guidelines for each corridor
that address building massing, articulation of building facades, detailing, lighting,
landscaping, street trees and other desired infrastructure and characteristics. Include
appropriate zoning code provisions.
➢ CD -11. Multifamily Design Guidelines. Recognize, preserve and enhance the design
elements that ensure multifamily housing is visually and functionally compatible with
other buildings in the neighborhood. Develop design guidelines to ensure that new
development fits within and improves the character defining elements of neighborhoods.
➢ CD -11a. Compatibility of Building Pattern. Adopt design guidelines to ensure
compatibility of neighborhood building patterns. Guidelines should address setback
patterns, parking and driveway patterns, building scale, transitions between land use
districts, height and building stepbacks, as well as entries, roof design, roof equipment,
windows, architectural style, materials and detailing, lighting and landscaping.
➢ CD -14. Recreational Areas. In multifamily development, require private outdoor areas
and on-site common spaces for low and medium densities. In high density and mixed-
use development, private and/or common outdoor spaces are encouraged. Common
spaces may include recreation facilities, gathering spaces, and site amenities such as
picnicking and play areas.
➢ CD -17. Street Furnishings. Encourage appropriate benches, trash containers, street
lighting, public art, and other street furnishings. Select styles compatible with individual
neighborhoods and the Downtown to strengthen their identities.
➢ CD -18. Landscaping. Recognize the unique contribution provided by landscaping, and
make it a significant component of all site design.
6
Planning Commission Study Session
July 25, 2017; CDR17-005
703 Third St. Residential Project
Exhibit 2
General Plan Policies
Circulation
➢ C-22. Attractive Roadway Design. Design roadway projects to be attractive and where
possible to include street trees„ landscape buffers public are integration of public spaces
and other visual enhancements, Emphasize tree planting and landscaping along all
streets.
Sustainability
➢ SU -1. Land Use. Implement General Plan land use policies to increase residential and
commercial
➢ densities within walking distance of high frequency transit centers and corridors.
➢ SU -2d. SMART. Encourage continued funding, development and use of SMART, which
will provide residents and employees of San Rafael an additional transportation
alternative to single -occupant vehicles.
➢ SU -2e. Sidewalk and Street Improvements. Continue to implement sidewalk and bicycle
improvements in accordance with the adopted Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan and
the Safe Routes to School program.
➢ SU -3b. Charging Stations for Private Facilities. Revise building codes to facilitate
installation of charging stations for plug-in electric vehicles in private parking facilities.
➢ SU -5a. Green Building Regulations. Require new construction and remodel projects to
comply with adopted green building regulations.
➢ SU -5d. Reflective Surfaces. Encourage the use of high albedo (reflectivity) materials for
future outdoor surfaces such as parking lots, roadways, roofs and sidewalks.
➢ SU -6. New and Existing Trees. Plant new and retain existing trees to maximize energy
conservation and carbon sequestration benefits.
➢ SU -8. Social Diversity and Equity. Enhance social equity among all segments of the
community.
➢ SU -8a. Affordable Housing. Continue to expand the supply of affordable housing, which
reduces commute times and congestion.
Air & Water Qualit
➢ AW -2. Land Use Compatibility. To ensure excellent air quality, promote land use
compatibility for new development by using buffering techniques such as landscaping,
setbacks, and screening in areas where different land uses abut one another.
➢ AW -2a. Sensitive Receptors. Through development review, ensure that siting of any new
sensitive receptors provides for adequate buffers from existing sources of toxic air
contaminants or odors. If development of a sensitive receptor (a facility or land use that
includes members of the population sensitive to the effects of air pollutants, such as
children, the elderly and people with illnesses) is proposed within 500 feet of Highway
101 or 1-580, an analysis of mobile source toxic air contaminant health risks should be
performed. Development review should include an evaluation of the adequacy of the
setback from the highway and, if necessary, identify design mitigation measures to
reduce health risks to acceptable levels.
➢ AW -3. Air Quality Planning with Other Processes. Integrate air quality considerations
with the land use and transportation processes by mitigating air quality impacts through
7
Planning Commission Study Session
July 25, 2017; CDR17-005
703 Third St. Residential Project
Exhibit 2
General Plan Policies
land use design measures, such as encouraging project design that will foster walking
and biking.
➢ AW -3b. Smart Growth and Livable Communities Programs. Participate in and implement
strategies of Metropolitan Transportation Commission's regional "Smart Growth
Initiative" and "Transportation for Livable Communities Program."
8
Planning Commission Study Session
July 25, 2017; CDR17-005
703 Third St. Residential Project
Exhibit 2
Review Criteria for Environmental and Design Review Permits
Site Design. Proposed structures and site development should relate to the existing
development in the vicinity. The development should have good vehicular and pedestrian
circulation and access. Safe and convenient parking areas should be designed to provide
easy access to building entrances. The traffic capacity of adjoining streets must be
considered. Major views of theSan Pablo Bay, wetlands, bay frontage, the Canal, Mt.
Tamalpais and the hills should be preserved and enhanced from public streets and public
vantage points. In addition, respect views of St. Raphael's Church up "A" Street.
Architecture. The project architecture should be harmoniously integrated in relation to the
architecture in the vicinity in terms of colors and materials, scale and building design. The
design should be sensitive to and compatible with historic and architecturally significant
buildings in the vicinity. Design elements and approaches which are encouraged include: a)
creation of interest in the building elevation; b) pedestrian -oriented design in appropriate
locations; c) energy-efficient design; d) provision of a sense of entry; e) variation in building
placement and height; and f) equal attention to design given to all facades in sensitive
location.
Materials and Colors. Exterior finishes should be consistent with the context of the
surrounding area. Color selection shall coordinate with the predominant colors and values of
the surrounding landscape and architecture. High-quality building materials are required.
Natural materials and colors in the earth tone and wood tone range are generally preferred.
Concrete surfaces should be colored, textured, sculptured, and/or patterned to serve design
as well as a structural function.
Walls, Fences and Screening. Walls, fences and screening shall be used to screen parking
and loading areas, refuse collection areas and mechanical equipment from view. Screening
of mechanical equipment shall be designed as an integrated architectural component of the
building and the landscape. Utility meters and transformers shall be incorporated into the
overall project design.
Landscape Design. Landscaping shall be designed as an integral enhancement of the site
and existing tree shall be preserved as much as possible. Water -conserving landscape
design shall be required. A landscaped berm around the perimeter of parking areas is
encouraged. Smaller scale, seasonal color street trees should be proposed along
pedestrian -oriented streets while high -canopy, traffic -tolerant trees should be'proposed for
primary vehicular circulation streets.
Planning Commission Study Session
July 25, 2017; CDR17-005
703 Third St. Residential Project
Exhibit 3
Public Comments
Before the Board's conceptual review of the project, staff received comments from the owner of
the closest property to the site, the Marin Color site (770 2"d St):
1. The proposed 66' -tall building height is out of scale or out of character with the
surrounding neighborhood, similar to the former 'WinCup' site ("Tam Ridge" residences)
in Corte Madera.
2. The traffic impacts will degrade the already diminished traffic flow within the Downtown,
particularly along Tamalpais Ave., which will also negative impact life safety response
times.
3. The proposed project should provide both guest parking and an adequate
loading/unloading parking space.
4. The proposed 138 -unit density will negatively impact the ability of Marin Municipal Water
District (MMWD) to provide services to the project.
Staff's responses to these comments are, as follows:
1. Staff finds that the proposed 66' -tall scale is in context with the increasingly taller scale
of this area, south of Downtown and close to U.S. highway 101, primarily due to the
recent expansion (and approved development that have not yet been issued building
permits) of the BioMarin campus, which has building heights 48'-67' with a height bonus.
2. A traffic study (Transportation Impact Analysis Report, dated October 31, 2016; Fehr
and Peers) was submitted during Pre -application review. The City Engineer has
requested additional details and analysis prior to providing support.for this traffic study.
3. The parking standards in the City's Zoning Ordinance do not require the project provide
'guest' parking unless the .site is located within 200' of a residential zoning district. The
project site is located over 1,000' from a residential zoning district and is not required to
provide `guest' parking as part of their development proposal. The parking standards
also only require an off-street loading/unloading space for non-residential development.
Since the project is currently a rental apartment project, no loading/unloading space is
proposed or required.
4. The Marin Municipal Water District (MMWD) provided comments during Pre -application
review of the project. MMWD provided comments that, while they will be able to provide
water service, the proposed project will need to purchase additional water entitlement
annually.
After the Board's conceptual review and prior to the Commission's conceptual review of the
project, staff received additional comments from two separate residents, Valerie Taylor and
James and Virginia Weber. Ms. Taylor comments that the project design lacks the architectural
quality worthy of the Downtown and points to the City of Toronto who recently adopted design
guidelines for mid -rise Downtown buildings, including:
• Consideration of sunlight and shadow impacts;
• Building height in relation to street width;
• Upper -story setbacks;
• Street level interest; and
• Building scale relates to existing surrounding building scale.
Staff's responses to these comments are that the City's adopted Downtown Design Guidelines
and `vision' documents (Downtown Vision and Downtown Station Area Plan) incorporate these
same criteria, which the Board considered during their review of the conceptual project. At their
June 20, 2017 meeting, the Board provided general comments that the concept design should
better comply with these applicable design guidelines and `vision' policies.
Planning Commission Study Session
July 25, 2017; CDR17-005
703 Third St. Residential Project
Exhibit 4
Public Comments
The Weber comments are, as follows:
1. The three-story mixed-use building at Fourth and G Streets (1700 Fourth St.) is a good
example of building scale and design that should be incorporated on the project site;
2. The proposed 138 -units is too much density and would result in too much traffic impacts;
3. The project should provide on-site guest parking;
4. The efficient operation of the proposed mechanical parking lifts should be carefully
evaluated; and
5. The adopted Downtown Vision document should be updated.
Staff's responses to, these comments are, as follows:
1. Both the current General Plan and the Zoning Ordinance allows a maximum 54' building
height on the site and allows the applicant to request a non -discretionary height bonus of
12' by simply meeting the City inclusionary or affordable housing requirement. While
existing land use polices and design guidelines both encourage new development to
generally 'relate' to surrounding development, the adopted Downtown Vision seeks to
concentrate the most intense Downtown development east of B St and closest to the
freeway and transit center, with 2-5 story building heights and higher densities. As stated
earlier in staff's responses, the building height proposed by the conceptual project
appears to be in scale with those existing in the immediate neighborhood.
2. The proposed density exceeds that which is allowed for the site and the project will be
required to request allowance of the additional density as a concession under the State
Density Bonus law. The traffic study will be an important part of the City Council's
determination to. approve the project or not. The City Engineer is requiring revisions to
the submitted traffic study.
3. While guest parking is required for the project, under the current Zoning Ordinance, the
Board requested guest parking during their conceptual review.
4. At their conceptual review of the project, the Board requested additional information and
details on the operations of the proposed mechanical parking lifts.
2
Planning Commission Study Session
July 25, 2017; CDR17-005
703 Third St. Residential Project
Exhibit 4
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Meeting Date:
SAN RAFAEL A,..d,lnm
THE CITY WITH A MISSION
Community Development Department— Planning Division
July 25, 2017
3
Case Numbers: P17-0092017-002
Project Planner: Raffi Boloyan (415) 485-3095
REPORT TO PLANNING COMMISSION
SUBJECT: Second Dwelling Unit/Accessory Dwelling Units — Study Session regarding revisions
to the City's Accessory (Second) Dwelling Unit Ordinance due to recent changes in
State law governing Accessory Dwelling Units and. Junior Accessory Dwelling Units;
Citywide, City of San Rafael, applicant, Case File(s): P1 7-009/ZO1 7-002.
Recent bills adopted by the California legislature require the City to update its Accessory (Second)
Dwelling Unit (ADU) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU) ordinances to fully comply with State
mandates. While some of the State -mandated revisions are relatively minor in nature and leave little
room for local discretion, other aspects of the State code have more significant impact to former
regulations and the City's has some ability to consider different approaches to minimize impacts.
One major change resulting from the recent state law is the elimination of off-street parking requirements
for second units in most parts of the City and this could have longer term impacts on areas of the city,
notably in hillside areas with narrow streets.
The following discussion outlines those items that staff is seeking discussion and direction from the
Commission, including Unit Size, Parking, Designated Areas, Use Permit, and Setbacks for Conversions.
Other minor changes are also required by State law, but leave relatively little discretion regarding the
city's approach, include, among others: Density Definition, Deed Restriction, Fire Sprinklers, Minimum
Lot Size, and a few other areas
This informational item is an update on the recent changes in state law .and an opportunity for initial
feedback from the Commission, before staff commences the drafting of an Ordinance.
This is an initial informational report that will be followed by extensive public outreach and staff will return
to the Planning Commission and City Council at a later date with a proposed ordinance. It is
recommended that the Commission:
1. Accept public comment;
2. _Discuss and provide feedback and direction on suggested approaches and recommendations
and
3. Accept report.
A primary goal of the State of California is to provide additional housing opportunities, especially infill
housing near transit. The State has many initiatives to further housing .production, including the creation
of accessory dwelling units in single family residential areas. Accessory dwelling units are a component
REPORT TO PLANNING COMMISSION - Case No: P17-0092017-002 Page 2
of the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) allocation, assigned by the State to regions for
residential housing production. Both Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) and Junior Accessory Dwelling
Units (JADU) are an integral component in providing additional housing, especially smaller units which
are more affordable by design (due to the smaller size of second units). Aside from providing additional
housing opportunities, ADU's and JADU's also provide opportunities for homeowners to repurpose larger
homes and allow aging in place.
The City of San Rafael regulates the development of accessory dwelling units (or second units as
identified in the municipal code) through section I T 16 235 and junior accessory dwelling units (or junior
second units) through section 14.16.286 of the San Rafael Municipal Code. Accessory dwelling units
(ADU) are additional dwellings located on the same lot as a single-family residence which contain
separate living/sleeping, sanitary, and cooking facilities. A junior accessory dwelling unit (JADU) is an
additional, independent living unit which is created through the conversion of an existing bedroom within
an existing single-family residential dwelling aspart of the single-family use. San Rafael's current
ordinances include development standards (such as height, setback, and unit size), parking
requirements, and permit requirements (including discretionary review requirements). The general
highlights of the City's former ordinance are outlined in a city ADU Handout (Exhibit 1).
On January 1, 2017, the State Accessory Dwelling Unit .law (SB 1069 and AB 2299) took effect, which
established new statewide regulations and permitting requirements for accessory dwelling units under
California Government Code 65852.2. AB 2406 simultaneously took effect and establishes standards for
junior second dwelling units for cities that allow these types of units under California Government Code
65852.22. A local ordinance may be adopted to implement State law, provided that it complies with all
requirements under State law. Existing local ordinances that did not comply with the requirements under
State law on January 1" were considered null and void until such time as the local jurisdiction adopts an
updated ordinance in compliance with the provisions of the updated State law. In this case, local
governments must apply the provisions of State law until a compliant ordinance is adopted. The State
law applies to local agencies, including both general law and charter cities.
The former San Rafael ordinance does not comply with several of the provisions of the updated State
law, therefore requirements under State law are in effect until a compliant ordinance is adopted by the
City. In the interim, the City developed an updated ADU informational handout to outline revised
requirements under implementation of State requirements (Exhibit 2). Of particular note, the updated
ADU handout acknowledges the likely update to San Rafael's ordinance in response to the updated
State requirements pertaining to ADUs and puts applicants on notice that further changes to the
requirements are anticipated.
Several notable requirements established by the new State law include:
Ministerial Approval All ADU applications are approved as ministerial permits if all applicable
criteria are satisfied. This means there are no public hearings or public
notice and as long as the ADU meets the established standards, it must
be approved.
Parking Exceptions Onsite parking is not required if an ADU meets the following:
• is located within one-half mile of public transit;
• is located within an architecturally and historically significant
historic district;
• is part of the existing primary residence or an existing accessory
structure;
• is located in an area where on -street parking permits are
required but not ,offered to the occupant of the accessory
dwelling unit; or is located within one block of an available car
REPORT TO PLANNING COMMISSION - Case No: P17-009/ZO17-002 Page 3
share vehicle.
Parking Conversion When covered parking is removed to construct an ADU (e.g., conversion
of a garage to an ADU), the jurisdiction may require the parking spaces
to be replaced. The replacement spaces may be located on the same lot
in any configuration. No longer does covered parking removed have to
be replaced with covered parking.
Fire Sprinklers Fire Sprinklers are not required for an ADU if they are not required for
the primary residence.
Fees and Utilities Accessory dwelling units are not considered new residential uses for the
purposes of calculating local agency connection fees or capacity
charges for utilities, including water and sewer service. A local agency
may require a new or separate utility connection directly between the
accessory dwelling unit and the utility, but fees shall be proportional to
the burden created by the ADU. Units contained within an existing
structure shall not be required to install new utility connections.
ADUs within Existing A local agency must ministerially approve an application to create an
Structure ADU on a single-family lot within a single-family residential zone if the
unit is contained within the existing space of a single-family residence or
accessory structure, has independent exterior access from the existing
residence, and the side and rear setbacks are sufficient for fire safety.
The City's former second dwelling unit ordinance (ADU ordinance) contained provisions that had both
more rigid standards or allowed flexibility for certain types of accessory units. However, given that the
State law has voided the City's ordinance, these provisions are no long applicable unless the City
chooses to include them in the new ordinance. Examples included:
• Allowing detached ADUs to exceed the typical 15 feet height limit for accessory structures. The
concept was to allow some flexibility for accessory units to be built above detached garages. Any
such proposal to allow an ADU to exceed the 15 feet height limit was subject to a discretionary
planning approval (Use Permit from Planning Commission).
• ADUs in accessory structures that were located closer to the property lines than the setback
requirements for the main structure could be allowed, subject to a discretionary planning approval
(Use Permit from Planning Commission)
• Requiring for discretionary planning approval (Use Permit from Planning Commission) for larger
ADUs, those greater than 800 square feet.
In the update of the San Rafael ordinance, the City has discretion on imposing certain standards
including, but are not limited to, parking, height, setback, lot coverage, landscape, architectural review,
maximum size of a unit, and standards that prevent adverse impacts on any real property that is listed in
the California Register of Historic Places. Minimum requirements are allowed to be less restrictive than
those proposed in State law.
A local agency is allowed to designate geographic areas where ADUs are or are not permitted, but ADUs
within existing structures of single family zones must be permitted. Designating areas where ADU's are
not permitted should be approached primarily based on issues of health and safety, including water,
sewer, traffic flow and public safety. A local agency may choose to avoid designating areas with health
and safety risks, or it may allow ADUs through an ancillary and separate discretionary process. In
establishing regulations for ADUs and designation of areas, local agencies shall consider whether any
REPORT TO PLANNING COMMISSION - Case No: P17-009/ZO17-002 Page 4
proposed provision may unreasonably restrict the ability of homeowners to create ADUs, contrary to the
intent of State law.
Second Unit (ADU) Activity:
In San Rafael, the main barrier to creating new second units has historically been the parking
requirements. The recent elimination of many of the parking requirements by the State has opened up
the opportunity for ADUs to be created/legalized. Since the State Law went into effect, the number of
applications has increased:
Time period # of applications Avg. # per year
1/ 2010 -12/2016 46 7.7
1/2017 — 6/2017 19 38 * New State Law in effect
*Estimated based on applications received through of mid -point of year
As demonstrated above, the new State law has removed many of the regulatory barriers that were
formerly faced by persons seeking to build new units and which may have hindered the creation of new
second units (ADUs) on their properties. However, it is important to note that many of the regulations the
City (as well as other communities throughout California) had in place were designed to ensure that
ADUs integrate into a neighborhood and not negatively surrounding properties, through standards for
provision of adequate parking, size limits, setbacks, etc.
Projected out for the rest of this year, we could receive approximately 38 applications for 2017. Many of
these second units that are being applied for do not provide any parking given: 1) their proximity to transit
(1/2 mile from bus line) or 2) the fact that they are converting existing building area. The long term impact
of additional units being created without additional off street parking, needs to be considered, particularly
in hillside areas or narrow streets, with limited street parking.
Although much of the former San Rafael Accessory Dwelling Unit ordinance complies with State law,
portions of the ordinance require modification to bring it, into compliance. A complete' -evaluation and
analysis of the implications of the state law and its impacts to the Cities former ordinance has been
prepared that details all the changes from the State law and how it relates to the City's former Ordinance
(Exhibit 3).
The following are key areas that require update to comply with State law and warrant discussion to guide
the drafting of the zoning text amendments that will be prepared to bring local ordinance into compliance.
Unit Size: Recently adopted State law allows for ADUs up to 50% of the size of the principal
dwelling, with a maximum of 1,200 square feet in area'. However, State law also clarifies that
local jurisdictions can adopt a smaller maximum size limit under their local ordinance. San
Rafael's local ordinance previously provided for ADUs up to 1,000 square feet or 40% of the size
of the principal dwelling, which ever was smaller. San Rafael's ordinance also required that any
unit proposed between 800 to 1,000 square feet obtain approval of a Use Permit from the
Planning Commission
Options:
Y Maintain existing 1,000 square foot maximum;
' Note that unit size maximums apply to attached and detached ADUs. State law does not expressly
state that ADU created from conversion of space within existing structures can be regulated in terms of
size through the ADU ordinance.
REPORT TO PLANNING COMMISSION - Case No: P17-009/ZO17-002
Page 5
• Increase maximum unit size to 1,200 square feet to track with maximum allowed under
State law; or
• Decrease maximum unit size below 1,000 square feet for new ADUs.
2. Parking Waivers: New parking exceptions have been introduced in State law, which effectively
remove the parking requirement for most areas of the city that would be eligible for construction
of ADUs. Onsite parking is not required if a site is within:
• within Y2 mile of a transit stop,
• within a designated historic district,
• within an area with a designated parking permit program and said permits are not
available to the ADU occupant,
• within one block of a car share vehicle, or
• when the ADU is created within an existing structure.
San Rafael does not have any designated residential parking programs or a designated historic
district containing residential properties. However, the current bus routes and corresponding
transit stops effectively make nearly all of San Rafael within the'/ mile buffer of a transit stop.
This includes some of the hillside residential areas above Lincoln Ave, Gerstle Park, and West
End, where streets are extremely narrow and street parking is limited. (Exhibit 4).
Provisions under State law allow a local jurisdiction to designate specific areas to prohibit ADUs if
it is determined that allowing ADUs would create health and safety issues. For discussion as it
relates to the changes in parking requirements for ADUs, how should "transit stop" be defined in
the City's local ordinance to determine areas exempt from parking requirements, should parking
be waived for all ADUs in an effort to facilitate and encourage the creation of additional housing in
the city, are there areas within San Rafael that waiving onsite parking requirements could create
a significant health and safety impact, and should a discretionary process be established to
evaluate ADUs in areas with health and safety impacts, such as narrow road widths (further
discussed in Topic 4. Designating Areas for ADUs)?
Options:
• Add verbatim language from State law regarding parking waivers;, or
• Create modified language to local ADU ordinance to address unique circumstances in
San Rafael that increase negative impacts if onsite parking is waived (narrow streets,
topography, etc)
3. Parking for JADUs. State law states that additional parking cannot be required for JADUs, but
that cities may set regulations for residences that contain JADUs as long as they apply uniformly
to all single-family residences whether or not they have JADUs. San Rafael's JADU Ordinance
did not require additional parking for the JADU, but required that the main residence have code
compliant parking (2 covered spaces). This issue was discussed in detail by the Planning
Commission and City Council as part of the adoption of the JADU Ordinance in 2016 and it was
ultimately adopted with the requirement that the main house have two code compliant covered
spaces and the City would monitor the JADU's and report back to the Commission and Council
for further review and potential elimination of that requirement.
Given the new State law regarding ADU and JADU, parking requirements have been significantly
reduced for new ADU's, particularly if located within an existing structure. Determination should
be made on whether the former ADU language would effectively require additional parking for
JADUs that would not otherwise be required.
REPORT TO PLANNING COMMISSION - Case No: P17-009/ZO17-002
Page 6
Options:
• Modify former ADU language that says "...The main single-family dwelling must meet the
current off-street parking standard in effect at the time the junior second unit is approved"
to state that "No additional parking is required beyond that required when the existing
primary dwelling was constructed."; or
• Leave former ADU language as it was written.
4. Designating Areas for ADUs: State Law allows local agencies to designate geographical areas
where ADUs are allowed and restrict ADUs from certain areas based on potential health and
safety impacts. Traffic flow is specifically identified as a potential impact of ADUs that may justify
designating some areas as inappropriate for allowance of ADUs. As parking exceptions and other
restrictions introduced in the State law may lead to difficulties in regulating ADUs and create
potential impacts, a determination should be made on whether to restrict ADUs in specific areas
of the city. A key consideration is to not unreasonably restrict the ability to create ADUs generally
in San Rafael.
Options:
• Maintain current code allowance for ADUs on all residential lots containing a single family
dwelling. This maintains the current code but may not address unique impacts created by
State law provisions such as the parking waivers;
• Modify code to limit areas where ADUs are permitted. Would hillside areas with narrow
roads create health, safety, or traffic flow impacts that warrant restricting ADUs; or
• Ancillary Review for Risk Areas. ADU permits must be ministerial, however an ancillary
discretionary process can be used to permit ADUs in areas with health and safety risks,
such as high fire hazard areas. According to the Department of Housing and Community
Development (HCD) Accessory Dwelling Unit Memorandum, December 2016 (Exhibit 5),
ADUs can be allowed "through an ancillary and separate discretionary process in areas
with health and safety risks." This option would allow San Rafael to require case by case
review for ADUs through a use permit or other discretionary process in.areas where there
is a health or safety concern.
5. Use Permits: Although ADU permits must be approved ministerially if they meet the established
development standards, ADUs requesting exceptions from the established baseline requirements
may be permitted through a Use Permit. For example, if a standard height requirement is
established for ADUs, the ADU ordinance may allow for height exceeding this limit through Use
Permit approval. State law focuses on establishing a ministerial process for ADUs. However,
HCD recognizes the use of discretionary processes for ADUs that do not comply with standards
and provides guidance in the Accessory Dwelling Unit Memorandum, December 2016, which
features a sample ordinance with language for a Use Permit process. The City's former ADU
ordinance allows for exceptions through a Use Permit process for size, height, and setbacks.
Options:
• Maintain current Use Permit provisions to allow exceptions from standard requirements;
• -Maintain current Use Permit provisions to allow exceptions from standard requirements,
however specify that said Use Permits will be administratively reviewed (instead of the
current Planning Commission level required); or
• Remove Use Permit provisions and exceptions to baseline standards to create a solely
ministerial process.
• Revise language so that any exception from the established ADU standards - not just
size, height, and setbacks — may be requested through a Use Permit.
6. Exceptions to Standards: The City's ADU ordinance had provided exceptions for unit size (800
square feet benchmark until Planning Commission review required), height (15 foot limit), and
REPORT TO PLANNING COMMISSION - Case No: P17 -009/Z017-002
Page 7
setbacks (within side or rear setbacks) through a Use Permit process. Consider whether
exceptions should continue to be granted for these standards (or other development standards)
and what process should be used. Consider what types of discretionary processes are desired
and for what aspects.
Options:
• Continue to provide a Use Permit process for ADUs that do not meet standards
established in the ADU ordinance. Consider what findings would be needed to grant the
exceptions;
• Provide another review process for exceptions to standards;
• Establish a ministerial process only but change standards for unit size, height, or setbacks
to allow more opportunities for ADUs within a ministerial process; or
• Establish a ministerial process only and do not change standards. Do not provide a
discretionary process for exceptions to standards.
7. Setbacks for Conversions: ADUs created within the space of existing structures are not subject
to setback requirements (other than required for fire safety). Additionally, State law only expressly
states that this provision is required for structures in single-family lots within single -family -districts.
Options:
• Add provisions providing for setback exception for single-family lots only in single-family
districts; or
• Add provisions providing for setback exception more broadly to cover single-family lots in
any residential district, exceeding the minimum requirements under State law.
In addition to the items discussed above, there are several areas that San Rafael's former ADU
ordinance will necessitate updating to comply with State law. These modifications are more minor in
scope and generally clarify provisions or update text for consistency.
1. Density Definition: Update current language in the ADU and JADU ordinance to be more similar
to State law: Rephrasing the current language "ADUs are not required to meet density
requirements" to say "ADU is not considered to exceed the allowable density".
2. Deed -restriction: Ensure deed -restriction is correctly referenced for both ADUs and JADUs
since there are unique requirements, such as unit size, for each.
3. Fire Sprinklers: ADUs are not required to provide fire sprinklers if they are not required -for the
main residence. This language is missing in the ADU ordinance and can be added as a new
subsection.
4. Minimum Lot Size: Minimum lot size restrictions are not applicable to conversions of existing
structures into ADUs. This provision needs to be added.
5. Removal of Discretionary Review Requirements. Several areas of the ADU ordinance state
the need for discretionary approval required for ADUs, which should be removed as ADU permits
must be ministerial and shall be approved if standards are met. Discretionary review shall not be
required for approval of ADUs that meet standards, but can be requested for ADUs seeking
exceptions to established standards.
6. Architectural Review: Changes in State law mandate that applications for ADUs be processed
ministerially. Architectural compatibility in particular must have criteria that can be affirmed
ministerially and may only require discretionary review if it is an application to exceed standards,
REPORT TO PLANNING COMMISSION - Case No: P17 -009/Z017-002
Page 8
such as height, unit size, etc. Clarification will be added to add criteria under which architectural
compatibility can be considered under ministerial review.
7. Passageways: Passageways cannot be required for ADUs per State law. This issue is not
address in San Rafael's former ADU ordinance and will need to be incorporated into the revised
ordinance.
8. Fees and Utility Connections: ADUs are not considered new residential units for the purposes
of calculating fee and utility connections. While San Rafael's existing fee structure is essentially
consistent with this provision, language should be added to the updated ordinance to further
clarify the limited ability to collect utility fees per State law.
9. Time Limit: Ministerial approval of ADUs must be within 120 after receiving and application for a
new ADU. This language is missing in the ADU ordinance and can be added as new subsection
for this requirement.
10. Fire and Life Protection (JADU). State law provisions for JADU in terms of fire and life
protection need to be incorporated into the updated ordinance.
11. Utility Service (JADU). Add State law provisions on utility definitions (i.e. add "power" to current
list of utilities and add that requirements for the single-family residence of the JADU can apply for
the JADU).
Given tht there is no action or decision on this item, the proposed project is exempt from the
requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). While preparing the Draft Ordinance,
CEQA will be considered .and appropriate level of analysis and the CEQA determination will be provided
at that time.
Notice of this meeting was provided 15 days in advance to the Federation of San Rafael Neighborhoods,
North San Rafael Coalition, Pt San Pedro Rd Coalition, Chamber of Commerce, Marin Builders
Exchange and Lilly Pad homes. This informational report is the first step in a public process that will
occur over the next 4-6 months, as staff presents the Draft Ordinance to the community, solicits
feedback, and brings the Draft Ordinance to the Planning Commission and City Council. Given the
significant change to State law, it was appropriate for staff to inform the Commission of these changes
and solicit any initial comments through this information report, before progressing through the public
outreach and Planning Commission then City Council review.
At the time of the preparation of this report, no written or oral comments have been received.
1. Former Second Unit Handout (City of San Rafaen
2. Interim ADU Handout (City of San Rafaen
3. ADU Study Session Topics Memo
4. Transit Stop Radius Map
5. HCD Accessory Dwelling Unit Memorandum, December 2016
CITY OF SECOND
44TDWELLING
UNITS
What are the Rules for Legal Conforming or Non -conforming Second
Dwelling Units?
A an existing unit constructed and established prior to adoption of zoning regulations for second
units may be protected under Section 14.16.060 (Conservation of Dwelling Units). To
determine applicability, the owner must produce evidence that the unit was either legally
established prior to 1950 (prior to adoption of the City's first Zoning Code) or constructed prior
to January 1, 1991. This may require submittal of documentation and a zoning determination
request to the Planning Division. Typically, evidence is provided through building permit
records. If such records do not exist, evidence could include documentation of the residential
building record used for assessment purposes, which may be obtained from the County
Assessor's office.
What are the Building Permit Requirements?
The unit must have a separate address and `path of travel' to and from a public way. For an
T — -- attached unit, there must be a "1 -hour separation" between the unit and main residence. The
unit must have a separate heating control system. A detached unit must have its own minimum
60 amp feed for power. All rooms must meet minimum standards for light and ventilation. All
"sleeping rooms" must have direct access (window or door) to the outside.
Minimum dimensions for living units are as follows:
• Studio: 220 sq. ft. (not incl. closet and bathroom).
• One, plus bedrooms: Main room - 120 sq. ft. / 7 ft. min. dimension. Other rooms
(except kitchens) - 70 sq. ft. / 7 ft. min. dimension.
• Ceiling height for habitable rooms is 7.5 ft., and kitchen, hallways, & bathroom is 7 ft.
A suitable kitchen facility must be separate from the bathroom and provide a sink, cooking
facility (more than a hot plate or microwave), refrigeration and storage. A suitable bathroom
facility must include a toilet, sink and bathing facilities.
Last Updated. 04.07.16
Exhibit 1-1
What is a Second Dwelling Unit?
Planning Division
A Second Dwelling Unit (aka, "in-law" or "granny" unit) is an additional dwelling located on
the same lot as a single-family residence which contains separate living/sleeping, sanitary, and
City of San Rafael
cooking facilities. A second unit may be located within the principal dwelling or can be in a
detached accessory building. The unit cannot be sold separately from the principal dwelling.
Community Development
Department DeptAvenue
What is the Review Process?
1400 5"'San
Rafael, CA 94941
Second units are subject to ministerial review by the Planning Division prior to issuance of a
(495) 485-3085
building permit. Additional zoning entitlements may be required, as specified in San Rafael
Municipal Code Section 14.16.285. A second unit review fee ($_—) and application form
{415) 485-3184
along with project plans (_ sets) must be submitted to the Planning Division which will verify
plann!ng@cityofsanrafael.org
whether the unit complies with the Second Unit Performance Standards. If building permit
www.cityofsanrafael.org
clearance is granted, a Second Unit deed restriction must be recorded for the property.
!
Can an Existing (Unpermitted) Second Unit be legalized?
Yes. The unit must ineet all requirements fora second unit, and obtain planning review of a
Second Dwelling Unit. Building permit fees to legalize an existing unauthorized second unit
will be tripled and planning fees will be doubled.
What are the Rules for Legal Conforming or Non -conforming Second
Dwelling Units?
A an existing unit constructed and established prior to adoption of zoning regulations for second
units may be protected under Section 14.16.060 (Conservation of Dwelling Units). To
determine applicability, the owner must produce evidence that the unit was either legally
established prior to 1950 (prior to adoption of the City's first Zoning Code) or constructed prior
to January 1, 1991. This may require submittal of documentation and a zoning determination
request to the Planning Division. Typically, evidence is provided through building permit
records. If such records do not exist, evidence could include documentation of the residential
building record used for assessment purposes, which may be obtained from the County
Assessor's office.
What are the Building Permit Requirements?
The unit must have a separate address and `path of travel' to and from a public way. For an
T — -- attached unit, there must be a "1 -hour separation" between the unit and main residence. The
unit must have a separate heating control system. A detached unit must have its own minimum
60 amp feed for power. All rooms must meet minimum standards for light and ventilation. All
"sleeping rooms" must have direct access (window or door) to the outside.
Minimum dimensions for living units are as follows:
• Studio: 220 sq. ft. (not incl. closet and bathroom).
• One, plus bedrooms: Main room - 120 sq. ft. / 7 ft. min. dimension. Other rooms
(except kitchens) - 70 sq. ft. / 7 ft. min. dimension.
• Ceiling height for habitable rooms is 7.5 ft., and kitchen, hallways, & bathroom is 7 ft.
A suitable kitchen facility must be separate from the bathroom and provide a sink, cooking
facility (more than a hot plate or microwave), refrigeration and storage. A suitable bathroom
facility must include a toilet, sink and bathing facilities.
Last Updated. 04.07.16
Exhibit 1-1
ti r SECOND
-
DWELLINGUNITS
❑ Density/ A minimum 5,000 square foot lot size developed with a single-family residence is required in order to qualify for a
Mia. Lot Size second unit. Only one second unit (or junior unit) is allowed in addition to the main -unit per lot.
❑ Owner The property owner must reside in either the principal or the second unit.
Occupancy
❑ Deed A deed restriction must be recorded with the County Recorder so that future owners of the property will be aware of
Restriction the requirements (such as owner occupancy). The sample format for the deed restriction is attached to this handout.
Proof of recordation must be submitted to the Planning Division prior to issuance of a building permit or after Second
Unit.application has been processed. --
❑ Size Limits At no time shall the size of the second unit exceed 40% of the gross square footage of the principal dwelling,
excluding the garage, extent that the floor area of a second unit may be a minimum of 500 square feet, regardless of
the size of the house. The maximum size of a second unit is 1,0.00 square feet provided that any second unit over 800
square feet in size also requires Planning Commission Use Permit approval.
❑ Height If the unit is added to arip ncipal single-family dwelling, the height limit is 30 feet above grade. If a unit is proposed
as an accessory structure, the height limit is 15 feet. (I.e., consistent with the underlying zoning district standards for
height limits and measurement). Note that Use Permit and/or Design Review permits may be required for second units
in accessory structures that exceed the height limit.
❑ Setbacks Second dwelling units added or attached to the principal residence shall be subject to the setback requirements
otherwise applicable to the principal residential structure. Second dwelling units constructed as a separate detached
accessory building shall be subject to the setback requirements otherwise applicable to accessory structures. Note that
Use Permit and/or Design Review permits may be required for second units in accessory structures that are located
within the required setbacks.
Design Review and approval of a discretionary Environmental and Design Review Permit by the Planning Commission
Review pursuant to Chapter 14.25 will be required for any second unit proposed as follows:
• An upper story addition to the main residence that exceeds 500sf
• A detached unit that is two -stories
• A detached unit located within side or rear yard setbacks required for the main structure setbacks
• New construction on a lot subject to the Hillside Overlay (-H) District Development regulations; if required
for the addition per Chapter's 14.12 and 14.25
Note: Upon application for review, the Community Development Directory may propose to downgrade review to the
Zoning Administrator level, if a concurrent Use Permit is not required.
Use Permit Review and approval of a discretionary Use Permit by the Planning Commission is required for any second unit
proposed as follows:
• A detached unit that exceeds the 15 foot height limit and/or located within side or rear yard setbacks required
for the main structure
• A second unit that exceeds 800 square feet in size (up 1,000 square feet)
❑ Parking Studio or 1 -bedroom second unit: 1 space 2 or more -bedroom second unit: 2 spaces
Parking for the second unit may be uncovered. One parking space for the second unit may be in the front yard on a
paved area between the driveway and the nearest side property line, parallel to the driveway. On parcels having
frontage on a street with a paved width of at least 38 feet, one parking space for the second unit may be tandem
(located behind a parking space for the principal dwelling), located on a driveway which is at least 18 feet in length
behind the property line.
❑ Architectural Prior to approval a City planner will review the design plans (and visit the project site in the case of legalizing a second
Compatibility unit) to ensure that the second unit incorporates the same or similar exterior colors, architectural detailing, roof pitch
same or similar and exterior materials, and window style, as the structure containing the principal residence.
❑ Entrance The second unit must have a separate entrance from the principal dwelling. In order to maintain the appearance of a
single-family residence, the entrances to the second unit and principal dwelling unit cannot be located on the same side
(elevation) of the principal dwelling most parallel to the front property line.
Last Updated. 04.07.16
Exhibit 1-2
RECORDED AT REQUEST OF
CITY OF SAN RAFAEL
WHEN RECORDED RETURN TO:
City of San Rafael
Community Development Director
P.O. Box 151560
San Rafael, CA 94915-1560
DECLARATION OF RESTRICTIONS
RE: SECOND DWELLING UNIT
Declarant(s) and is/are the fee title owner(s) of the property at
, San Rafael (hereafter the "Property") also identified as Marin
County Assessor's Parcel No.
RECITALS
A. Declarant(s) acquired title to the Property by Deed No(s).
B. Declarant(s) has/have applied to the City of San Rafael for approval of Seco Dwelling Unit on the
Property.
C. The purpose of this Declaration is to set forth as res tri tin the Prop rty, and as covenants running
with the land, those conditions which relate to thews of the a dwelli g units on the Property.
NOW THEREFORE, based on the foregoing, eclarnt(s' , J iaes'declare as fbllo
1. The Second Dwelling Unit on rop . ll o be sold separate! from the primary residence on
the Property.
2. The Second DwellUnit s all be restrieted to the maximum size allowed per the development
standards in San RafalMun4plal Code § 14,16.28r(C)(b).
3. The second dwelli shaW b considered legal. only so long as either the primary residence, or the
Second Dwelling U it, is occ;ied by the owner"of record of the Property.
4. The restrictions shall be bihdiug upon any successor in ownership of the Property and lack of
compliance may subj�ct the roperty owner to enforcement action by the City.
DATED: BY:
Owner
(Print Name)
DATED: BY:
Owner
(Print Name)
[Attach Notary Certificates (Acknowledgements)]
Last Updated: 04.07.16
Exhibit 1-3
Interim Accessory Dwelling Unit
TONING APPLICATION
REQUIREMENTS
What are the Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Submittal Requirements for a Zoning Application?
✓ General Application Form. The form must be filled out completely, shall identify all zoning
entitlement(s) being requested, and shall be signed by the applicant and property owner
Unsigned applications shall not be accepted for filing.
✓ Fees. The fee for an ADU review is a flat fee of $300. Checks should be made payable to the
City of San Rafael. Applications shall not be accepted for filing until all required fees are
submitted.
Project Pians. To review the plans for an ADU the Planning Division requires an initial
submittal of four (4) hardcopies of plans drawn accurately, legible and to scale. Plans shall be
on same -sized sheets (2436 or 11x17) and be collated.
The project plans initially submitted shall include the following information:
❑ Site Plan. The site plan should show the entire property, including the existing and proposed
structures/additions, property lines, setbacks, parking spaces, and natural features such as
large trees.
❑ Floor Plan. The floor plan should show the existinq and proposed floor plan. The necessary
information needed on the plans is listed below:
• Floor Levels (1St and 2"d floor, etc.), Walls, Windows, Doors, Equipment, Rooms and Uses;
existing and proposed
• Location, Dimensions and Square Footage of project area
• Scale, Graphic Scale and North arrow
• Orient floor plans to match site plan orientation
❑ Project Description/Details. The description should include basic information such as:
• Building square footage (existing and proposed), primary unit square footage, ADU
square footage, and garage square footage.
• Zoning Designation
• Scope of work
• Lot coverage (existing and proposed)
Exterior Changes? Yes or No
If yes, the following is required at the time of submittal:
❑ Elevations. For projects involving exterior building changes or new structures the plans need
to contain the following:
• Elevations for all sides of structure(s), to scale and dimensioned, existing and proposed.
Photos may be used to represent existing elevations and elevations that remain unchanged.
❑ Roof Plan. Roof plan shall show property lines, outline of building footprint, direction and slope
of drainage, location of drainage collectors, rooftop structures (i.e., vents, equipment,
screening, access), material, ridge elevations, various roof levels and slopes
""Applications not providing the information above will not be accepted for processing"**"
***This is a simplified submittal checklist for ADUs for a complete list of submittal requirements please review the Application Submittal Checklist Handout***
Exhibit 2-1
What is an Accessory Dwelling Unit?
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (aka, "second unit," "in-law unit," or "granny unit") is an additional dwelling located on the same
lot as a single-family residence. An Accessory Dwelling Unit may be attached to the primary residence, detached from the
primary residence, or contained within an existing residence or accessory structure. An Accessory Dwelling Unit cannot
be sold separately from the primary residence.
What is the Review Process?
Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are subject to ministerial review by the Planning Division. Applicants wanting to establish
an ADU need to submit the General Application form, along with an ADU review fee ($300), and project plans to the
Planning Division for review. The Planning Division is required to approve or deny the application within 120 days of
receiving the application. When an ADU application has been approved by the Planning Division, the property owner must
fill out and sign a deed -restriction before a notary, record the deed -restriction with the county clerk and return the original
recorded deed -restriction to the Planning Division prior to the issuance of a building permit. For questions, please contact
the Planning Division at (415) 485-3085.
What Regulations Apply to Accessory Dwelling Units?
On January 1, 2017 new state regulations pertaining to Accessory Dwelling Units (Government Code 65852.2) became
effective and necessitate revisions to San Rafael's existing accessory dwelling unit ordinance. Until San Rafael adopts a
new ordinance, the interim requirements for Accessory Dwelling Units are presented below but may change once the City
adopts a new Accessory Dwelling Unit Ordinance.
Exhibit 2-2
Requirement
Accessory Dwelling Unit Contained in
Accessory Dwelling Unit Involving New
Existing Structure
Construction (Attached or Detached)
❑
Lot
The lot must be zoned for single-family or multifamily use and must contain an existing single -
Requirements
family residence. Only one accessory dwelling unit (or junior accessory dwelling unit) is allowed
per lot.
❑
Owner
The property owner must reside in either the primary residence or the accessory dwelling unit or
Occupancy
junior accessory dwelling unit.
❑
Deed
A deed restriction must be recorded with the County Recorder so that future owners of the
Restriction
property are aware of requirements and limitations (see sample deed restriction below). The
sample format for the deed restriction is attached to this handout. Proof of recordation must be
submitted to the Planning Division prior to issuance of a building permit.
❑
Size Limits
A new ADU is limited to a floor area not to exceed 50% of the primary residence up to a maximum
of 1,200 sq. ft.
❑
Required
An ADU shall provide a separate bathroom and a separate kitchen from the existing residence.
Facilities
❑
Entrance
A new ADU requires a separate exterior entrance.
❑
Setbacks
Setbacks must be sufficient for fire safety.
Attached - The ADU shall follow the required
setbacks for the zoning district in which it is located.
Detached — The ADU is required to provide a
minimum setback of three feet (3') from the property
line and the primary residence.
❑
Parking Space
No additional parking is required.
One (1) parking space per bedroom is required to be
Requirements
provided on-site. However, no additional parking is
required when the ADU is located within a half mile
of a transit stop, within a designated historic district,
within a block from car share facilities, or where on -
street parking permits are required but not offered
for ADUs. The applicant shall demonstrate
meeting of the above condition if parking is not
provided.
Exhibit 2-2
Exhibit 2-3
Requirement
Accessory Dwelling Unit Contained in
Accessory Dwelling Unit Involving New
Existing Structure
Construction (Attached or Detached)
❑
Utilities
New or separate utility connections are
New or separate utility connections may be required,
not required.
but connection fees or capacity charges shall be
proportional to the impact of the ADU on the water
or sewer systems. Contact the following entities for
additional information related to utility connections:
Marin Municipal Water District — (415)945-1455
San Rafael Sanitation District — (415)485-3132
Las Gallinas Valley Sanitary — (415)472-1734
PG&E — (877)660-6789
❑
Fire
Fire sprinklers are not required for a new
Fire sprinklers are not required for a new ADU if they
Protection
ADU if they are not required for the
are not required for the primary residence.
primary residence. However, fire
sprinklers may be required if the remodel
Although not required, applicants planning new
is considered substantial by the Fire
detached ADUs are encouraged to seek Fire
Prevention Bureau.
Department recommendations on fire sprinklers.
Fire Prevention Bureau — (415)485-3308.
Fire Prevention Bureau — (415)485-3308.
❑
Height
The ADU shall comply with the height
Attached - The ADU shall follow the required height
requirement for the applicable Zoning
limit for the applicable Zoning District.
District.
Detached — The ADU shall not exceed fifteen feet
(16) in height, measured from grade to roof peak.
❑
Architectural
Prior to approval, a representative from the City's Planning Department will review the design plans
Compatibility
(and visit the project site in the case of legalizing an existing ADU) to ensure that modifications
associated with the ADU incorporate the same or similar exterior colors, architectural detailing, roof
pitch, and window style, as the structure containing the primary residence.
Conversion of a Legal Garage and ADU Addition Above Garage
❑
Parking
When a garage, carport, or covered parking structure is converted into an accessory dwelling unit
the required parking for the single-family residence shall be replaced. The replacement parking
may be in any configuration on the same lot as the accessory dwelling unit. This includes but not
limited to, covered spaces, uncovered spaces, tandem spaces, or use of mechanical automobile
parking lifts.
No additional parking is required for the ADU.
❑
Setback
No setback shall be required for an existing garage that is converted to an accessory dwelling unit,
and a setback of no more than five feet from the side and rear lot lines shall be required for an
accessory dwelling unit that is constructed above a garage.
Exhibit 2-3
RECORDED AT REQUEST OF
CITY OF SAN RAFAEL
WHEN RECORDED RETURN TO:
City of San Rafael
Community Development Director
P.O. Box 151560
San Rafael, CA 94915-1560
Declarant(s)
County Assessor's Parcel No.
DECLARATION OF RESTRICTIONS
RE: ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT
f
_ and is/are the fee tide owner(�� of the property at
San Rafael (hereafter the "Property") als6 identified as Marin
RECIT#LS
A. Declarant(s) acquired title to the Property boDeed No(s).
1
B. Declarant(s) has/have applied to the Laity of San Rafael for approval of an Accessory Dwelling Unit on
the Property.
C. The purpose of this Decla(tion is to set forth as restrictions on the Property, and as covenants running
with the land, those conditions which relate to the use of the two dwelling units on the Property.
NOW THEREFORE, lased on the foregoing, Declarant(s), declares/declare as follows:
1. The Accessory Dwelling Unit on the Property shall not be sold separately from the primary residence on
the 3�roperiy.
2. he Accessory Dwelling Unit shall be restricted to the maximum size allowed per the development
standards.
3. The Accessory Dwelling Unit shall be considered legal only so long as either the primary residence, or
the Accessory Dwelling Unit, is occupied by the owner of record of the Property.
4. The restrictions shall be binding upon any successor in ownership of the Property and lack of compliance
may subject the Property owner to enforcement action by the City.
DATED: BY:
Owner
(Print Name)
DATED: BY:
Owner
(Print Name)
[Attach Notary Certificates (Acknowledgements)]
Exhibit 2-4
MEMORANDUM
Date: May 15, 2017
To: Paul Jensen, Community Development Director
Raffi Boloyan, Planning Manager
From: Justin Shiu, Associate Planner
Heather Hines, Principal
Subject: ADU Ordinance Comparison and Modifications for Consideration
This memo highlights areas of the San Rafael Ordinance requiring modifications in response to recent
changes in State law associated with Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU). The San Rafael ADU ordinance is
14.16.285 and the Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU) ordinance is 14.16.286. The key areas of
consideration and discussion begin to outline topics for a City Council study session.
Key Areas of Consideration and Discussion
1. Parking Waivers: New parking exceptions have been introduced in State law, which can effectively
remove the parking requirement for most potential ADUs.
A. Determinations that should be discussed
i. Defining "transit stop". This has the effect of determining the 1/2 mile radius around transit
stops that is exempt from parking.
ii. Whether parking should be waived for all ADUs.
B. Options:
i. Add language from State law
ii. Make modifications prior to adding to the ADU ordinance.
C. See section A8. Parking — Parking Waivers below for additional details.
2. Parking for JADUs (JADU). Update parking requirement language. State law says additional
parking cannot be required for JADUs, but that cities may set regulations for residences that contain
JADUs as long as they apply uniformly to all single-family residences whether or not they have
JADUs. Determination should be made on whether the existing language would effectively require
additional parking for JADUs that would not otherwise be required.
A. Options:
i. Change existing language to proposed language (Recommended)
a. Existing: "...The main single-family dwelling must meet the current off-street parking
standard in effect at the time the junior second unit is approved"
b. Proposed: (based on HCD sample ordinance language): "No additional parking is
required beyond that required when the existing primary dwelling was constructed."
ii. Leave as is
B. See section 35. Parking for JADUs for additional details.
m-group.us
22561 Main Street, Suite 200, Hayward, CA 94541 510.634.8443
Exhibit 3-1
K
3. Designating Areas for ADUs: State Law allows local agencies to designate geographical areas
where ADUs are allowed and restrict ADUs from certain areas based on potential health and safety
impacts. Traffic flow is specifically identified as a potential impact of ADUs that may justify
designating some areas as inappropriate for allowance of ADUs. As parking exceptions and other
restrictions introduced in the State law may lead to difficulties in regulating ADUs and create potential
impacts, a determination should be made as to whether to change areas designated for ADUs. A key
consideration is not to unreasonably restrict the ability to create ADUs.
A. Options:
i. Allow ADUs on all residential lots containing a single family dwelling, which is currently
allowed
ii. Limit areas where ADUs are permitted.
a. Would hillside areas with narrow roads create health, safety, or traffic flow impacts
that warrant restricting ADUs?
iii. Ancillary Review for Risk Areas. ADU permits must be ministerial, however an ancillary
discretionary process can be used to permit ADUs in areas with health and safety risks,
such as high fire hazard areas. According to the MCD Accessory Dwelling Unit
Memorandum, December 2016, ADUs can be allowed "through an ancillary and separate
discretionary process in areas with health and safety risks."
4. Use Permits: Although ADUs permits must be approved ministerially if they meet the established
development standards, ADUs requesting exceptions from the established baseline requirements may
be permitted through a use permit. For example, if a standard height requirement is established for
ADUs, the ADU ordinance may allow for height exceeding this limit through a use permit approval.
The current ADU ordinance already allows for exceptions through a use permit process for size limit,
height, and setbacks.
A. Options:
i. Maintain current use permit provisions to allow exceptions from standard requirements.
ii. Maintain current use permit provisions to allow exceptions from standard requirements,
however allow these use permits to be approved at the administrative level.
iii. Remove use permit provisions and exceptions to baseline standards to create a solely
ministerial process.
5. Setbacks for Conversions: ADUs created within the space of existing structures are not subject to
setback requirements (other than required for fire safety). The exception needs to be added.
Additionally, State law only expressly states that this provision is required for structures in single-
family lots within single-family districts. A determination should be made as to whether this should
apply to single family lots in all residential districts.
A. Options:
i. Add setback exception for single-family lots only in single-family districts
ii. Add setback exception for single-family lots in any residential district
B. See section A5. Setbacks for Conversions below for additional details.
6. Combine the ADU and JADU Ordinances: A determination should be made as to whether the
ADU and JADU ordinances should be combined.
A. Options;
i. Combine ADU and JADU ordinances
a. Largely retain current structure of both sections but combine under section
14.16.285.
m-group.us 22561 Main Street, Suite 200, Hayward, CA 94541 510.634.8443
Exhibit 3-2
3
b. One ADU section featuring two subsections: Standard ADUs and Junior ADUs (i.e.,
deleting 14.16.286 and putting JADU content into ADU section 14.16.285)
c. Merge ADU and JADU sections and group standards together.
• One ADU section (similar to the current ADU ordinance) with standards that
specify whether the standard applies to ADUs or JADUs.
ii. Leave as separate code sections.
Areas of Minor Proposed Changes
1. Density Definition: Update current language in the ADU and JADU ordinance to be more similar to
State law: Rephrasing the current language "ADUs are not required to meet density requirements" to
say "ADU is not considered to exceed the allowable density"
A. Options:
i. Rephrase language. (Recommended)
ii. Leave as is.
B. See section Al. Density and 31. Density below for additional details.
2. Deed -restriction: Ensure deed -restriction is correctly referenced for both ADUs and JADUs since
there are unique requirements, such as unit size, for each
A. Options:
i. Create standalone ADU and JADU, deed restriction sections. (Recommended)
ii. Maintain the current consolidated deed -restriction section but update language to be
compatible with ADUs and JADUs.
B. See section A2. Deed -Restriction Requirement and 12. Deed -Restriction Requirement (JADU)
below for additional details.
3. Fire Sprinklers: ADUs are not required to provide fire sprinklers if they are not required for the
main residence. This language is missing in the ADU ordinance and can be added based on the
options below.
A. Options:
i. Add to an existing section in the ADU Ordinance.
ii. Create a new section for this requirement in the ADU Ordinance. (Recommended)
B. See section A3. Fire Sprinkler Requirement below for additional details.
4. Minimum Lot Size: Minimum lot size restrictions are not applicable to conversions of existing
structures into ADUs. This provision needs to be added.
A. Options:
i. Add the exception to existing lot size requirement.
ii. Rephrase section to distinguish lot size requirements between new construction and
conversions. (Recommended)
B. See section A4. Lot Size for Conversions below for additional details.
m-group.us 22561 Main Street, Suite 200, Hayward, CA 94541 510.634.8443
Exhibit 3-3
rd
5. Setbacks for ADUs over Garages: Setbacks of up to 5 feet may be established for ADUs
constructed over garages.
A. Options:
i. No setbacks required.
ii. Setback of up to 5 feet.
B. See section A6. Setbacks for ADUs over Garages for additional details.
6. Removal of Discretionary Review Requirements. Several areas of the ADU ordinance state the
need for discretionary approval required for ADUs, which should be removed as ADU permits must be
ministerial and shall be approved if standards are met.
A. Options:
i. Delete sections focused on discretionary review permits. (Recommended)
B. See sections A7. Parking — Remove Discretionary Provision; and All. Current Discretionary
Approval — Change to Ministerial.
7. Architectural Review: Changes in State Law mandate that applications for ADUs be processed
ministerially. Architectural compatibility in particular, must have criteria that can be affirmed
ministerially and may only require discretionary review if it is an application to exceed standards,
such as height, unit size, etc.
A. Options:
i. Clarify ministerial process in the Architectural Compatibility section. (Recommended)
ii. Leave as is, but ensure that ministerial review is put in practice.
B. See sections A10. Architectural Compatibility — Ministerial.
8. Passageways: Passageways cannot be required. This language is missing in the ADU ordinance and
can be added based on the options below.
A. Options:
i. Add to an existing section in the ADU Ordinance.
ii. Create a new section for this requirement in the ADU Ordinance. (Recommended)
B. See section Al2. Passageways for additional details.
9. Fees and Utility Connections: ADUs are not considered new residential units for the purposes of
calculating fee and utility connections. The provision from State law can be implemented through the
following options.
A. Options:
i. Add the language from State law as a new section within the ADU ordinance.
(Recommended)
ii. Add utility connection language from State law, but implement fee provisions in practice
without specifying fee provisions in the code.
B. See section A13. Fees and Utility Connections for additional details.
m-group.us 22561 Main Street, Suite 200, Hayward, CA 94541 510.634.8443
Exhibit 3-4
10. Time Limit: Ministerial approval of ADUs must be within 120 after receiving the ADU application.
This language is missing in the ADU ordinance and can be added based on the options below.
A. Options:
i. Add the language from State law as a new section within the ADU ordinance.
(Recommended)
ii. Do not add provision but implement in practice.
B. See section A14. Time Limit for Ministerial Review
11. Fire and Life Protection (JADU). Add State law provisions on JADU in terms of fire and life
protection (i.e. JADUs are not considered separate or new dwelling units and requirements for the
single-family residence of the JADU can apply for the JADU).
A. Options:
i. Add the language from State law as a new section within the JADU ordinance.
(Recommended)
ii. Do not add to the JADU ordinance, but ensure requirements are addressed elsewhere.
B. See section B. Fire and Life Protection for JADUs for additional details.
12. Utility Service (JADU). Add State law provisions on utility definitions (i.e. add "power" to current
list of utilities and add that requirements for the single-family residence of the JADU can apply for the
JADU).
A. Options:
i. Add the language from State law as a new section within the JADU ordinance.
(Recommended)
ii. Do not add to the JADU ordinance, but ensure requirements are addressed elsewhere.
B. See section 34. Utility Service for JADUs for additional details.
m-group,us
22561 Main Street, Suite 200, Hayward, CA 94541 510.634.8443
Exhibit 3-5
5
D
ADU ORDINANCE UPDATES
Al. Density
Proposed Change:
Rephrase to bring reference to density closer to the language in State law.
Code Comparison:
San Rafael Code
State Law
(C)(1) - A maximum of one
65852.2(a)(1)(C) Provide that accessory dwelling units do not exceed the
second dwelling unit shall be
pllowable density' for the lot upon which the accessory dwelling unit is located, and
permitted per residential lot
that accessory dwelling units are a residential use that is consistent with the
containing a single-family
existing general plan and zoning designation for the lot.
dwelling. Second dwelling
65852.2(a)(8) An accessory dwelling unit that conforms to this subdivision shall be
units are not required t
deemed to be an accessory use or an accessory building and shall not be
rneet denslty reuirement�
considered to exceed the allowable dens'sttit for the lot upon which it is located, and
shall be deemed to be a residential use that is consistent with the existing general
for the general plan or
zoning ordinance.
plan and zoning designations for the lot. The accessory dwelling unit shall not be
considered in the application of any local ordinance, policy, or program to limit
residential growth.
Options:
Option 1. Rephrase. Rephrase the San Rafael Code to be more in line with the wording in State law.
Example: An accessory dwelling unit that conforms to this section shall be deemed an accessory use and
shall not be considered to exceed the allowable density for the lot upon which it is located. An accessory
dwelling unit that conforms to this section shall be deemed a residential use consistent with the existing
general plan and zoning designation for the lot.
Option 2. Leave as is. San Rafael Code can remain as is if it is determined that the San Rafael code and
State law are not interpreted to have potentially different meanings.
A2. Deed -Restriction Requirement
Proposed Change:
Ensure deed -restriction is correctly referenced for both ADUs and JADUs. The current deed -restriction
requirement is located in the ADU section only. The JADU deed restriction requirement (14.16.286 D 3)
refers back to this section. This provision needs to be in both the ADU and JADU sections, or it needs to
reference both ADUs and JADUs.
m-group.us 22561 Main Street, Suite 200, Hayward, CA 94541 510.634.8443
Exhibit 3-6
7
Code Comparison:
San Rafael Code
State Law
(C)(3) - Owner Occupancy and Deed Restriction. The property owner
65852.2(a)(1)(D)(i) The unit is not
shall occupy either the main single-family dwelling or the second
intended for sale separate from the
dwelling unit as their principal residence throughout the life of the
primary residence and may be rented.
second dwelling unit. Prior to obtaining a building permit for a second
65852.2(a)(6) This subdivision
dwelling unit, the property owner shall file with the county recorder a
establishes the maximum standards that
declaration or agreement of restrictions, which has been approved by
local agencies shall use to evaluate a
the city attorney as to its form and content, containing a reference to
proposed accessory dwelling unit on a lot
the deed under which the property was acquired by the owner and
zoned for residential use that contains an
stating that:
existing single-family dwelling. No
a. The second dwelling unit shall not be sold separately;
additional standards, other than those
b. The second dwelling unit shall be restricted to the maximum
provided in this subdivision, shall be
size allowed per the development standards in Section
utilized or imposed, except that a local
14.16.285(C)(6);
agency may require an applicant for a
C. The second dwelling unit shall be considered legal only so
permit issued pursuant to this
long as either the primary residence, or the second dwelling unit, is
subdivision to be an owner -occupant or
occupied by the owner of record of the property; and
that the property be used for rentals of
d. The restrictions shall be binding upon any successor in
terms longer than 30 days.
ownership of the property and lack of compliance may subject the
property owner to enforcement action by the city.
Options:
Option 1. Standalone for ADUs and JADUs. Allow this section to remain for accessory dwelling units, but
copy this provision for the JADU code section as well.
Option 2. Consolidate for ADUs and JADUs. Update wording in the current code section so that it's
applicable to both ADUs and JADUs. Change references in the current code section from "second dwelling
unit" to "accessory dwelling unit or junior accessory dwelling units."
A3. Fire Sprinkler Requirement
Proposed Change:
Add provision about fire sprinklers from State law that is not in the current San Rafael code:
"Accessory dwelling units shall not be required to provide fire sprinklers if they are not required for the
primary residence."
Code Comparison:
San Rafael Code
State Law
(C)(4) - Building and Housing Code Compliance. All new or
65852.2(e) Notwithstanding subdivisions (a) to (d),
expanded second dwelling units must comply with the
inclusive, a local agency shall ministerially approve
Uniform Housing Code and Uniform Building Code in
an application for a building permit to create within
addition to the requirements of this title. Legalization of
a single-family residential zone one accessory
existing unauthorized second dwelling units shall require
dwelling unit per single-family lot if the unit is
compliance with the Uniform Housing Code to ensure unit
contained within the existing space of a single -
habitability, provided that the property owner must show
family residence or accessory structure, has
proof that the unit was in existence prior to June 6, 1983.
independent exterior access from the existing
An inspection must be made by the building and safety
residence, and the side and rear setbacks are
division of the community development department or by an
inspection firm approved by said building and safety division
sufficient for fire safety. Accessory dwelling unit
shall not be re ui ed to Drovide fire sprinklers i
they are not -re uired�or the nrlm�prpsidence.
to determine compliance with applicable codes.
m-group.us 22561 Main Street, Suite 200, Hayward, CA 94541 510.634.8443
Exhibit 3-7
Options:
Option 1. Add to Existing. Add missing provision at the end of the existing San Rafael ADU code section
(C)(4) — Building and Housing Code Compliance.
Option 2. New Section. Add the missing wording as its own new subsection within the San Rafael ADU
code.
Option 3. Leave as is. Leave code as is and address in practice and/or elsewhere as this is a building/fire
requirement.
A4. Lot Size for Conversions.
Proposed Change:
State that lot size requirements do not apply to ADUs contained entirely within existing space. Lot size is
not applicable to conversions and are permitted under 65852.2(e). ADUs within existing spaces are not
subject to height, lot size, lot coverage, unit size, architectural review, landscape or parking
requirements.
Code Comparison:
San Rafael Code
State Law
(C)(7)(a) - Minimum
65852.2(e) Notwithstanding subdivisions (a) to (d), inclusive, a local agency shall
Lot Size. No second
ministerially approve an application for a building permit to create within a single-family
dwelling shall be
residential zone one accessory dwelling unit per single-family lot if the unit is contained
located on a lot less
within the existing space of a single-family residence or accessory structure, has
than five thousand
independent exterior access from the existing residence, and the side and rear setbacks
(5,000) square feet in
are sufficient for fire safety. Accessory dwelling units shall not be required to provide fire
size.
sprinklers if they are not required for the primary residence.
Options:
Option 1. Add lot size exception. Add that minimum lot size does not apply to accessory dwelling units
entirely contained within the existing residence.
Option 2. Rephrase to lot sizes applicable to different ADUs:
• ADU not entirely contained within an existing structure: on lots greater than or equal to 5,000 sf.
• ADU entirely contained within an existing structure: not restricted by lot size.
AS. Setbacks for Conversions
Proposed Change:
Inserting setback exceptions for conversion of structures in single-family lots. Consider whether they
should apply to only single-family lots in single-family zones.
ADUs created within an existing structure on a single-family lot in a single family residential zone are not
required to comply with setbacks in the zoning district but are required to have side and rear setbacks
sufficient for fire safety. State law only requires this for single-family lots in single-family residential
zones. Consider whether this should apply to a single-family lot within any zoning district that allows
ADUs.
m-group.us 22561 Main Street, Suite 200, Hayward, CA 94541 510.634.8443
Exhibit 3-8
D
Code Comparison:
San Rafael Code
State Law
(C)(7)(c) - Setbacks. Second dwelling units added or
65852.2(e) Notwithstanding subdivisions (a) to (d),
attached to the structure containing the principal
inclusive, a local agency shall ministerially approve an
residence shall be subject to the setback
application for a building permit to create within a single -
requirements otherwise applicable to the principal
family residential zone one accessory dwelling unit per
residential structure. Second dwelling units
single-family lot if the unit is contained within the existing
constructed as a separate building shall be subject
space of a single-family residence or accessory structure,
to the setback requirements otherwise applicable to
has independent exterior access from the existing
accessory buildings except that such units located
residence, and the side and rear setbacks are sufficient for
within side or rear setback areas shall require
fire safety. Accessory dwelling units shall not be required
approval of a use permit by the planning
to provide fire sprinklers if they are not required for the
commission.
primary residence.
Uptions:
Option 1. Add Setback Exceptions — Basic Requirements. Insert the State law provisions into the
existing code subsection with minimal change. Setback exceptions only apply to single-family lots in
single-family districts.
"Conversions of existing space into an ADU within a single-family residence or accessory
structure of a single-family lot within a single-family district shall not be subject to setback
requirements of the lot, however side and rear setbacks shall be sufficient for fire safety."
Option 2. Add Setback Exceptions — Expanded for All Single Family Lots. Insert the State law
provisions but expand setback exceptions to apply to all single family lots that allow ADUs rather than
only single-family lots within single-family zones. This provision would apply to all single-family lots rather
than only single-family lots in single-family zones:
"Conversions of existing space into an ADU within a single-family residence or accessory
structure of a single-family lot shall not be subject to setback requirements of the lot, however
side and rear setbacks shall be sufficient for fire safety."
A6. Setbacks for ADUs over Garages
Proposed Change:
Decide whether setbacks should apply to ADUs over garages. A local jurisdiction may impose setbacks of
up to 5 feet for ADUs constructed above garages.
San Rafael Code
State Law
(C)(7)(c) - Setbacks. Second dwelling units added or attached to the
65852.2 (a)(1)(D)(vii) No setback shall
structure containing the principal residence shall be subject to the
be required for an existing garage that is
setback requirements otherwise applicable to the principal residential
converted to an accessory dwelling unit,
structure. Second dwelling units constructed as a separate building
and a setback of no more than five feet
shall be subject to the setback requirements otherwise applicable to
from the side and rear lot lines shall be
accessory buildings except that such units located within side or rear
required for an accessory dwelling unit
setback areas shall require approval of a use permit by the planning
that is constructed above a garage.
commission.
Options:
Option 1. No setbacks. Apply no setbacks for ADUs over garages.
Option 2. Setback up to 5 Feet. Apply setbacks up to 5 feet for ADUs over garages.
m-group.us 22561 Main Street, Suite 200, Hayward, CA 94541 510.634.8443
Exhibit 3-9
10
A7. Parking — Remove Discretionary Provision
Proposed Change:
Remove design review permit, which requires discretionary approval. Consider whether this provision can
be met through administrative approval from public works and planning and remove the design review
permit to remain in line with ministerial approvals intended for ADUs under State law.
San Rafael Code I
State Law
C(8)(c) - Off-street parking for the second dwelling
65852.2 (a)(3) When a local agency receives its first
unit that requires a new driveway curb cut, either for
application on or after July 1, 2003, for a permit
establishing an additional driveway or for increasing
pursuant to this subdivision, the juniication shall be
the width of the existing curb cut, may be proposed
Considered ministerially without discretionary review.or
hearing, notwithstanding Section 65901 or 65906 or any
subject to an affirmative recommendation by the
public works department and the approval of_an.
local ordinance regulating the issuance of variances or
environmental and design review permit by the zoning
special use permits, within 120 days after receiving the
application. A local agency may charge a fee to
d ministrator: The purpose of this permit review is to
ensure that the alternative parking design is
reimburse it for costs that it incurs as a result of
appropriate given the site conditions, is compatible
amendments to this paragraph enacted during the
with the character of the surrounding residential
2001-02 Regular Session of the Legislature, including
neighborhood, and would not result in a safety hazard
the costs of adopting or amending any ordinance that
to vehicles or pedestrians.provides
for the creation of an accessory dwelling unit.
Options:
Option 1. Remove design review permit reference.
Option 2. Delete all of section 14.16.285 C(8)(c) if the public works department would address this
through the typical course of project review.
AS. Parking — Parking Waivers,
Proposed Change:
Insert new parking exceptions. Parking exceptions from State law are required for ADU ordinances.
San Rafael Code
State Law
None.
65852.2(d) Notwithstanding any other law, a local agency, whether or not it has adopted
an ordinance governing accessory dwelling units in accordance with subdivision (a), shall
not impose parking standards for an accessory dwelling unit in any of the following
instances:
(1) The accessory dwelling unit is located within one-half mile of public transit.
(2) The accessory dwelling unit is located within an architecturally and historically
significant historic district.
(3) The accessory dwelling unit is part of the existing primary residence or an existing
accessory structure.
(4) When on -street parking permits are required but not offered to the occupant of the
accessory dwelling unit.
(5) When there is a car share vehicle located within one block of the accessory dwelling
unit.
Options:
Option 1. Add State Provision. Insert provision as written in State law.
Option 2. Make modifications prior to adding to the San Rafael ADU ordinance.
m-group.us 22561 Main Street, Suite 200, Hayward, CA 94541 510.634.8443
Exhibit 3-10
II
Option 2a. Create a more specific definition of "public transit". At a minimal, it has to include
bus stops. Some discretion can be made on the bus stops, but the criteria should not be overly
limiting, such as only allowing parking exceptions for bus stops with 15 minute intervals.
Option 3. Remove parking requirement for all ADUs.
A9. Parking — Replacement Parking
Proposed Change:
Insert replacement parking allowance. Parking replacement provisions are provided under the State law.
San Rafael Code
State Law
None.
65852.2(a)(1)(D)(xi) When a garage, carport, or covered parking structure is demolished
entail exterior expansion or modification of the principal residential structure or
in conjunction with the construction of an accessory dwelling unit, and the local agency
accessory building, or construction of a new building, shall be subject to the
requires that those off-street parking spaces be replaced, the replacement spaces may be
following design criteria:
located in any configuration on the same lot as the accessory dwelling unit, including, but
a. The second dwelling unit construction shall incorporate the same or
not limited to, as covered spaces, uncovered spaces, or tandem spaces, or by the use of
similar exterior materials, including window style, as the structure containing the
mechanical automobile parking lifts. This clause shall not apply to a unit that is described
principal residence;
in subdivision (d).
Options:
Option 1. Insert provision as written in State law.
Option 2. Make modifications prior to adding to the San Rafael ADU code.
Option 3. Remove requirement for replacement parking when off-street parking spaces are removed in
conjunction with ADU construction.
A10. Architectural Compatibility — Ministerial
Proposed Change:
Ensure it is clear that architectural review can be done ministerially. State law allows for architectural
review, however approval of ADU permits must be ministerial.
San Rafael Code
State Law
(C)(9)(a-d) - Architectural Compatibility. Construction of second dwelling units that
65852.2 (a)(1)(13)(i) Impose
entail exterior expansion or modification of the principal residential structure or
standards on accessory
accessory building, or construction of a new building, shall be subject to the
dwelling units that include,
following design criteria:
but are not limited to,
a. The second dwelling unit construction shall incorporate the same or
parking, height, setback, lot
similar exterior materials, including window style, as the structure containing the
coverage, landscape,
principal residence;
architectural review,
b. The second dwelling unit construction shall incorporate the same or
maximum size of a unit, and
similar exterior colors and architectural detailing as the structure containing the
standards that prevent
principal residence;
adverse impacts on any real
C. The second dwelling unit construction shall incorporate the same or
property that is listed in the
similar roof pitch as the structure containing the principal residence;
California Register of
d. Separate entrances to the principal residence and the second dwelling
Historic Places.
unit are required and may not be located on the same exterior building elevation
which is most parallel to the front property line;
m-group.us 22561 Main Street, Suite 200, Hayward, CA 94541 510.634.8443
Exhibit 3-11
12
Options:
Option 1. Clarify Ministerial Process. Architectural compatibility okay if part of the ministerial process,
but ensure that language and criteria are clear so that evaluation can be done ministerially and does not
require discretionary action. Insert language about ministerial review.
Option 2. Leave As Is, Mention Ministerial Elsewhere. Ensure ministerial permit approval is mentioned in
a separate section.
All. Current Discretionary Approval — Change to Ministerial
Proposed Change:
Ensure ministerial approval of ADU permits by removing discretionary approval.
San Rafael Code
State Law
(C)(9).(e) - The construction or alteration of second dwelling units in the
65852.2 (a) (4) An existing
following locations shall be subject to the issuance of an environmental and
ordinance governing the creation
design review permit consistent with the requirements of Sections 14.25.030
of an accessory dwelling unit by a
and 14.25.040(6) of this title, and the review criteria contained in Section
local agency or an accessory
14.25.050(F)(6) of this title:
dwelling ordinance adopted by a
1. Upper story additions to the structure containing the principal
local agency subsequent to the
residence which exceed five hundred (500) square feet,
effective date of the act adding
2. Second dwelling units which are located above the ground floor in a
this paragraph shall provide a
separate or accessory structure, or
roval process that include
3. Second dwelling units which are located within a separate or
nA ministerial provision__=. for the
accessory structure within the side or rear setbacks (required for the
approval of accessory dwelling
principal structure);
units and shall not include any
discretionary processes,
C9(f). The construction or alteration of second dwelling units on residential
provisions, or requirements for
lots with slopes over twenty-five percent (25%) which entail exterior
those units, except as otherwise
modifications to existing structures or construction of a new building shall be
provided in this subdivision.
subject to the issuance of an environmental and design reyiew germi
consistent with the requirements of Chapters 14.12 and 14.25 of this title.
Options:
Option 1. Delete Subsection. Remove parts C9(e) and C9(f) completely, as it relates to discretionary
review.
Al2. Passageways
Proposed Change:
Add passageway requirement from State law. The passageway exception from State law is required for
ADU ordinances.
San Rafael Code
State Law
None.
65852.2(a)(1)(D)(vi) No passageway shall be required in conjunction with the construction
of an accessory dwelling unit.
Options
Option 1. Add Requirement as Its Own Subsection. Create a new subsection within the ADU ordinance
for this specific requirement.
m-group.us 22561 Main Street, Suite 200, Hayward, CA 94541 510.634.8443
Exhibit 3-12
13
Option 2. Integrate Language in Existing Subsections. Address the requirement by ensuring the
language is addressed in existing parts of the ADU code by inserting it into these sections, possibly C9.
Architectural Compatibility.
A13. Fees and Utility Connections
Proposed Change:
Implement fee and utility connection requirements from State law. Fee and utility connections
requirements from State law need to be put into practice.
San Rafael Code
State Law
None.
65852.2(f)(2) Accessory dwelling units shall not be considered new residential uses for the
purposes of calculating local agency connection fees or capacity charges for utilities,
including water and sewer service.
(A) For an accessory dwelling unit described in subdivision (e), a local agency shall not
require the applicant to install a new or separate utility connection directly between the
accessory dwelling unit and the utility or impose a related connection fee or capacity
charge.
(B) For an accessory dwelling unit that is not described in subdivision (e), a local agency
may require a new or separate utility connection directly between the accessory dwelling
unit and the utility. Consistent with Section 66013, the connection may be subject to a
connection fee or capacity charge that shall be proportionate to the burden of the proposed
accessory dwelling unit, based upon either its size or the number of its plumbing fixtures,
upon the water or sewer system. This fee or charge shall not exceed the reasonable cost of
providing this service.
Options:
Option 1. New Subsection using State Law. Add the language from State law mostly unchanged.
Option 2. New Subsection Revised Language, Fees Addressed Outside of the ADU Code. Create a new
subsection addressing utility connection requirements under State law but revising the language, in
particular, removing language on fees and implementing them in practice.
Example: "Accessory dwelling units contained entirely within an existing structure are not required to
install new or separate utility connections." And fees for detached ADUs are proportionate to impact but
are not specifically mentioned in the'code.
A14. Time Limit for Ministerial Review
Proposed Change:
Add the requirement from State law establishing that ADUs shall be permitted ministerially within 120
days after receiving the application.
San Rafael Code
State Law
None.
65852.2(a)(3) When a local agency receives its first application on or after July 1, 2003, for
a permit pursuant to this subdivision, the application shall be considered ministerially
without discretionary review or a hearing, notwithstanding Section 65901 or 65906 or any
local ordinance regulating the issuance of variances or special use permits, within 120 days
after receiving the application. A local agency may charge a fee to reimburse it for costs
that it incurs as a result of amendments to this paragraph enacted during the 2001-02
Regular Session of the Legislature, including the costs of adopting or amending any
ordinance that provides for the creation of an accessory dwelling unit.
m-group.us 22561 Main Street, Suite 200, Hayward, CA 94541 510.634.8443
Exhibit 3-13
14
Options:
Option 1. Add a new subsection within the ADU ordinance establishing that ADUs shall be permitted
ministerially within 120 after receiving the application.
Option 2. Do not add, but implement in practice.
A15. ""Second Unit" to "ADU"
Proposed Change:
Change "second units" to "accessory dwelling units" throughout the municipal code to ensure consistency
in terms used.
Options:
• Update Title 9 — Heath and Sanitation. Section 9.04.030 (Definitions)
• Update Title 14 — Zoning. Section 14.03.030 (Definitions), 14.16.285 (Second Dwelling Units),
14.16.286 (Junior Second Units).
m-group.us 22561 Main Street, Suite 200, Hayward, CA 94541 510.634.8443
Exhibit 3-14
1.5
JADU ORDINANCE UPDATES
31. Density
Proposed Change:
Rephrase to bring reference to density closer to the language in State law.
Code Comparison:
San Rafael Code
State Law
(D)(1) - Density. A maximum of one junior second unit shall
65852.22(a)(1) Limit the number of junior
be permitted per residential lot containing a single-family
accessory dwelling units to one per residential lot
dwelling. Junior second units are not required to meet the
zoned for single-family residences with a single -
density requirements of the general plan or zoning
family residence already built on the lot.
ordinance.
of the structure or the newly created junior
Options:
Option 1. Rephrase. Consider rephrasing the second sentence ("Junior second units are not...') to be
more similar to State language regarding conversion of existing space to ADUs per SB1069 and A132299.
Proposed: A JADU that conforms to this section shall be deemed an accessory use and shall not be
considered to exceed the allowable density for the lot upon which it is located. The junior accessory
dwelling unit that conforms to this section shall be deemed a residential use consistent with the existing
general plan and zoning designation for the lot.
Option 2. Leave as is. San Rafael Code can remain as is if it is determined that the San Rafael code and
State law are not interpreted to have potentially different meanings.
52. Owner -Occupancy Exception
Proposed Change:
Add an owner -occupant exception from State law missing from the JADU ordinance.
Code Comparison:
San Rafael Code
State Law
(D)(3) - Owner occupancy and deed restriction. The property
65852.22(a)(2) Require owner -occupancy in the
owner shall occupy either the main single-family dwelling or
single-family residence in which the junior
the junior second unit. Prior to obtaining a building permit for
accessory dwelling unit will be permitted. The
the junior second unit, the recordation of a declaration or
owner may reside in either the remaining portion
agreement of restrictions shall be prepared and recorded in
of the structure or the newly created junior
the official records of the County of Marin. The deed
restriction provisions of Section 14.16.285C.3 (second
accessory dwelling unit. Owner-accupancy shai.1
not be required if, the owner is anothei-
dwelling units) of this title shall apply to junior second units.
governmental agency, land trust or housing
7r anization.
Options:
Option 1. Add missing requirements
"Owner -occupancy shall not be required if the owner is another governmental agency, land trust, or
housing organization."
Option 2. Leave as is. If State law provisions are not added to the ADU ordinance, ensure that these
provisions are addressed elsewhere or implemented in practice.
m-group.us 22561 Main Street, Suite 200, Hayward, CA 94541 510.634.8443
Exhibit 3-15
16
33. Fire and Life Protection for JADUs
Proposed Change:
Implement fire and life protection requirements from State law.
Code Comparison:
San Rafael Code
State Law
(D)(7) - Building and fire code requirements. The junior
65852.22(d) For the purposes of any fire or life
second unit must meet the following building and fire code
protection ordinance or regulation, a junior
requirements:
accessory dwelling unit shall not be considered a
a. No fire wall separation or noise attenuation measures are
separate or new dwelling unit. This section shall
required between the main dwelling and the junior second
not be construed to prohibit a city, county, city
unit.
and county, or other local public entity from
b. No fire sprinklers shall be required for the junior second
adopting an ordinance or regulation relating to
unit, unless the associated improvements meet the threshold
fire and life protection requirements within a
for a "substantial remodel' as defined by Chapter 4.08 (Fire
single-family residence that contains a junior
Code) of the San Rafael Municipal Code.
accessory dwelling unit so long as the ordinance
c. A smoke alarm shall be required in the junior second unit
or regulation applies uniformly to all single-family
and shall be connected to the smoke alarms in the main
residences within the zone regardless of whether
residence.
the single-family residence includes a junior
d. The junior second unit shall be equipped with a carbon
accessory dwelling unit or not.
monoxide detector.
Options:
Option 1. Add fire and life protection definitions.
1. Consider adding language from State law to the ADU ordinance that JADUs are not considered
separate or new dwelling units for the purposes of fire and life protection ordinances and
regulations.
2. Consider adding language from State law to the ADU ordinance that fire and life protection
requirements can be applied in a single family residence with a JADU so long as they also apply
to single-family residences that do not have JADUs.
Option 2. Leave as is. If State law provisions are not added to the ADU ordinance, ensure that these
provisions are addressed elsewhere or implemented in practice.
34. Utility Service
Proposed Change:
Implement utility service requirements from State law.
Code. Comparison:
San Rafael Code
State Law
(D)(8) - Utility service. A separate water connection or
65852.22(e) For the purposes of providing service for
meter, and a separate sewer service connection are not
water, sewer, or power, including a connection fee, a
required for a junior second unit. Water and sewer
junior accessory dwelling unit shall not be considered a
service for the junior second unit is shared with the
separate or new dwelling unit.
main single-family dwelling unit.
Options:
Option 1. Expand definitions to be closer to State Law
1. Include "power" as a service, which is mentioned in the State law.
m-group.us 22561 Main Street, Suite 200, Hayward, CA 94541 510.634.8443
Exhibit 3-16
17
2. Consider mentioning that ordinances and regulations relating to water, sewer, and power service
or connection fees can be applied in a single family residence with a JADU so long as they also
apply to single-family residences that do not have JADUs, per 65852.22(f)
Option 2. Leave as is. If State law provisions are not added to the ADU ordinance, ensure that these
provisions are addressed elsewhere or implemented in practice.
35. Parking for JADUs
Proposed Change:
Update language for parking to bring it closer to State law.
San Rafael Code
State Law
(D)(10) - Off-street parking. No
65852.22(b) (1) An ordinance shall not require additional parking as a condition
additional off-street parking is
to grant a permit.
required beyond that required
for the main single-family
65852.22(f) This section shall not be construed to prohibit a local agency from
dwelling. The main single-family
adopting an ordinance or regulation, related to parking or a service or a
dwelling must meet the current
connection fee for water, sewer, or power, that applies to a single-family
off-street parking standard in
residence that contains a junior accessory dwelling unit, so long as that
effect at the time the junior
ordinance or regulation applies uniformly to all single-family residences
second unit is approved.
regardless of whether the single-family residence includes a junior accessory
dwelling unit.
Options:
Option 1. Rephrase based on HCD sample ordinance language.
"No additional parking is required beyond that required when the existing primary dwelling was
constructed."
Option 2. Leave as is.
m-group.us 22561 Main Street, Suite 200, Hayward, CA 94541 510.634.8443
Exhibit 3-17
California Department of Housing and Community Development
Where Foundations Begin
Accessory Dwelling Unit
Memorandum
December 2016
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Table of Contents
Understanding ADUs and Their Importance...................................................................................... 1
Summary of Recent Changes to Accessory Dwelling Unit Laws ..................................................... 3
Frequently Asked Questions: Accessory Dwelling Units................................................................. 7
Should an Ordinance Encourage the Development of ADUs?.......................................................... 7
Are Existing Ordinances Null and Void?............................................................................................ 7
Are Local Governments Required to Adopt an Ordinance?.............................................................. 8
Can a Local Government Preclude ADUs?...................................................................................... 8
Can a Local Government Apply Development Standards and Designate Areas? ............................. 8
Can a Local Government Adopt Less Restrictive Requirements?.................................................... 9
Can Local Governments Establish Minimum and Maximum Unit Sizes? .......................................... 9
Can ADUs Exceed General Plan and Zoning Densities?............................................................... 10
HowAre Fees Charged to ADUs?.................................................................................................. 11
What Utility Fee Requirements Apply to ADUs...................................................................11
What Utility Fee Requirements Apply to Non -City and County Service Districts? ........................... 11
Do Utility Fee Requirements Apply to ADUs within Existing Space? .............................................. 11
Does "Public Transit' Include within One-half Mile of a Bus Stop and Train Station? ..................... 11
Can Parking Be Required Where a Car Share is Available?.......................................................... 12
Is Off Street Parking Permitted in Setback Areas or through Tandem Parking? ............................. 12
IsCovered Parking Required?....................................................................................................... 12
Is Replacement Parking Required When the Parking Area for the Primary Structure is Used for an
ADU?............................................................................................................................................. 12
Are Setbacks Required When an Existing Garage is Converted to an ADU?................................. 12
Are ADUs Permitted in Existing Residence and Accessory Space? ............................................... 13
AreOwner Occupants Required?.................................................................................................. 13
Are Fire Sprinklers Required for ADUs?......................................................................................... 13
Is Manufactured Housing Permitted as an ADU?........................................................................... 14
Can an Efficiency Unit Be Smaller than 220 Square Feet?............................................................. 14
Does ADU Law Apply to Charter Cities and Counties?.................................................................. 14
Do ADUs Count toward the Regional Housing Need Allocation .............................................. 14
Must Ordinances Be Submitted to the Department of Housing and Community Development? ..... 15
Exhibit 5-2
Frequently Asked Questions: Junior Accessory Dwelling Units ................................................... 16
Is There a Difference between ADU and JADU?............................................................................ 16
Why Adopt a JADU Ordinance?............................................_......... ... 17
....................................
Can JADUs Count towards The RHNA?........................................................................................ 17
Can the JADU Be Sold Independent of the Primary Dwelling?....................................................... 17
Are JADUs Subject to Connection and Capacity Fees?................................................................. 17
Are There Requirements for Fire Separation and Fire Sprinklers? ................................................. 18
Resources.......................................................................................................................................... 19
Attachment 1: Statutory Changes (Strikeout/Underline)................................................................. 19
A6tachment 2: SatflplC ALJU Ord111a11(;e........... Lo
...............................................................................
Attachment 3: Sample JADU Ordinance........................................................................................ 29
Attachment 4: State Standards Checklist....................................................................................... 32
Attachment5: Bibliography............................................................................................................ 33
Exhibit 5-3
Understanding Accessory Dwelling Units
and Their Importance
California's housing production is not keeping pace with
demand. In the last decade less than half of the needed
housing was built. This lack of housing is impacting
affordability with average housing costs in California
exceeding the rest of the nation. As affordability
becomes more problematic, people drive longer distances
between a home that is affordable and where they work,
or double up to share space, both of which reduces
quality of life and produces negative environmental
impacts.
Beyond traditional market -rate construction and
government subsidized production and preservation there
Courtesy of Karen Chapple, UC Berkeley are alternative housing models and emerging trends that can
contribute to addressing home supply and affordability in California.
One such example gaining popularity are Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) (also referred to as second units, in-
law units, or granny flats).
What is an ADU
An ARU is a secondary dwelling unit with complete independent living facilities for one or more persons
and generally takes three forms:
Detached: The unit is separated from the primary structure
• Attached. The unit is attached to the primary structure
• Repurposed Existing Space: Space (e.g., master bedroom) within the primary residence is
converted into an independent living unit
• Junior Accessory Dwelling Units: Similar to repurposed space with various streamlining measures
ADUs offer benefits that address common development barriers such as affordability and environmental quality.
ADUs are an affordable type of home to construct in California because they do not require paying for land, major
new infrastructure, structured parking, or elevators. ADUs are built with cost-effective one- or two-story wood frame
construction, which is significantly less costly than homes in new multifamily infill buildings. ADUs can provide as
much living space as the new apartments and condominiums being built in new infill buildings and serve very well
for couples, small families, friends, young people, and seniors.
ADUs are a different form of housing that can help California meet its diverse housing needs. Young professionals
and students desire to live in areas close to jobs, amenities, and schools. The problem with high -opportunity areas
is that space is limited. There is a shortage of affordable units and the units that are available can be out of reach
for many people. To address the needs of individuals or small families seeking living quarters in high opportunity
areas, homeowners can construct an ADU on their lot or convert an underutilized part of their home like a garage
Exhibit 5-4
into a junior ADU. This flexibility benefits not just people renting the space, but the homeowner as well, who can
receive an extra monthly rent income.
ADUs give homeowners the flexibility to share independent living areas with family members and others, allowing
seniors to age in place as they require more care and helping extended families to be near one another while
maintaining privacy.
Relaxed regulations and the cost to build an ADU make it a very feasible affordable housing option. A UC Berkeley
study noted that one unit of affordable housing in the Bay Area costs about $500,000 to develop whereas an ADU
can range anywhere up to $200,000 on the expensive end in high housing cost areas.
ADUs are a critical form of infill -development that can be affordable and offer important housing choices within
existing neighborhoods. ADUs are a powerful type of housing unit because they allow for different uses, and serve
different populations ranging from students and young professionals to young families; people wlth rJisahilitiPs and
senior citizens. By design, ADUs are more affordable and can provide additional income to homeowners. Local
governments can encourage the development of ADUs and improve access to jobs, education and services for
many Californians.
Exhibit 5-5
Summary of Recent changes to ADU Laves
Courtesy of Karen Chapple, UC Berkeley
The California legislature found and declared that,
among other things, allowing accessory dwelling units
(ADUs) in single family and multifamily zones
provides additional rental housing and are an
essential component in addressing housing needs in
California. Over the years, ADU law has been revised
to improve its effectiveness, such as recent changes
in 2003 to require ministerial approval. In 2017,
changes to ADU laws will further reduce barriers,
better streamline approval and expand capacity to
accommodate the development of ADUs.
ADUs are a unique opportunity to address a variety of
housing needs and provide affordable housing
options for family members, friends, students, the
elderly, in-home health care providers, the disabled,
and others. Further, ADUs offer an opportunity to maximize and
integrate housing choices within existing neighborhoods.
Within this context, the Department has prepared this guidance to assist local governments in encouraging the
development of ADUs. Please see Attachment 1 for the complete statutory changes. The following is a brief
summary of the changes for each bill.
SB 1 069 (Wieckowski)
S.B. 1069 (Chapter 720, Statutes of 2016) made several changes to address barriers to the development of ADUs
and expanded capacity for their development. The following is a brief summary of provisions that go into effect
January 1, 2017.
Parking
SB 1069 reduces parking requirements to one space per bedroom or unit. The legislation authorizes off street
parking to be tandem or in setback areas unless specific findings such as fire and life safety conditions are made.
SB 1069 also prohibits parking requirements if the ADU meets any of the following:
• Is within a half mile from public transit.
• Is within an architecturally and historically significant historic district.
• Is part of an existing primary residence or an existing accessory structure.
• Is in an area where on -street parking permits are required, but not offered to the occupant of the ADU.
• Is located within one block of a car share area.
3
Exhibit 5-6
Fees
SB 1069 provides that ADUs shall not be considered new residential uses for the purpose of calculating utility
connection fees or capacity charges, including water and sewer service. The bill prohibits a local agency from
requiring an ADU applicant to install a new or separate utility connection or impose a related connection fee or
capacity charge for ADUs that are contained within an existing residence or accessory structure. For attached and
detached ADUs, this fee or charge must be proportionate to the burden of the unit on the water or sewer system
and may not exceed the reasonable cost of providing the service.
Fire Requirements
SB 1069 provides that fire sprinklers shall not be required in an accessory unit if they are not required in the
primary residence.
ADUs within Existing Space
Local governments must ministerially approve an application to create within a single family residential zone one
ADU per single family lot if the unit is:
• contained within an existing residence or accessory structure.
• has independent exterior access from the existing residence.
• has side and rear setbacks that are sufficient for fire safety.
These provisions apply within all single family residential zones and ADUs within existing space must be allowed in
all of these zones. No additional parking or other development standards can be applied except for building code
requirements.
No Total Prohibition
SB 1069 prohibits a local government from adopting an ordinance that precludes ADUs.
AB 2299 (Bloom)
Generally, AB 2299 (Chapter 735, Statutes of 2016) requires a local government (beginning January 1, 2017) to
ministerially approve ADUs if the unit complies with certain parking requirements, the maximum allowable size of
an attached ADU, and setback requirements, as follows:
• The unit is not intended for sale separate from the primary residence and may be rented.
• The lot is zoned for single-family or multifamily use and contains an existing, single-family dwelling.
• The unit is either attached to an existing dwelling or located within the living area of the existing dwelling or
detached and on the same lot.
• The increased floor area of the unit does not exceed 50% of the existing living area, with a maximum
increase in floor area of 1,200 square feet.
• The total area of floorspace for a detached accessory dwelling unit does not exceed 1,200 square feet.
• No passageway can be required.
• No setback can be required from an existing garage that is converted to an ADU.
4
Exhibit 5-7
• Compliance with local building code requirements.
• Approval by the local health officer where private sewage disposal system is being used.
Impact on Existing Accessory Dwelling Unit Ordinances
AB 2299 provides that any existing ADU ordinance that does not meet the bill's requirements is null and void upon
the date the bill becomes effective. In such cases, a jurisdiction must approve accessory dwelling units based on
Government Code Section 65852.2 until the jurisdiction adopts a compliant ordinance.
AB 2406 (Thurmond)
AB 2406 (Chapter 755, Statutes of 2016) creates more flexibility for housing options by authorizing local
governments to permit junior accessory dwelling units (JADU) through an ordinance. The bill defines JADUs to be
a unit that cannot exceed 500 square feet and must be completely contained within the space of an existing
residential structure. In addition, the bill requires specified components for a local JADU ordinance. Adoption of a
JADU ordinance is optional.
Required Components
The ordinance authorized by AB 2406 must include the following requirements:
• Limit to one JADU per residential lot zoned for single-family residences with a single-family residence already
built on the lot.
• The single-family residence in which the JADU is created or JADU must be occupied by the owner of the
residence.
• The owner must record a deed restriction stating that the JADU cannot be sold separately from the single-
family residence and restricting the JADU to the size limitations and other requirements of the JADU
ordinance.
• The JADU must be located entirely within the existing structure of the single-family residence and JADU have
its own separate entrance.
• The JADU must include an efficiency kitchen which includes a sink, cooking appliance, counter surface, and
storage cabinets that meet minimum building code standards. No gas or 220V circuits are allowed.
• The JADU may share a bath with the primary residence or have its own bath.
Prohibited Components
This bill prohibits a local JADU ordinance from requiring:
• Additional parking as a condition to grant a permit.
Applying additional water, sewer and power connection fees. No connections are needed as these utilities
have already been accounted for in the original permit for the home.
5
Exhibit 5-8
Fire Safety Requirements
AB 2406 clarifies that a JADU is to be considered part of the single-family residence for the purposes of fire and
life protections ordinances and regulations, such as sprinklers and smoke alarms. The bill also requires life and
protection ordinances that affect single-family residences to be applied uniformly to all single-family residences,
regardless of the presence of a JADU.
JADUs and the RHNA
As part of the housing element portion of their general plan, local governments are required to identify sites with
appropriate zoning that will accommodate projected housing needs in their regional housing need allocation
(RHNA) and report on their progress pursuant to Government Code Section 65400. To credit a JADU toward the
RHNA, HCD and the Department of Finance (DOF) utilize the census definition of a housing unit which is fairly
flexible. Local government count units as part of reporting to DOF. JADUs meet these definitions and this biii
would allow cities and counties to earn credit toward meeting their RHNA allocations by permitting residents to
create less costly accessory units. See additional discussion under JADU frequently asked questions.
6
Exhibit 5-9
Frequently Asked Questions:
Accessory Dwelling Units
Should pn Ordinance Encourage the development of ADl1-z?
Yes, ADU law and recent changes intend to address barriers, streamline approval and expand potential capacity
for ADUs recognizing their unique importance in addressing California's housing needs. The preparation, adoption,
amendment and implementation of local ADU ordinances must be carried out consistent with Government Code
Section 65852.150:
(a) The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:
(1) Accessory dwelling units are a valuable form of housing in California.
(2) Accessory dwelling units provide housing for family members, students, the elderly, In-home health care
providers, the disabled, and others, at below market prices within existing neighborhoods.
(3) Homeowners who create accessory dwelling units benefit from added income, and an increased sense of
security.
(4) Allowing accessory dwelling units in single-family or multifamily residential zones provides additional rental
housing stock in California.
(5) California faces a severe housing crisis.
(6) The state is falling far short of meeting current and future housing demand with serious consequences for
the state's economy, our ability to build green infill consistent with state greenhouse gas reduction goals, and
the well-being of our citizens, particularly lower and middle-income earners.
(7) Accessory dwelling units offer lower cost housing to meet the needs of existing and future residents within
existing neighborhoods, while respecting architectural character.
(8) Accessory dwelling units are, therefore, an essential component of California's housing supply.
(b) It is the intent of the Legislature that an accessory dwelling unit ordinance adopted by a local agency has
the effect of providing for the creation of accessory dwelling units and that provisions in this ordinance relating
to matters including unit size, parking, fees, and other requirements, are not so arbitrary, excessive, or
burdensome so as to unreasonably restrict the ability of homeowners to create accessory dwelling units in
zones in which they are authorized by local ordinance.
Exhibit 5-10
Are Existing Ordinances Null and Void"
Yes, any local ordinance adopted prior to January 1, 2017
that is not in compliance with the changes to ADU law will be
null and void. Until an ordinance is adopted, local
governments must apply "state standards" (See Attachment
4 for State Standards checklist). In the absence of a local
ordinance complying with ADU law, local review must be
limited to "state standards" and cannot include additional
requirements such as those in an existing ordinance.
Are Local Governments Required to Adopt
an Ordinance?
No, a local government is not required to adopt an ordinance. ADUs built within a jurisdiction that lacks a local
ordinance must comply with state standards (See Attachment 4). Adopting an ordinance can occur through
different forms such as a new ordinance, amendment to an existing ordinance, separate section or special
regulations within the zoning code or integrated into the zoning code by district. However, the ordinance should be
established legislatively through a public process and meeting and not through internal administrative actions such
as memos or zoning interpretations.
Can a Local Government Preclude ADUs?
No local government cannot preclude ADUs.
Can a Local Government Apply Development Standards and Designate Areas?
Yes, local governments may apply development standards and may designate where ADUs are permitted (GC
Sections 65852.2(a)(1)(A) and (13)). However, ADUs within existing structures must be allowed in all single family
residential zones.
For ADUs that require an addition or a new accessory structure, development standards such as parking, height,
lot coverage, lot size and maximum unit size can be established with certain limitations. ADUs can be avoided or
allowed through an ancillary and separate discretionary process in areas with health and safety risks such as high
fire hazard areas. However, standards and allowable areas must not be designed or applied in a manner that
burdens the development of ADUs and should maximize the potential for ADU development. Designating areas
where ADUs are allowed should be approached primarily on health and safety issues including water, sewer, traffic
flow and public safety. Utilizing approaches such as restrictive overlays, limiting ADUs to larger lot sizes,
burdensome lot coverage and setbacks and particularly concentration or distance requirements (e.g., no less than
500 feet between ADUs) may unreasonably restrict the ability of the homeowners to create ADUs, contrary to the
intent of the Legislature.
Exhibit 5-11
Requiring large minimum lot sizes and not allowing smaller lot sizes for ADUs can severely restrict their
potential development. For example, large minimum lot sizes for ADUs may constrict capacity throughout
most of the community. Minimum lot sizes cannot be applied to ADUs within existing structures and could
be considered relative to health and safety concerns such as areas on septic systems. While larger lot
sizes might be targeted for various reasons such as ease of compatibility, many tools are available (e.g.,
maximum unit size, maximum lot coverage, minimum setbacks, architectural and landscape requirements)
that allows ADUs to fit well within the built environment.
Can a Local Government Adopt Less Restrictive RequiremerasY
Yes, ADU law is a minimum requirement and its purpose is to encourage the development of ADUs. Local
governments can take a variety of actions beyond the statute that promote ADUs such as reductions in fees, less
restrictive parking or unit sizes or amending general plan policies.
Santa Cruz has confronted a shortage of housing for many years, considering its growth in population from
incoming students at UC Santa Cruz and its proximity to Silicon Valley. The city promoted the development
of ADUs as critical infill -housing opportunity through various strategies such as creating a manual to
promote ADUs. The manual showcases prototypes of ADUs and outlines city zoning laws and
requirements to make it more convenient for homeowners to get information. The City found that
homeowners will take time to develop an ADL! only if information is easy to find, the process is simple, and
there is sufficient guidance on what options they have in regards to design and planning.
The city set the minimum lot size requirement at 4,500 sq. ft. to develop an ADU in order to encourage
more homes to build an ADU. This allowed for a majority of single-family homes in Santa Cruz to develop
an ADU. For more information, see http;Ilwww.citvofsantacruz.com/departments/planning-and-communitY-
developmentlorogramslaccessory-dwe_Iling-unit-development-program.
('an Local Governments EStnNiO h4inirn l n an!l �Inyimi lm I Init 4iZp-q`?
Yes, a local government may establish minimum and maximum unit sizes (GC Section 65852.2(c). However, like
all development standards (e.g., height, lot coverage, lot size), unit sizes should not burden the development of
ADUs. For example, setting a minimum unit size that substantially increases costs or a maximum unit size that
unreasonably restricts opportunities would be inconsistent with the intent of the statute. Typical maximum unit
sizes range from 800 square feet to 1,200 square feet. Minimum unit size must at least allow for an efficiency unit
as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 17958.1.
ADU law requires local government approval if meeting various requirements (GC Section
65852.2(a)(1)(D)), including unit size requirements. Specifically, attached ADUs shall not exceed 50
percent of the existing living area or 1,200 square feet and detached ADUs shall not exceed 1,200
square feet. A local government may choose a maximum unit size less than 1,200 square feet as long
as the requirement is not burdensome on the creation of ADUs.
Exhibit 5-12
Lan ADUs Exceed General Plan and 7onino Densities?
An ADU is an accessory use for the purposes of calculating allowable density under the general plan and zoning.
For example, if a zoning district allows one unit per 7,500 square feet, then an ADU would not be counted as an
additional unit. Minimum lot sizes must not be doubled (e.g., 15,000 square feet) to account for an ADU. Further,
local governments could elect to allow more than one ADU on a lot.
New developments can increase the total number of affordable units in their project plans by
integrating ADUs. Aside from increasing the total number of affordable units, integrating ADUs
also promotes housing choices within a development. One such example is the Cannery project
in Davis, CA. The Cannery project includes 547 residential units with up to 60 integrated ADUs.
ADUs within the Cannery blend in with surrounding architecture, maintaining compatibility with
ijuigt ibofliuods and elII i3ti{ iil C0111rnurlity 0iaiucturf AD us are curi:3XUC:LCd a ine same time as
the primary single-family unit to ensure the affordable rental unit is available in the housing
supply concurrent with the availability of market rate housing.
10
Exhibit 5-13
How Are Fees Charged to ADUs,.`
All impact fees, including water, sewer, park and traffic fees must be charged in accordance with the Fee Mitigation
Act, which requires fees to be proportional to the actual impact (e.g., significantly less than a single family home).
Fees on ADUs, must proportionately account for impact on services based on the size of the ADU or number of
plumbing fixtures. For example, a 700 square foot new ADU with one bathroom that results in less landscaping
should be charged much less than a 2,000 square foot home with three bathrooms and an entirely new
landscaped parcel which must be irrigated. Fees for ADUs should be significantly less and should account for a
lesser impact such as lower sewer or traffic impacts.
What Utility Fee Requirements Apply to ADt Ise
Cities and counties cannot consider ADUs as new residential uses when calculating connection fees and capacity
charges.
Where ADUs are being created within an existing structure (primary or accessory), the city or county cannot
require a new or separate utility connections for the ADU and cannot charge any connection fee or capacity
charge.
For other ADUs, a local agency may require separate utility connections between the primary dwelling and the
ADU, but any connection fee or capacity charge must be proportionate to the impact of the ADU based on either its
size or the number of plumbing fixtures.
What Utility Fee Requirements Apply to Non -City and Countv Service Districts?
All local agencies must charge impact fees in accordance with the Mitigation Fee Act (commencing with
Government Code Section 66000), including in particular Section 66013, which requires the connection fees and
capacity charges to be proportionate to the burden posed by the ADU. Special districts and non -city and county
service districts must account for the lesser impact related to an ADU and should base fees on unit size or number
of plumbing fixtures. Providers should consider a proportionate or sliding scale fee structures that address the
smaller size and lesser impact of ADUs (e.g., fees per square foot or fees per fixture). Fee waivers or deferrals
could be considered to better promote the development of ADUs.
Do Utility Fee Requirements Apply to ADUs within Existing Space?
No, where ADUs are being created within an existing structure (primary or accessory), new or separate utility
connections and fees (connection and capacity) must not be required.
Does "Public Transit" Include within One-half Mile of a Rus Stop and Train
Station?
Yes, "public transit' may include a bus stop, train station and paratransit if appropriate for the applicant. "Public
transit' includes areas where transit is available and can be considered regardless of tighter headways (e.g., 15
minute intervals). Local governments could consider a broader definition of "public transit' such as distance to a
bus route.
11
Exhibit 5-14
Can Parkinq Be Requirpd Where a Car Share Is Available`'
No, ADU law does not allow parking to be required when there is a car share located within a block of the ADU. A
car share location includes a designated pick up and drop off location. Local governments can measure a block
from a pick up and drop off location and can decide to adopt broader distance requirements such as two to three
blocks.
Is Off Street Parking Permitted in Setback Areas or through Tandem Parking? -
Yes, ADU law deliberately reduces parking requirements. Local governments may make specific findings that
tandem parking and parking in setbacks are infeasible based on specific site, regional topographical or fire and life
safety conditions or that tandem parking or parking in setbacks is not permitted anywhere else in the jurisdiction.
However, these determinations should be applied in a manner that does not unnecessarily restrict the creation of
ADUs.
Local governments must provide reasonable accommodation to persons with disabilities to promote equal
access housing and comply with fair housing laws and housing element law. The reasonable
accommodation procedure must provide exception to zoning and land use regulations which includes an
ADU ordinance. Potential exceptions are not limited and may include development standards such as
setbacks and parking requirements and permitted uses that further the housing opportunities of individuals
with disabilities.
Is Covered Parking Required
No, off street parking must be permitted through tandem parking on an existing driveway, unless specific findings
are made.
Is Replacement Parking Required When the Parking Area for the Primary
Structure Is Used for an ADU?
Yes, but only if the local government requires off-street parking to be replaced in which case flexible arrangements
such as tandem, including existing driveways and uncovered parking are allowed. Local governments have an
opportunity to be flexible and promote ADUs that are being created on existing parking space and can consider not
requiring replacement parking.
kre Setbacks Required When an Existing Garage Is Converted to an ADU?
No, setbacks must not be required when a garage is converted or when existing space (e.g., game room or office)
above a garage is converted. Rear and side yard setbacks of no more than five feet are required when new space
is added above a garage for an ADU. In this case, the setbacks only apply to the added space above the garage,
not the existing garage and the ADU can be constructed wholly or partly above the garage, including extending
beyond the garage walls.
12
Exhibit 5-15
Also, when a garage, carport or covered parking structure is demolished or where the parking area ceases to exist
so an ADU can be created, the replacement parking must be allowed in any "configuration" on the lot, "...including,
but not limited to, covered spaces, uncovered spaces, or tandem spaces, or...." Configuration can be applied in a
flexible manner to not burden the creation of ADUs. For example, spatial configurations like tandem on existing
driveways in setback areas or not requiring excessive distances from the street would be appropriate.
Are ADUs Permitted in Existing Residence or Accessory Space?
Yes, ADUs located in single family residential zones and existing space of a single family residence or accessory
structure must be approved regardless of zoning standards (Section 65852.2(a)(1)(B)) for ADUs, including
locational requirements (Section 65852.2(a)(1)(A)), subject to usual non -appealable ministerial building permit
requirements. For example, ADUs in existing space does not necessitate a zoning clearance and must not be
limited to certain zones or areas or subject to height, lot size, lot coverage, unit size, architectural review,
landscape or parking requirements. Simply, where a single family residence or accessory structure exists in any
single family residential zone, so can an ADU. The purpose is to streamline and expand potential for ADUs where
impact is minimal and the existing footprint is not being increased.
Zoning requirements are not a basis for denying a ministerial building permit for an ADU, including non -conforming
lots or structures. The phrase, "within the existing space" includes areas within a primary home or within an
attached or detached accessory structure such as a garage, a carriage house, a pool house, a rear yard studio
and similar enclosed structures.
Are Owner Occupants Requirt-d?
No, however, a local government can require an applicant to be an owner occupant. The owner may reside in the
primary or accessory structure. Local governments can also require the ADU to not be used for short term rentals
(terms lesser than 30 days). Both owner occupant use and prohibition on short term rentals can be required on the
same property. Local agencies which impose this requirement should require recordation of a deed restriction
regarding owner occupancy to comply with GC Section 27281.5
Are Fire Sprinklers Required for AnUq?
Depends, ADUs shall not be required to provide fire sprinklers if they are not or were not required of the primary
residence. However, sprinklers can be required for an ADU if required in the primary structure. For example, if the
primary residence has sprinklers as a result of an existing ordinance, then sprinklers could be required in the ADU.
Alternative methods for fire protection could be provided.
If the ADU is detached from the main structure or new space above a detached garage, applicants can be
encouraged to contact the local fire jurisdiction for information regarding fire sprinklers. Since ADUs are a unique
opportunity to address a variety of housing needs and provide affordable housing options for family members,
students, the elderly, in-home health care providers, the disabled, and others, the fire departments want to ensure
the safety of these populations as well as the safety of those living in the primary structure. Fire Departments can
help educate property owners on the benefits of sprinklers, potential resources and how they can be installed cost
effectively. For example, insurance rates are typically 5 to 10 percent lower where the unit is sprinklered. Finally,
other methods exist to provide additional fire protection. Some options may include additional exits, emergency
escape and rescue openings, 1 hour or greater fire -rated assemblies, roofing materials and setbacks from property
lines or other structures.
13
Exhibit 5-16
Is Manufactured Housing Permitted as an ADU?
Yes, an ADU is any residential dwelling unit with independent facilities and permanent provisions for living,
sleeping, eating, cooking and sanitation. An ADU includes an efficiency unit (Health and Safety Code Section
17958.1) and a manufactured home (Health and Safety Code Section 18007).
Health and Safety Code Section 18007(a) "Manufactured home," for the purposes of this part, means a
structure that was constructed on or after June 15, 1976, is transportable in one or more sections, is eight
body feet or more in width, or 40 body feet or more in length, in the traveling mode, or, when erected on
site, is 320 or more square feet, is built on a permanent chassis and designed to be used as a single-
faa-iily dwelling wirih oi witiiuut d iuundatian WhUiti cUrnlected to use required utilities, aria incivaes the
plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and electrical systems contained therein. "Manufactured home"
includes any structure that meets all the requirements of this paragraph except the size requirements and
with respect to which the manufacturer voluntarily files a certification and complies with the standards
established under the National Manufactured Housing Construction and Safety Act of 1974 (42 U.S.C.,
Sec. 5401, and following).
Can an Efficiency Unit Be Smaller than 220 Square Feet?
Yes, an efficiency unit for occupancy by no more than two persons, by statute (Health and Safety Code Section
17958.1), can have a minimum floor area of 150 square feet and can also have partial kitchen or bathroom
facilities, as specified by ordinance or can have the same meaning specified in the Uniform Building Code,
referenced in the Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations.
The 2015 International Residential Code adopted by reference into the 2016 California Residential Code
(CRC) allows residential dwelling units to be built considerably smaller than an Efficiency Dwelling Unit
(EDU). Prior to this code change an EDU was required to have a minimum floor area not less than 220 sq.
ft unless modified by local ordinance in accordance with the Califomia Health and Safety Code which could
altow an EDU to be built no less than 150 sq. ft. For more information, see HCD's Information Bulletin at
litt ://www.hcd.ca. ov/codes/manufactured-housin /docs1ib2016-06.pol .
Does ADU Law Apply to Charter Cities and Counties?
Yes. ADU law explicitly applies to "local agencies" which are defined as a city, county, or city and county whether
general law or chartered (Section 65852.2(i)(2)).
14
Exhibit 5-17
nn Alit lc (''.punt tnwarrl the Renionnl Housino Need Allocation?
Yes, local governments may report ADUs as progress toward Regional Housing Need Allocation pursuant to
Government Code Section 65400 based on the actual or anticipated affordability. See below frequently asked
questions for JADUs for additional discussion.
Must ADU Ordinances Be Submitted to the Department of Housing and
Community Development?
Yes, ADU ordinances must be submitted to the State Department of Housing and Community Development within
60 days after adoption, including amendments to existing ordinances. However, upon submittal, the ordinance is
not subject to a Department review and findings process similar to housing element law (GC Section 65585)
1s
Exhibit 5-18
Frequently Asked Questions:
Junior Accessory Dwelling Units
Is There a Difference between ADU and :IADILI ?
a i1
Courtesy of Lilypad Homes and Photo Credit to Jocelyn Knight
Maximum Unit Size
Bathroom
Separate Entrance
Parking
Yes, AB 2406 added Government Code Section 65852.22,
providing a unique option for Junior ADUs. The bill allows
local governments to adopt ordinances for JADUs, which are
no more than 500 square feet and are typically bedrooms in a
single-family home that have an entrance Into the unit from
the main home and an entrance to the outside from the
JADU. The JADU must have cooking facilities, including a
sink, but is not required to have a private bathroom. Current
law does not prohibit local governments from adopting an
ordinance for a JADU, and this bill explicitly allows, not
requires, a local agency to do so. If the ordinance requires a
permit, the local agency shall not require additional parking or
charge a fee for a water or sewer connection as a condition
of granting a permit for a JADU. For more information, see
below.
ADUs and JADUs
Yes, generally up to 1,200 Square Feet or
50% of living area
Yes
Yes
Depends
Yes, 500 Square Foot Maximum
Yes
No, Common Sanitation is Allowed
Yes
Depends, Parking May Be Eliminated and No, Parking Cannot Be Required
Cannot Be Required Under Specified
Conditions
Owner Occupancy Depends, Owner Occupancy May Be Yes, Owner Occupancy Is Required
Required
Ministerial Approval Process Yes Yes
I Prohibition on Sale of ADU Yes Yes
16
Exhibit 5-19
Whv Adopt a JADU Ordinance^
JADUs offer the simplest and most affordable housing option. They bridge the gap between a roommate and a
tenant by offering an interior connection between the unit and main living area. The doors between the two spaces
can be secured from both sides, allowing them to be easily privatized or incorporated back into the main living
area. These units share central systems, require no fire separation, and have a basic kitchen, utilizing small plug
in appliances, reducing development costs. This provides flexibility and an insurance policy in homes in case
additional income or housing is needed. They present no additional stress on utility services or infrastructure
because they simply repurpose spare bedrooms that do not expand the homes planned occupancy. No additional
address is required on the property because an interior connection remains. By adopting a JADU ordinance, local
governments can offer homeowners additional options to take advantage of underutilized space and better
address its housing needs.
Can JADUs Count towards the RHNA?
Yes, as part of the housing element portion of their general plan, local governments are required to identify sites
with appropriate zoning that will accommodate projected housing needs in their regional housing need allocation
(RHNA) and report on their progress pursuant to Government Code Section 65400. To credit a unit toward the
RHNA, HCD and the Department of Finance (DOF) utilize the census definition of a housing unit. Generally, a
JADU, including with shared sanitation facilities, that meets the census definition and is reported to the Department
of Finance as part of the DOF annual City and County Housing Unit Change Survey can be credited toward the
RHNA based on the appropriate income level. Local governments can track actual or anticipated affordability to
assure the JADU is counted to the appropriate income category. For example, some local governments request
and track information such as anticipated affordability as part of the building permit application.
A housing unit is a house, an apartment, a mobile home or trailer, a group of rooms, or a single room that
is occupied, or, if vacant, is intended for occupancy as separate living quarters. Separate living quarters
are those in which the occupants live separately from any other persons in the building and which have
direct access from the outside of the building or through a common hall.
Can the JADU Be Sold Independent of the Primary Dwelling?
No, the JADU cannot be sold separate from the primary dwelling.
Are JADUs Subiect to Connection and Capacity Fees'
No, JADUs shall not be considered a separate or new dwelling unit for the purposes of fees and as a result should
not be charged a fee for providing water, sewer or power, including a connection fee. These requirements apply to
all providers of water, sewer and power, including non -municipal providers.
Local governments may adopt requirements for fees related to parking, other service or connection for water,
sewer or power, however, these requirements must be uniform for all single family residences and JADUs are not
considered a new or separate unit.
17
Exhibit 5-20
Are There Requirements for Fire Separation and Fire Sprinklers?
Yes, a local government may adopt requirements related to fire and life protection requirements. However, a JADU
shall not be considered a new or separate unit. In other words, if the primary unit is not subject to fire or life
protection requirements, then the JADU must be treated the same.
18
Exhibit 5-21
Resources
Courtesy of Karen Chapple, UC Berkeley
19
Exhibit 5-22
Attachment 1: Statutory Changes (Strikeout/Underline)
Government Code Section 65852.2
(a) (1) Any A local agency may, by ordinance, provide for the creation of sesend accessory dwellinq units in
single-family and multifamily residential zones. The ordinance naay shall do any all of the following:
(A) Designate areas within the jurisdiction of the local agency where sesend accessory dwelling units may be
permitted. The designation of areas may be based on criteria, that may include, but are not limited to, the
adequacy of water and sewer services and the impact of sesend accessory dwelling units on traffic flew. flow and
public safe.
(B) (i) Impose standards on sesend accessory dwelling units that include, but are not limited to, parking, height,
setbaci , lot coverage, iandscapa, architectural review, maximum size of a unit, and standards that prevent adverse
impacts on any real property that is listed in the California Register of Historic Places.
ii Notwithstanding clause (i) a local agency may reduce or eliminate parking requirements for any accessory
dwelling unit located within its jurisdiction.
(C) Provide that sesend accessory dwelling units do not exceed the allowable density for the lot upon which
the sesend accessory dwelling unit is located, and that sesend-accessorydwelling units area residential use that
is consistent with the existing general plan and zoning designation for the lot.
(D) Require the accessory dwelling units to comply with all of the following:
(i) The unit is not intended for sale separate from the primary residence and may be rented.
(ii) The lot is zoned for single-family or multifamily use and contains an existing single-family dwelling
iii) The accessory dwellinq unit is either attached to the existing dwelling or located within the living area of the
existinq dwellinq or detached from the existing dwellinq and located on the same lot as the existing dwellinq.
(iv) The increased floor area of an attached accessory dwellinq unit shall not exceed 50 percent of the existing
living area, with a maximum increase in floor area of 1.200 square feet.
(v) The total area of floorspace for a detached accessory dwelling unit shall not exceed 1 200 square feet
(vi) No passageway shall be required in conjunction with the construction of an accessory dwellinq unit.
(vii) No setback shall be required for an existinq garage that is converted to a accessory dwellinq unit and a
setback of no more than five feet from the side and rear lot lines shall be required for an accessory dwellinq unit
that is constructed above aag rape.
(viii) Local building code requirements that apply to detached dwellings, as appropriate.
(ix) Approval by the local health officer where a private sewage disposal system is being used if required.
(x) (I) Parking requirements for accessory dwellinq units shall not exceed one parking space per unit or per
bedroom. These spaces may be provided as tandem parking on an existing driveway
(ll) Offstreet parking shall be permitted in setback areas in locations determined by the local agency or through
tandem parking, unless specific findings are made that parking in setback areas or tandem parking is not feasible
based upon specific site or regional topographical or fire and life safety conditions, or that it is not permitted
anywhere else in the iurisdiction.
(111) This clause shall not applV to a unit that is described in subdivision (d).
20
Exhibit 5-23
(xi) When a garage carport or covered parking structure is demolished in conjunction with the construction of an
accessory dwellinq unit and the local agency requires that those offstreet parking spaces be replaced, the
replacement spaces may be located in any configuration on the same lot as the accessory dwelling unit including,
but not limited to as covered spaces, uncovered spaces, or tandem spaces, or by the use of mechanical
automobile parking lifts. This clause shall not apply to a unit that is described in subdivision (d).
(2) The ordinance shall not be considered in the application of any local ordinance, policy, or program to limit
residential growth.
(3) When a local agency receives its first application on or after July 1, 2003, for a permit pursuant to this
subdivision, the application shall be considered ministerially without discretionary review or a hearing,
notwithstanding Section 65901 or 65906 or any local ordinance regulating the issuance of variances or special
use permits. Nothing in this n _
atien of AIDU -permits, within 920 days after receiving the application. A local agency may
charge a fee to reimburse it for costs that it incurs as a result of amendments to this paragraph enacted during the
2001-02 Regular Session of the Legislature, including the costs of adopting or amending any ordinance that
provides for the creation of Al3Us. an accessory dwelling unit.
(b} (4) k44 An When existing ordinance governing the creation of an accessory dwelling unit by a local
agency WhiGh has not adopte se with -sem
first ap lioation ewer after july 1, 1983, fGF a perwk-pufsuant to this subdivision,
applisatiea arm appreve or 'ea-miRisterial wi Fy review
subdi„isien unles i+ or an accessory dwelling ordinance adopted by a local agency subsequent to the effective
date of the act adding this paragraph shall provide an approval process that includes only ministerial provisions for
the approval of accessory dwelling units and shall not include any discretionary processes, provisions, or
requirements for those units except as otherwise provided in this subdivision In the event that a local agency has
an existing accessory dwelling unit ordinance that fails to meet the requirements of this subdivjsion, that ordinance
shall be null and void upon the effective date of the act adding this paragraph and that agency shall thereafter,
apply the standards established in this subdivision for the approval of accessory dwelling units, unless and until the
a enc adopts an ordinance ' ,i+hin „n days after roGeiving the
eGtie nol age n , shall n nt o Fianna Gr cnoniol use
permit iloinrir . that complies with this section.
�o� �.oqF,���„�-„�,�,uz,�y-tip ,,...y.., ............ ...........wy.., ...........,.........,...,.., ..., r.�....,..., ., .....,,
and otheron in the zone in ,uhinh the
t�tr�t�
iu .
(1) Approval by the IGGal health officer where a sewage disposal system is being used, if U*
21
Exhibit 5-24
M (5) No other local ordinance, policy, or regulation shall be the basis for the denial of a building permit or a use
permit under this subdivision.
(3) L6J This subdivision establishes the maximum standards that local agencies shall use to evaluate proposed
AIDUs 9R lets a proposed accessory dwelling unit on a lot zoned for residential use WhiGh GGRtain that contains an
existing single-family dwelling. No additional standards, other than those provided in thiss bdiyisie.-, ^" subdivisin-A
(a) subdivision, shall be utilized or imposed, except that a local agency may require an applicant for a permit
issued pursuant to this subdivision to be an ewner-essupapA-. owner -occupant or that the property be used for
rentals of terms longer than 30 days.
(4) (7) NG GhaRges 'R;�eninq erdinaRGe6 OF Other ardinaRG96 OF any Ghal;OeS iR the general plan shall be FequiFed
to implement this subdivisien-.Any A local agency may amend its zoning ordinance or general plan to incorporate
the policies, procedures, or other provisions applicable to the creation of ADUs an accessory dwelling unit if these
provisions are consistont with the limitations of this subdivision.
f n ADL) whish GORfGFFno to the r f f An accessory dwelling unit that conforms to this subdivision
shall be deemed to be an accessory use or an accessory building and shall not be considered to exceed the
allowable density for the lot upon which it is located, and shall be deemed to be a residential usewhieh that is
consistent with the existing general plan and zoning designations for the lot. The ADUs accessory dwelling unit
shall not be considered in the application of any local ordinance, policy, or program to limit residential growth.
(0 &Flo When a local agency
multifamily zGned areas unless the eFd*naRG9 GGRtaiRs findings aGknewledging that the eFd'RaRGe may I'mit
housing eppGrtunities of the region and fuFtheF Gontains findings that speGifiG adverse impaots on the publiG health—,
safety, and welfare that weuld Fe6ult from allewing ADLJs within single family and MU'tifaMily ZORed aFeas justify
that has not adopted an ordinance governing accessory dwelling units in accordance with
subdivision (a) receives its first application on or after July. 1. 1983, for a permit to create an accessory dwelling_
unit pursuant to this subdivision the local agency shall accept the application and approve or disapprove the
application ministerially without discretionary review pursuant to subdivision (a) within 120 days after receiving the
application.
(d) (c) A local agency may establish minimum and maximum unit size requirements for both attached and
detached seGand-accessory dwelling units. No minimum or maximum size for a-sesotad an accessory dwelling unit,
or size based upon a percentage of the existing dwelling, shall be established by ordinance for either attached or
detached dwellings whish that does not permit at least an efficiency unit to be constructed in compliance with local
development standards. Accessory dwelling units shall not be required to provide fire sprinklers if they are not
required for the primary residence.
(d) Notwithstanding any other law, a local agency, whether or not it has adopted an ordinance governing accessory
dwelling units in accordance with subdivision (a), shall not impose parking standards for an accessory dwelling unit
in any of the following instances:
(1) The accessory dwelling unit is located within one-half mile of public transit.
(2) The accessory dwelling unit is located within an architecturally and historically significant historic district.
t3l_The accessory_ dwelling unit is part of the existing primary residence or an existing accessory structure.
(4) When on -street parking permits are required but not offered to the occupant of the accessory dwelling unit.
(5) When there is a car share vehicle located within one block of the accessory dwelling unit.
(e) Parking Fequirements for ADUs shall not e . king spaG8 per unit or per bedrOGM. Additienal pa;
may be required previded that a finding is made that the additional parking requirements are d'reGtly related to
22
Exhibit 5-25
use of the AD 1 and amnnno rd intent with evicting neighhnrhenstandards appl'nehle to existingdwellings. wellings Off street_
parkiRg shall be permitted on setbaGk areas In locations determined by the IeGal agenGy Gr through tandern parking-,
unless speGifiG findings are made that parking in setba k areas or tandem parking is not feasible based upen
speGifiG site or regional topographical or fire and life safety conditions,
Notwithstanding subdivisions (a) to (d), inclusive, a local agency shall ministerially approve an
application for a buildinq permit to create within a single-family residential zone one accessory dwelling unit per
single-family lot if the unit is contained within the existing space of a single-family residence or accessory structure,
has independent exterior access from the existing residence, and the side and rear setbacks are sufficient for fire
safety, Accessory dwelling units shall not be required to provide fire sprinklers if they are not required for the
primary residence.
(f) (1) Fees charged for the construction of seeGnd-accessory dwelling units shall be determined in accordance
with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section6€900): 66000) and Chapter 7 (commencinq with Section 66092).
Accessory dwelling units shall not be considered new residential uses for the purposes of calculating local
agency connection fees or capacity charges for utilities, including water and sewer service.
(A) For an accessory dwelling unit described in subdivision (e), a local agency shall not require the applicant to
install a new or separate utility connection directly between the accessory dwelling unit and the utility or impose a
related connection fee or capacity charge.
(B) For an accessory dwelling unit that is not described in subdivision (e), a local agency may require a new or
separate utility connection directly between the accessory dwelling unit and the utility. Consistent with Section
66013, the connection may be subject to a connection fee or capacity charge that shall be proportionate to the
burden of the proposed accessory dwelling unit, based upon either its size or the number of its plumbing fixtures,
upon the water or sewer system. This fee or charge shall not exceed the reasonable cost of providing this service.
(g) This section does not limit the authority of local agencies to adopt less restrictive requirements for the creation
of ADLis. an accessory dwelling unit.
(h) Local agencies shall submit a copy of the ordinances ordinance adopted pursuant to subdivision (a) of44to
the Department of Housing and Community Development within 60 days after adoption.
(i) As used in this section, the following terms mean:
(1) "Living area," area" means the interior habitable area of a dwelling unit including basements and attics but does
not include a garage or any accessory structure.
(2) "Local agency" means a city, county, or city and county, whether general law or chartered.
(3) For purposes of this section, "neighborhood" has the same meaning as set forth in Section 65589.5.
(4) "Seeend "Accessory dwelling unit" means an attached or a detached residential dwelling unit which provides
complete independent living facilities for one or more persons. It shall include permanent provisions for living,
sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation on the same parcel as the single-family dwelling is situated. A--,eGGPA-An
accessory dwelling unit also includes the following:
(A) An efficiency unit, as defined in Section 17958.1 of Health and Safety Code.
(B) A manufactured home, as defined in Section 18007 of the Health and Safety Code.
(5) "Passageway" means a pathway that is unobstructed clear to the sky and extends from a street to one entrance
of the accessory dwelling unit.
23
Exhibit 5-26
0) Nothing in this section shall be construed to supersede or in any way alter or lessen the effect or application of
the California Coastal Act (Division 20 (commencing with Section 30000) of the Public Resources Code), except
that the local government shall not be required to hold public hearings for coastal development permit applications
for second -accessory dwelling units.
Government Code Section 65652.22.
_U Notwithstanding Section 65852.2, a local agency may, by ordinance, provide for the creation of junior
accessory dwellinq units in single-family residential zones. The ordinance may require a permit to be obtained for
the creation of a junior accessory dwelling unit, and shall do all of the following_
(1) Limit the number of junior accessory dwellinq units to one per residential lot zoned for single-family residences
with a single-family residence already built on the lot.
(2) Require owner -occupancy in the single-family residence in which the junior accessory dwelling unit will be
permitted. The owner may reside in either the remaining portion of the structure or the newly created junior
accessory dwellinq unit. Owner -occupancy shall not be required if the owner is another governmental agency, land
trust, or housing organization.
(3) Require the recordation of a deed restriction, which shall run with the land shall be filed with the permitting
agency, and shall include both of the following:
(A) A prohibition on the sale of the iunior accessory dwellinq unit separate from the sale of the single-family
residence, including a statement that the deed restriction may be enforced against future purchasers.
(B) A restriction on the size and attributes of the junior accessory dwellinq unit that conforms with this section.
(4) Require a permitted junior accessory dwelling unit to be constructed within the existing walls of the structure
and require the inclusion of an existing bedroom.
(5) Require a permitted junior accessory dwellinq to include a separate entrance from the main entrance to the
structure, with an interior entry to the main living area. A permitted iunior accessory dwellinq may include a second
interior doorway for sound attenuation.
(6) Require the permitted iunior accessory dwellinq unit to include an efficiency kitchen, which shall include all of
the following:
(A) A sink with a maximum waste line diameter of 1.5 inches.
(B) A cookinq facilitywith ith appliances that do not require electrical service greater than 120 volts or natural or
propane gas.
(C) A food preparation counter and storage cabinets that are of reasonable size in relation to the size of the iunior
accessory dwellinq unit.
& (1) An ordinance shall not require additional parking as a condition to grant a permit.
(2) This subdivision shall not be interpreted to prohibit the requirement of an inspection, including the imposition of
a fee for that inspection, to determine whether the iunior accessory dwellinq unit is in compliance with applicable
building standards.
(c) An application for a permit pursuant to this section shall, notwithstanding Section 65901 or 65906 or an local
ocal
ordinance regulating the issuance of variances or special use permits, be considered ministerially without
discretionary review or a hearing. A permit shall be issued within 120 days of submission of an application for a
24
Exhibit 5-27
permit pursuant to this section. A local agency may charge a fee to reimburse the local agencv for costs incurred in
connection with the issuance of a permit pursuant to this section.
Ld For the purposes of any fire or life protection ordinance or regulation a junior accessory dwelling unit shall not
be considered a separate or new dwelling unit. This section shall not be construed to prohibit a city, county, city
and county, or other local public entity from adopting an ordinance or regulation relating to fire and life protection
requirements within a single-family residence that contains a junior accessory dwelling unit so long as the
ordinance or regulation applies uniformly to all single-family residences within the zone regardless of whether the
single-family residence includes a junior accessory dwelling unit or not.
(e) For the purposes of providing service for water, sewer, or power, including a connection fee, a iunior accessory
dwelling unit shall not be considered a separate or new dwelling unit.
jfl This section shall not be construed to prohibit a local agencv from adopting an ordinance or regulation, related
to parking or a service or a connection fee for water, sewer, or power, that applies to a single-family residence that
contains a junior accessory dwelling unit so long as that ordinance or regulation applies uniformly to all single-
family residences regardless of whether the single-family residence includes a junior accessory dwelling unit.
(g) For purposes of this section, the followinq terms have the followinq meanings:
(1) `Junior accessory dwelling unit" means a unit that is no more than 500 square feet in size and contained
entirely within an existing single-family structure A junior accessory dwelling unit may include separate sanitation
facilities, or may share sanitation facilities with the existing structure.
(2) "Local agency" means a city, county, or city and county, whether general law or chartered.
25
Exhibit 5-28
Attachment 2: Sample ADU Ordinance
Section XXX1XXX: Purpose
This Chapter provides for accessory dwelling units on lots developed or proposed to be developed with single-
family dwellings. Such accessory dwellings contribute needed housing to the community's housing stock. Thus,
accessory dwelling units are a residential use which is consistent with the General Plan objectives and zoning
regulations and which enhances housing opportunities, including near transit on single family lots.
Section XXX2XXX: Applicability
The provisions of this Chapter apply to all lots that are occupied with a single family dwelling unit and zoned
residential. Accessory dwelling units do exceed the allowable density for the lot upon which the accessory
dwelling unit is located, and are a residential use that is consistent with the existing general plan and zoning
designation for the lot.
Section XXX3XXX: Development Standards
Accessory Structures within Existing Space
An accessory dwelling unit within an existing space including the primary structure, attached or detached garage or
other accessory structure shall be permitted ministerially with a building permit regardless of all other standards
within the Chapter if complying with:
1. Building and safety codes
2. Independent exterior access from the existing residence
3. Sufficient side and rear setbacks for fire safety.
Accessory Structures (Attached and Detached)
General:
The unit is not intended for sale separate from the primary residence and may be rented.
The lot is zoned for residential and contains an existing, single-family dwelling.
The accessory dwelling unit is either attached to the existing dwelling or detached from the existing dwelling
and located on the same lot as the existing dwelling.
The increased floor area of an attached accessory dwelling unit shall not exceed 50 percent of the existing
living area, with a maximum increase in floor area of 1,200 square feet.
The total area of floor space for a detached accessory dwelling unit shall not exceed 1,200 square feet.
Local building code requirements that apply to detached dwellings, as appropriate.
No passageway shall be required in conjunction with the construction of an accessory dwelling unit.
No setback shall be required for an existing garage that is converted to a accessory dwelling unit, and a
setback of no more than five feet from the side and rear lot lines shall be required for an accessory dwelling
unit that is constructed above a garage.
Accessory dwelling units shall not be required to provide fire sprinklers if they are not required for the primary
residence and may employ alternative methods for fire protection.
Parking:
1. Parking requirements for accessory dwelling units shall not exceed one parking space per unit or per
bedroom. These spaces may be provided as tandem parking, including on an existing driveway or in setback
areas, excluding the non -driveway front yard setback.
2. Parking is not required in the following instances:
• The accessory dwelling unit is located within one-half mile of public transit, including transit
stations and bus stations.
26
Exhibit 5-29
• The accessory dwelling unit is located in the WWWW Downtown, XXX Area, YYY Corridor and
ZZZ Opportunity Area.
® The accessory dwelling unit is located within an architecturally and historically significant historic
district.
• When on -street parking permits are required but not offered to the occupant of the accessory
dwelling unit.
• When there is a car share vehicle located within one block of the accessory dwelling unit.
Replacement Parking: When a garage, carport, or covered parking structure is demolished or converted in
conjunction with the construction of an accessory dwelling unit, replacement parking shall not be required
and may be located in any configuration on the same lot as the accessory dwelling unit.
Section XXX4XXX: Permit Requirements
ADUs shall be permitted ministerially, in compliance with this Chapter within 120 days of application. The
Community Development Director shall issue a building permit or zoning certificate to establish an accessory
dwelling unit in compliance with this Chapter if all applicable requirements are met in Section XXX3XXXXX, as
appropriate. The Community Development Director may approve an accessory dwelling unit that is not in
compliance with Section XXX3XXXX as set forth in Section XXXSXXXX. The XXXX Health Officer shall approve
an application in conformance with XXXXXX where a private sewage disposal system is being used.
Section XXXSXXX: Review Process for Accessory Structure Not Complying with
Development Standards
An accessory dwelling unit that does not comply with standards in Section XXX3XX may permitted with a zoning
certificate or an administrative use permit at the discretion of the Community Development Director subject to
findings in Section XXX6XX
Section XXX6XXX: Findings
A. In order to deny an administrative use permit under Section XXXSXXX, the Community Development Director
shall find that the Accessory Dwelling Unit would be detrimental to the public health and safety or would introduce
unreasonable privacy impacts to the immediate neighbors.
B. In order to approve an administrative use permit under Section XXXSXXX to waive required accessory dwelling
unit parking, the Community Development Director shall find that additional or new on-site parking would be
detrimental, and that granting the waiver will meet the purposes of this Chapter.
Section XXX7XXX: Definitions
(1) "Living area means the interior habitable area of a dwelling unit including basements and attics but does not
include a garage or any accessory structure.
(2) "Accessory dwelling unit' means an attached or a detached residential dwelling unit which provides complete
independent living facilities for one or more persons. It shall include permanent provisions for living, sleeping,
eating, cooking, and sanitation on the same parcel as the single-family dwelling is situated. An accessory
dwelling unit also includes the following:
(A) An efficiency unit, as defined in Section 17958.1 of Health and Safety Code.
(B) A manufactured home, as defined in Section 18007 of the Health and Safety Code.
(3) "Passageway" means a pathway that is unobstructed clear to the sky and extends from a street to one entrance
of the accessory dwelling unit.
27
Exhibit 5-30
(4) (1) "Existing Structure" for the purposes of defining an allowable space that can be converted to an ADU means
within the four walls and roofline of any structure existing on or after January 1, 2017 that can be made safely
habitable under local building codes at the determination of the building official regardless of any non-compliance
with zoning standards.
28
Exhibit 5-31
Attachment 3: Sample JADU Ordinance
(Lilypad Homes at hUDMAilvnadhomes.ora/)
Draft Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADU) — Flexible Housing
Findings:
1. Causation: Critical need for housing for lower income families and individuals given the high cost of living and
low supply of affordable homes for rent or purchase, and the difficulty, given the current social and economic
environment, in building more affordable housing
2. Mitigation: Create a simple and inexpensive permitting track for the development of junior accessory dwelling
units that allows spare bedrooms in homes to serve as a flexible form of infill housing
3. Endangerment: Provisions currently required under agency ordinances are so arbitrary, excessive, or
burdensome as to restrict the ability of homeowners to legally develop these units therefore encouraging
homeowners to bypass safety standards and procedures that make the creation of these units a benefit to the
whole of the community
4. Co -Benefits: Homeowners (particularly retired seniors and young families, groups that tend to have the lowest
incomes) — generating extra revenue, allowing people facing unexpected financial obstacles to remain in their
homes, housing parents, children or caregivers; Homebuyers - providing rental income which aids in mortgage
qualification under new government guidelines; Renters — creating more low-cost housing options in the
community where they work, go to school or have family, also reducing commute time and expenses;
Municipalities — helping to meet RHNA goals, increasing property and sales tax revenue, insuring safety
standard code compliance, providing an abundant source of affordable housing with no additional
infrastructure needed; Community - housing vital workers, decreasing traffic, creating economic growth both in
the remodeling sector and new customers for local businesses; Planet - reducing carbon emissions, using
resources more efficiently;
5. Benefits of Junior ADUs: offer a more affordable housing option to both homeowners and renters, creating
economically healthy, diverse, multi -generational communities;
Therefore, the following ordinance is hereby enacted:
This Section provides standards for the establishment of junior accessory dwelling units, an alternative to the
standard accessory dwelling unit, permitted as set forth under State Law AB 1866 (Chapter 1062, Statutes of
2002) Sections 65852.150 and 65852.2 and subject to different provisions under fire safety codes based on the
fact that junior accessory dwelling units do not qualify as "complete independent living facilities" given that the
interior connection from the junior accessory dwelling unit to the main living area remains, therefore not redefining
the single-family home status of the dwelling unit.
A) Development Standards. Junior accessory dwelling units shall comply with the following standards, including
the standards in Table below:
1) Number of Units Allowed. Only one accessory dwelling unit or, junior accessory dwelling unit, may be
located on any residentially zoned lot that permits a single-family dwelling except as otherwise regulated or
restricted by an adopted Master Plan or Precise Development Plan. A junior accessory dwelling unit may
only be located on a lot which already contains one legal single-family dwelling.
2) Owner Occupancy: The owner of a parcel proposed for a junior accessory dwelling unit shall occupy as a
principal residence either the primary dwelling or the accessory dwelling, except when the home is held by
an agency such as a land trust or housing organization in an effort to create affordable housing.
3) Sale Prohibited. A junior accessory dwelling unit shall not be sold independently of the primary dwelling on
the parcel.
29
Exhibit 5-32
4) Deed Restriction: A deed restriction shall be completed and recorded, in compliance with Section B below.
5) Location of Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit: A junior accessory dwelling unit must be created within the
existing walls of an existing primary dwelling, and must include conversion of an existing bedroom.
6) Separate Entry Required. A separate exterior entry shall be provided to serve a junior accessory dwelling
unit.
7) Interior Entry Remains: The interior connection to the main living area must be maintained, but a second
door may be added for sound attenuation.
8) Kitchen Requirements: The junior accessory dwelling unit shall include an efficiency kitchen, requiring and
limited to the following components:
a) A sink with a maximum waste line diameter of one -and -a -half (1.5) inches,
b) A cooking facility with appliance which do not require electrical service greater than one -hundred -and -
twenty (120) volts or natural or propane gas, and
c) A food preparation counter and storage cabinets that are reasonable to size of the unit.
9) Parking: No additional parking is required beyond that required when the existing primary dwelling was
constructed.
Development Standards for Junior Accessory Dwelling Units
Maximum unit size 500 square feet
Setbacks As required for the primary dwelling unit
I Parking No additional parking required I
B) Deed Restriction: Prior to obtaining a building permit for a junior accessory dwelling unit, a deed restriction,
approved by the City Attorney, shall be recorded with the County Recorder's office, which shall include the
pertinent restrictions and limitations of a junior accessory dwelling unit identified in this Section. Said deed
restriction shall run with the land, and shall be binding upon any future owners, heirs, or assigns. A copy of the
recorded deed restriction shall be filed with the Department stating that:
1) The junior accessory dwelling unit shall not be sold separately from the primary dwelling unit;
2) The junior accessory dwelling unit is restricted to the maximum size allowed per the development
standards;
3) The junior accessory dwelling unit shall be considered legal only so long as either the primary residence,
or the accessory dwelling unit, is occupied by the owner of record of the property, except when the home is
owned by an agency such as a land trust or housing organization in an effort to create affordable housing;
4) The restrictions shall be binding upon any successor in ownership of the property and lack of compliance
with this provision may result in legal action against the property owner, including revocation of any right to
maintain a junior accessory dwelling unit on the property.
C) No Water Connection Fees: No agency should require a water connection fee for the development of a junior
accessory dwelling unit. An inspection fee to confirm that the dwelling unit complies with development standard
may be assessed.
30
Exhibit 5-33
D) No Sewer Connection Fees: No agency should require a sewer connection fee for the development of a junior
accessory dwelling unit. An inspection fee to confirm that the dwelling unit complies with development standard
may be assessed.
E) No Fire Sprinklers and Fire Attenuation: No agency should require fire sprinkler or fire attenuation
specifications for the development of a junior accessory dwelling unit. An inspection fee to confirm that the
dwelling unit complies with development standard may be assessed.
Definitions of Specialized Terms and Phrases.
"Accessory dwelling unit" means an attached or a detached residential dwelling unit which provides complete
independent living facilities for one or more persons. It shall include permanent provisions for living, sleeping,
eating, cooking, and sanitation on the same parcel as the single-family dwelling is situated. An accessory dwelling -
unit also includes the following:
(1) An efficiency unit, as defined in Section 17958.1 of Health and Safety Code.
(2) A manufactured home, as defined in Section 18007 of the Health and Safety Code.
"Junior accessory dwelling unit" means a unit that is no more than 500 square feet in size and contained entirely
within an existing single-family structure. A junior accessory dwelling unit may include separate sanitation facilities,
or may share sanitation facilities with the existing structure.
31
Exhibit 5-34
Attachment 4: State Standards Checklist (As of January 1, 2017)
Unit is not intended for sale separate from the primary residence and may be 65852.2(a)(1)(D)(1)
rented.
Lot is zoned for single-family or multifamily use and contains an existing, single- 65852.2(a)(1)(D))ii)
family dwelling.
Accessory dwelling unit is either attached to the existing dwelling or located 65852.2(x)(1)(D)(iii
within the living area of the existing dwelling or detached from the existing }
dwelling and lerated or. zh , sarnc !�+ 'ha existing
Increased floor area of an attached accessory dwelling unit does not exceed 50
percent of the existing living area, with a maximum increase in floor area of
1,200 square feet.
65852.2(a)(1)(D)(iv
Total area of floor space for a detached accessory dwelling unit dies not exceed i 65852.2(a)(1)(D)(v
1,200 square feet. )
Passageways are not required in conjunction with the construction of an 65852.2(a)(1)(D)(vi
accessory dwelling unit. )
Setbacks are not required for an existing garage that is converted to an 65852.2(a)(1)(D)(vi
accessory dwelling unit, and a setback of no more than five feet from the side i)
and rear lot lines are not required for an accessory dwelling unit that is
constructed above a garage.
(Local building code requirements that apply to detached dwellings are met, as
appropriate.
65852.2(a)(1)(D)(vi
ii)
Local health officer approval where a private sewage disposal system is being 65852.2(a)(1)(D)(ix
used, if required. )
Parking requirements do not exceed one parking space per unit or per bedroom. 65852.2(a)(1)(D)(x
These spaces may be provided as tandem parking on an existing driveway. )
* Other requirements may apply. See Government Code Section 65852.2
32
Exhibit 5-35
Attachment 5: Bibliography
Reports
ACCESSORY nWELLING UNITS: CASE STUDY (26 pp.)
By United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Policy Development and Research.
(2008)
Introduction: Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) — also referred to as accessory apartments, ADUs, or granny flats
— are additional living quarters on single-family lots that are independent of the primary dwelling unit. The
separate living spaces are equipped with kitchen and bathroom facilities, and can be either attached or detached
from the main residence. This case study explores how the adoption of ordinances, with reduced regulatory
restrictions to encourage ADUs, can be advantageous for communities. Following an explanation of the various
types of ADUs and their benefits, this case study provides examples of municipalities with successful ADU
legislation and programs. Section titles include: History of ADUs; Types of Accessory Dwelling Units; Benefits of
Accessory Dwelling Units; and Examples of ADU Ordinances and Programs.
THE MACRO VIEW ON MICRO UNITS (46 pp.)
By Bill Whitlow, et al. - Urban Land Institute (2014)
Library Call #: H43 4.21 M33 2014
The Urban Land Institute Multifamily Housing Councils were awarded a ULI Foundation research grant in fall 2013
to evaluate from multiple perspectives the market performance and market acceptance of micro and small units.
RESPONDING TO CHANGING HOUSEHOLDS. Regulatory Challenges for Micro -units and Accessory
Dwelling Units (76 pp.)
By Vicki Been, Benjamin Gross, and John Infranca (2014)
New York University: Furman Center for Real Estate & Urban Policy
Library Call # D55 3 147 2014
This White Paper fills two gaps in the discussion regarding compact units. First, we provide a detailed analysis of
the regulatory and other challenges to developing both ADUs and micro -units, focusing on five cities: New York;
Washington, DC; Austin; Denver; and Seattle. That analysis will be helpful not only to the specific jurisdictions we
study, but also can serve as a model for those who what to catalogue regulations that might get in the way of the
development of compact units in their own jurisdictions. Second, as more local governments permit or encourage
compact units, researchers will need to evaluate how well the units built serve the goals proponents claim they will.
SCALING UP SECONDARY UNIT PRODUCTION IN THE EAST BAY: Impacts and Policy Implications
(25 pp.)
By Jake Webmann, Alison Nemirow, and Karen Chapple (2012)
UC Berkeley: Institute of Urban and Regional Development (TURD)
Library Call # H44 1.1 S33 2012
This paper begins by analyzing how many secondary units of one particular type, detached backyard cottages,
might be built in the East Bay, focusing on the Flatlands portions of Berkeley, EI Cerrito, and Oakland. We then
investigate the potential impacts of scaling up the strategy with regard to housing affordability, smart growth,
alternative transportation, the economy, and city budgets. A final section details policy recommendations, focusing
on regulatory reforms and other actions cities can take to encourage secondary unit construction, such as
promoting carsharing programs, educating residents, and providing access to finance.
33
Exhibit 5-36
SECONDARY UNITS AND URBAN INFILL: A literature Review (12
By Jake Wegmann and Alison Nemirow (2011)
UC Berkeley: IURD
Library Call # D44 4.21 S43 2011
This literature review examines the research on both infill development in general, and secondary units in
particular, with an eye towards understanding the similarities and differences between infill as it is more
traditionally understood — i.e., the development or redevelopment of entire parcels of land in an already urbanized
area — and the incremental type of infill that secondary unit development constitutes.
YES, BUT WILL THEY LET US BUILD? The Feasibility of Secondary Units in the East Bay (17 pp.)
By Alison Nemirow and Karen Chapple (2012)
UC Berkeley: IURD
Library Call # H44.5 1.1 Y47 2012
This paper begins with a discussion of how to determine the development potential for secondary units, and then
provides an overview of how many secondary units can be built in the East Bay of San Francisco Bay Area under
current regulations. The next two sections examine key regulatory barriers in detail for the five cities in the study
(Albany, Berkeley, EI Cerrito, Oakland, and Richmond), looking at lot size, setbacks, parking requirements, and
procedural barriers. A sensitivity analysis then determines how many units could be built were the regulations to be
relaxed.
YES IN MY BACKYARD: Mobilizing the Market for Secondary Units (20 pp.)
By Karen Chapple, J. Weigmann, A. Nemirow, and C. Dentel-Post (2011)
UC Berkeley: Center for Community Innovation.
Library Call # B92 1.1 Y47 2011
This study examines two puzzles that must be solved in order to scale up a secondary unit strategy: first, how can
city regulations best enable their construction? And second, what is the market for secondary units? Because
parking is such an important issue, we also examine the potential for secondary unit residents to rely on alternative
transportation modes, particular car share programs. The study looks at five adjacent cities in the East Bay of the
San Francisco Bay Area (Figure 1) -- Oakland, Berkeley, Albany, EI Cerrito, and Richmond -- focusing on the
areas within '/z mile of five Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) stations.
Journal Articles and Working Papers:
BACKYARD HOMES LA (17 pp.)
By Dana Cuff, Tim Higgins, and Per -Johan Dahl, Eds. (2010)
Regents of the University of California, Los Angeles.
City Lab Project Book.
DEVELOPING PRIVATE ACCESSORY DWELLINGS (6 pp.)
By William P. Macht. Urbanland online. (June 26, 2015)
Library Location: Urbanland 74 (3/4) March/April 2015, pp. 154-161.
34
Exhibit 5-37
GRANNY FLATS GAINING GROM (2 pp.)
By Brian Barth, Planning Magazine: pp. 16-17. (April 2016)
Library Location: Serials
"HIDDEN" DENSITY: THE POTENTIAL OF SMALL-SCALE INFILL DEVELOPMENT (2 pp.)
By Karen Chapple (2011)
UC Berkeley: IURD Policy Brief.
Library Call # D44 1.2 H53 2011
California's implementation of SB 375, the Sustainable Communities and Climate Protection Act of 2008, is putting
new pressure on communities to support infill development. As metropolitan planning organizations struggle to
communicate the need for density, they should take note of strategies that make increasing density an attractive
choice for neighborhoods and regions.
HIDDEN DENSITY IN SINGLE-FAMILY NEIGHBORHOODS: Backyard cottages as an equitable smart
growth strategy (22 pp.)
By Jake Wegmann and Karen Chapple. Journal of Urbanism 7(3): pp. 307-329. (2014)
Abstract (not available in full text): Secondary units, or separate small dwellings embedded within single-family
residential properties, constitute a frequently overlooked strategy for urban infill in high-cost metropolitan areas in
the United States. This study, which is situated within California's San Francisco Bay Area, draws upon data
collected from a homeowners' survey and a Rental Market Analysis to provide evidence that a scaled -up strategy
emphasizing one type of secondary unit — the backyard cottage — could yield substantial infill growth with minimal
public subsidy. In addition, it is found that this strategy compares favorably in terms of affordability with infill of the
sort traditionally favored in the `smart growth' literature, i.e. the construction of dense multifamily housing
developments.
RETHINKING PRIVATE ACCESSORY DWELLINGS (5 pp.)
By William P. Macht. Urbanland online. (March 6, 2015)
Library Location: Urbanland 74 (1/2) January/February 2015, pp. 87-91.
ADUS AND LOS ANGELES' BROKEN PLANNING SYSTEI' (4 pp.)
By CARLYLE W. Hall. The Planning Report. (April 26, 2016).
Land -use attorney Carlyle W. Hall comments on building permits for accessory dwelling units.
News:
HOW ONE COLORADO CITY INSTANTLY CREATED AFFORDABLE HOUSING
By Anthony Flint. The Atlantic-CityLab. (May 17, 2016).
In Durango, Colorado, zoning rules were changed to allow, for instance, non -family members as residents in
already -existing accessory dwelling units.
NEW HAMPSHIRE WINS PROTECTIONS FOR ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS (1 p.)
NLIHC (March 28, 2016)
Affordable housing advocates in New Hampshire celebrated a significant victory this month when Governor
Maggie Hassan (D) signed Senate Bill 146, legislation that allows single-family homeowners to add an accessory
35
Exhibit 5-38
dwelling unit as a matter of right through a conditional use permit or by special exception as determined by their
municipalities. The bill removes a significant regulatory barrier to increasing rental homes at no cost to taxpayers.
NEW IN-LAW SUITE RULES BOOST AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN SAN FRANCISCO. (3 pp.)
By Rob Poole. Shareable. (June 10, 2014).
The San Francisco Board of Supervisors recently approved two significant pieces of legislation that support
accessory dwelling units (ADUs), also known as "in-law" or secondary units, in the city...
USING ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS TO BOLSTER AFFORDABLE HOUSING (3 pp.)
By Michael Ryan. Smart Growth America. (December 12, 2014).
36
Exhibit 5-39
Meeting Date: July 25, 2017
SAM RAFAEL
Agenda item:
hslr;� THE CITY WITH A MISSION Case Numbers: ' P16-011
Corn u D velopment Department - Planning Division I Project Planner: Raffi Boloyan (415) 485-3095
REPORT TO PLANNING COMMISSION
SUBJECT: Election of new officers (Chair and Vice Chair) due to recent vacancy.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Planning Commission conducted their annual meeting in January 2017 and elected Commissioner
Belletto as Chair and Commissioner Davidson as Vice Chair for 2017. Since that election,
Commissioner Belletto's term on the Commission expired and he was not re -appointed to the Planning
Commission. Therefore, there is now a vacancy in the Commission Officers and a new election must be
conducted.
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Planning Commission conduct an election to select a new Chair and Vice
Chair to complete the 2017 term.
BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS
Election of Officers:
Section ILE of the Planning Commission "Rules and Procedures" requires that the Planning Commission
conduct an annual meeting to select officers (Chair and Vice Chair) for the calendar year. The Annual
Meeting is defined as the "first meeting of the calendar year," which for this year isn't until January 10th
for the 2017 calendar year. The office of the Chair and Vice Chair is rotational with selection based on
seniority or tenure of service. The Rules and'Procedures sate
A Chair and Vice -Chair shall be elected from among the Commission's membership at the Annual
Meeting held the first meeting of the calendar year, to serve for a one year period. It is intended that
the Chair and Vice -Chair be rotated among the Commissioners based on tenure, as defined by total
years of service. In the event the years of service are identical, tenure will be determined in
alphabetical order. It is the general rule that a Commissioner shall not serve as Chair more than
once in'seven consecutive years. However, in the event that: 1) a position is vacated; 2) a
Commissioner is not interested in serving as an officer, or 3)'there is limited tenure among the other
Commissioners, then a Commissioner can be appointed as an officer more than once in seven
years.
On January 10, 2017 the Commission conducted their annual meeting. It was determined that the 2016
Vice Chair (Belletto) was next -in-line to serve as Chair. Commissioner Belletto served as Vice Chair in
2016 and had never served as Chair. Since he was the Vice Chair in_ 2016, the rules and procedures
dictated that Commissioner Belletto was to be the next Chair for 2017.
The 2017 Vice Chair was established by the same rules and procedures for Chair. In the case of the
Vice Chair, there were three Commissioners who had not served as Chair in the past 7 years
(Commissioner's Belletto, Davidson and Loughran). Commissioner Belletto was slated to serve as Chair
this upcoming year. Of the remaining two, both had never served as an officer (Chair or Vice Chair).
REPORT TO PLANNING COMMISSION Page 2
Commissioner Davidson had the most tenure of the two. Therefore, the Commissioner with the most
tenure of service that is also eligible to serve as Chair (will not have served more than once as chair in
past seven years) was Commissioner Davidson and she was elected to be Vice Chair for 2017.
The rules also state that if a Commissioner is not interested in serving as an officer and there is limited
tenure among the other Commissioners, then a Commissioner can be appointed as an officer more than
once in seven years.
Current Vacancy in Chair:
In June of 2017, Commissioner Belletto's four (4) year term on the Commission was set to expire. The
City Council conducted interviews and did not re -appoint Mr. Belletto. Therefore, as of July 1 s`, the role of
Chair is vacant. Section 1.13.1.d of the Planning Commission's Rules and Procedures addresses this
situation, where there is a vacancy in the role of Chair. The Rules state:
The Vire-Chair shall succeed the Chair if helshe vacates the office, and shall serve the un-
expired term of the Chair. The Commission shall elect a new Vice -Chair to serve the un -expired
term of that office. Selection shall be based on seniority
Therefore, based on the Rules and Procedures, current Vice Chair, Commissioner Davidson, is next in
line to assume the role of Chair. For Vice Chair, the rules state that the Commission is to elect a new
Vice Chair to serve the unexpired term and that selection is to be based on seniority. The rules do not
specify that the seniority has the same limitation as the annual election (most senior tenure who has not
served as an officer in the past 7 years). The rules simply state that selection shall be based on seniority.
Using this criteria, the most senior Commissioner would be Commissioner Paul.
Therefore, staff recommends that Commission Davidson be elected as the Chair for the remaining term
of 2017 and Commission Paul be elected as Vice Chair for remaining term of 2017.
OPTIONS
Regarding the elections, the Planning Commission has the following options:
Elect Commissioner Davidson as Chair and Commissioner Paul as Vice chair for remainder of
2017 (staff recommendation).
2. If one of the members is not agreeable to serve as an officer, the Commission may elect another
Commissioner to serve as an officer.
EXHIBITS
1. Table Listing Planning Commissioners, Tenure and Chairpersonship
2. Current Planning Commission "Rules and Procedures," adopted January 27, 2009
W. lPlanninglPLANNING COMMISSIONIRules and Procedures12017 Review (P16-011)IPC Report - Elect New
Chair and Vice Chair 07.25.17. doc
EXHIBIT 1
San Rafael Planning Commission
History of Tenure and Chairpersonship
Commissioner
First Appointed to
Commission
Years Served as
Chairperson
Years Served as
Vice Chair
Mark Lubamersky
10/2012
Chair 2016
Vice Chair 2015
Larry Paul
7%2002
Chair 2005
Chair 2013
Vice Chair 2004
Vice Chair 2012
Berenice Davidson
6/2015
None
Vice Chair 2017 (part)
Jack Robertson
7/2011
Chair 2014
Vice Chair 2013
Barrett Schaefer
8/2012
Chair 2015
Vice Chair 2014
Sarah Loughran
11/2016
None
None
Jeff Schoppert
7/2017
None
None
W:\Planning\PLANNING COMMISSION\Rules and Procedures\2017 Review (P16-011)\Mid year
election of officers - 07.25.17\PC Tenure and chairpersonship Table_07.25.17.doc
PLANNING COMMISSION RULES AND PROCEDURES
CITY OF SAN RAFAEL
Revisions, Adopted at Annual Planning Commission Meeting of January 27, 2009
I. Organization and Officers
A. Organization
1. The Planning Commission shall consist of seven regular members appointed by
the Mayor with the approval of the City Council and shall be organized and
exercise such powers as prescribed by the City Charter and by the San Rafael
Municipal Code (City (-'ode).
2. The term of the Commission members is four years with a staggered expiration
schedule.
3. Vacancies on the Commission for other than expiration will be filled by
appointment for the un -expired portion of the term.
4. If any Commissioner should have three consecutive, unexplained absences from
regular meetings of the Planning Commission as shown in the roll call of the
official minutes, the Chair may recommend to the City Council that the seat 'be
relinquished.
5. If any Commissioner wishes to request a leave of absence for three to six
consecutive meetings, the request shall be made to and approved by the Chair. A
request for a leave of absence for more than six consecutive meetings shall be
made to and approved by the City Council.
B. Officers
1. Selection
a. A Chair and Vice -Chair shall be elected from among the Commission's
membership at the Annual Meeting held the first meeting of the calendar year,
to serve for a one year period. It is intended that the Chair and Vice -Chair be
rotated among the Commissioners based on tenure, as defined by total years
of service. In the event the years of service are identical, tenure will be
determined in alphabetical order. It is the general rule that a Commissioner
shall not serve as Chair more than once in seven consecutive years. However,
in the event that: 1) a position is vacated; 2) a Commissioner is not interested
in serving as an officer; or 3) there is limited tenure among the other
Commissioners, then a Commissioner can be appointed as an officer more
than once in seven years.
b. The Vice -Chair shall serve as Chair in the following year.
c. The Chair and Vice -Chair may not succeed themselves. However, in the event
that the current Chair or Vice -Chair has served less than a year, the
Commission may choose to re-elect her/him for an additional term.
d. The Vice -Chair shall succeed the Chair if he/she vacates the office, and shall
serve the un -expired term of the Chair. The Commission shall elect a new
Vice -Chair to serve the un -expired term of that office. Selection shall be based
on seniority.
e. In the absence of the Chair and Vice -Chair, the member of the Commission
with the longest tenure, as defined by total years of service, shall preside over
the meeting. In the event that the years of service are identical, seniority will
be determined by alphabetical order.
2. Responsibilities
The responsibilities and powers of the officers of the Planning Commission shall
be as follows:
a. Chair
- Preside at all meetings of the Commission.
- Call special meetings of the Commission in accordance with legal
requirements and the Rules. of Procedure.
- Sign documents of the Commission.
- See that all actions of the Commission are properly taken.
- Assist staff in determining agenda items.
- The Chair shall be an ex officio member of all committees with voice but not
vote.
b. Vice -Chair
During the absence, disability or disqualification of the Chair, the Vice -Chair
shall exercise or perform all the duties and be subject to all the responsibilities
of the Chair.
C. Duties and Powers
1. The Planning Commission shall have the power to recommend to the City
Council, after conducting a public hearing, the adoption, the amendment or the
repeal of a General Plan, a Neighborhood or Specific Plan, the Zoning Ordinance
of the City Code, or a site-specific master plan for a Planned Development (PD)
District, or any part thereof, for the physical development of the City.
2. The Planning Commission shall exercise such functions with respect to
environmental review, land subdivisions, land use and planning, design review,
and zoning, as may be prescribed by City Code, City resolution, and State law.
3. The Commission shall advise the City Council on those matters falling within its
charged responsibilities in a manner reflecting concern for the overall
development and environment of the City as a setting for human activities.
D. Rules of Order
Except as otherwise provided in these Rules of Procedure, "Roberts Rules of Order,
Newly Revised" shall be used as a guide to the conduct of the meetings of the
2
Planning Commission, provided, however, that a failure of the Commission to
conform to said rules of order shall not, in any instance, be deemed to invalidate the
action taken.
II. Meetings
A. Public Meetings
All meetings shall be held in full compliance with the provisions of state law,
ordinances of the City and these Rules of Procedure.
B. Regular Meetings
1. Regular meetings shall be held on the second and fourth Tuesdays following the
first Monday in each month, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the City
Hall, unless otherwise determined by the Commission. All regular meetings must
be held within the city limits of San Rafael.
2. Whenever a regular meeting falls on a public holiday, no regular meeting shall be
held on that day. Such regular meeting may be rescheduled to another business
day, or canceled by motion adopted by the Planning Commission. All meetings
must be held within the city limits of San Rafael.
3. A meeting of the Commission may be canceled by the Chair for lack of a quorum,
no pending business, or any other valid reason. Such cancellation may be made at
any time prior to the scheduled meeting. All efforts shall be made by the
Community Development Department staff to notify those involved at the earliest
possible time. Prior to the scheduled meeting, the Community Development staff
shall post a cancellation notice on the City of San Rafael public hearing board, the
City website and at the prescribed location of the meeting.
C. Adjourned Meetings
In the event it is the wish of the Planning Commission to adjourn its meeting to a
certain hour on another day, a specified date, time, and place must be set by a
majority vote of the Commissioners present, prior to the regular motion to adjourn.
D. Special Meetings
Special meetings of the Planning Commission may be held at any time upon the call
of the Chair or by a majority of the voting members of the Commission or upon
request of the City Council following at least 24 hours notice to each member of the
Commission and to the press. The time and place of the special meeting shall be
determined by the .convening authority. At least 24 hours prior to the scheduled
special meeting, the Community Development staff shall post a notice of the meeting
on the City of San Rafael public hearing board, the City website and at the prescribed
location of the meeting.
E. Annual Meeting
The Annual Meeting of the Planning Commission will be held at the first meeting of
the calendar year. The meeting will be devoted to- the election of a Chair and
Vice -Chair for the ensuing year and any other business scheduled by the
Commission.
F. Study Sessions/Workshops
1, The Commission may be convened as a whole or as a committee of the whole in
the same manner as prescribed for the calling of a special meeting for the purpose
of holding a study session, provided that no official action shall be taken and no
quorum shall be required.
2. Such meetings shall be open to the public.
G. Notification
Public Hearings and Discussion Items'- Notice of the time, place/ items to be
considered and action pending shall be given in accordance with the requirements of
the City Code and State Law.
H. Agenda
1. An agenda for each meeting of the Commission shall be prepared by the
Community Development Director or staff in consultation with the Chair.
2. A staff report . shall be prepared for each item and -distributed to the Planning
Commission and made available to the public a minimum of 72 hours prior to a
regular meeting.
3. A copy of the agenda shall be posted in City Hall 72 hours before a regular
meeting.
4. Items not appearing on the agenda cannot be acted upon or discussed by the
Commission. However, the Commission may take action under the following
circumstances:
a. If the Commission finds, by majority vote, that an emergency situation must be
addressed. An "emergency situation" is limited to work stoppages and
crippling disasters;
b. If by a two-thirds vote (or a unanimous vote if two-thirds of the members are
not present), there is a need to take immediate action and the need for action
came to the attention of the Commission and staff after the agenda was posted.
Prior to discussing such items, the Commission shall publicly identify the item
and shall provide the public an opportunity to provide comment on the item.
5. Members of the public may address the Commission on any agenda item, and
may, at the beginning of the meeting, address the Commission on any issue that is
not listed on the agenda, provided that the issue is within the jurisdiction and
powers of the Planning Commission.
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I. Order of Meetings
1. The Order of business shall be as follows:
a. The Chair shall take the chair at the hour appointed for the meeting and shall
immediately call the meeting to order.
b. The Chair shall lead a pledge of allegiance.
c. Members present and absent shall be recorded.
d. The order of the agenda shall be approved as submitted or revised by a
majority vote of the Commissioners present.
e. The public shall be advised of the procedures to be followed in the meeting
including the protocol and time frames for public comment.
f Any member of the audience may comment on any matter which is not listed
on the agenda.
g. The minutes of any preceding meeting shall be submitted for review and
approval by a majority vote of the Commissioners present at that preceding
meeting.
h. The Commission shall then hear and act upon those proposals scheduled for
consideration or public hearing.
i. Director's Report.
j. Commission Communications.
k. Adjournment.
2. Presentation or Hearing of Proposals
The following shall be the order of procedure for hearings/discussion items
concerning planning and zoning matters:
a. The Chair shall announce the subject of the public hearing/discussion item, as
noticed.
b. If a request is made for continuance, a motion may be made and voted upon to
continue the public hearing to a definite time and date (noticing not required)
or a time and date to be determined (re -noticing required).
c. Order of Speaking.
The order of speaking shall be as follows:
1. Staff provides a report on the project and summarizes its compliance with
San Rafael's General Plan; compliance with State laws and the City Code,
the status of environmental review, and the staff recommendation for
action(s) by the Commission.
2. The public hearing is opened.
3. The applicant makes a presentation to the Commission.
4. The public speaks to the Commission.
5. The Commission obtains final facts or clarification from staff, the
applicant or the public.
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6. The public hearing is closed.
7. The matter is returned to the Commission for discussion and action.
d. Rules of Testimony
The rules of testimony shall be as follows:
1. Upon opening the public hearing, the Chair shall invite the public to speak
by inviting each speaker (one -at -a -time) to approach the podium. On large
or controversial projects where many people wish to provide public
testimony, the Chair may request that speaker cards be filled -out and
submitted.
2. Persons presenting testimony to the Commission are requested to identify
themselves by name and place of residence.
3. Persons presenting testimony to the Commission shall be limited to three
(3) minutes for their presentation. An extension of this time limit may be
granted at the Chair's discretion.
4. If there are numerous people in the audience who wish to participate on
the issue and it is known that all represent the same opinion, a
spokesperson should be selected to speak for the entire group. At the
Chair's discretion, the spokesperson may be granted additional time
beyond the three (3) minute limit for his or her presentation.
5. To avoid unnecessary repetitive evidence, the Chair may limit the number
of speakers or the time on a particular issue.
6. Irrelevant, defamatory, or disruptive comments will be ruled out of order.
7. No person shall address the Commission without first securing the
permission of the Chair.
8. All comments shall be addressed to the Commission. All questions shall
be made or directed through the Chair.
e. Applicant. Presentations
Applicant presentations shall comply with the guidelines developed by the
Planning Commission. Applicants shall be limited to a maximum of ten (10)
minutes for their presentation, inclusive of all members of the applicant's
team (if applicable). An extension of this time limit may be granted at the
Chair's discretion.
J. Motions
1. A motion to adjourn shall always be in order except during roll call.
2. The Chair of the Commission, or other presiding officer, may make and
second motions and debate from the Chair subject only to such limitations of
debate as are imposed on all members of the Commission.
K. Voting
1. Voting Requirements
a. A quorum shall consist of four members.
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b. The affirmative vote of a majority of the quorum present is necessary for
the Commission to take action on all matters other than those listed under
Section c below.
c. Certain votes of the Commission require a majority vote of the entire
Commission (4 votes) to carry. These are:
■ Adoption or amendment of a General Plan or any part thereof.
■ Adoption or amendment to any Neighborhood or Specific Plan or any
part thereof.
■ Adoption or amendment to the Zoning Ordinance of the City Code or
amendment thereto.
■ Adoption or amendment to a site-specific master plan for a Planned
Development (PD) District.
■ Other actions as required under federal or state law. (These will be
dealt with as they arise.)
d. When a member of the Commission abstains from voting on any matter
before it because of a potential conflict of interest, because the
Commissioner does not believe he/she can be objective, or because the
Commissioner was absent at any previous hearing on an item, said vote
shall not constitute nor be considered as either a vote in favor of or
opposition to the matter being considered. Abstentions shall 'not be
allowed for any other reason.
e. A tie vote shall be recorded as a failure of action to pass. A tie vote on a
motion defeats the motion.
2. Roll Call Vote
Any Commissioner, the applicant or an appellant can request a roll call vote.
3. Recording of Votes
The minutes of the ,Commission's proceedings shall show the vote of each
member, including whether they were absent, abstained from voting, or failed
to vote on a matter considered.
4. Disqualification from Voting
A member shall disqualify himself/herself from voting in accordance with the
State Political Reform Act and other applicable state law. When a member is
disqualified, he/she shall state, prior to the considerations of such matter by
the Commission that the member is disqualifying himself/herself due to a
possible conflict of interest and shall then leave the voting area,
III. Review and Amendments Procedure
A. These Rules of Procedure shall be reviewed at the Annual Meeting of each year. On
an ad hoc basis, the chair may appoint a subcommittee to review these rules prior to
the meeting. The review subcommittee shall present their recommendations for
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amending or not amending these rules. Minor changes may be brought forward by
staff for the Commission's consideration.
B. In addition, these Rules of Procedure may be amended at any meeting of the Planning
Commission by a majority of the membership of the Commission provided that notice
of the proposed amendment is received by each Commissioner not less than 5 days
prior to said meeting.
(Approved May 9, 2000. Revised February 26, 2002, December 14, 2004, May 29, 2007, January 27, 2009)
R:\Comm Development- Resource\Planning\Planning Commission\Rules and Procedures\2009 Review\PC Rules and Procedures
- Adopted Revisions 1-27-09.doc