Accessory Living Quarters Proposed Amendments (R-12-01) Board of Supervisors May 22, 2012

Background  Staff directed by Board of Supervisors to change ALQ regulations.  More flexibility for size limits and potential uses.  Thresholds for Permitted vs. Special Uses.

Planning Commission – May 9, 2012  On May 9, 2012, the Planning Commission voted (7 – 0) to recommend approval of this Docket.  Commission asked for clearer language as to ALQ size limits.

Current County Requirements Maximum size up to 70% of principal dwelling, to a maximum of 850 square feet. Principal dwelling and ALQ must share address and utility meters. Prohibits commercial uses other than home occupations. Prohibits use of RVs (other than park models) as ALQs.

Current County Requirements Be on a property with an existing home. Permitted as guesthouses for short-term stays. Meet all site development standards.

Proposed Amendments 1.Size limit now increased to 75% of the principal dwelling, to a maximum of 1,100 square feet; Special Use required to exceed size limits. 2.Owner must live either in the primary dwelling or the ALQ; ALQ may be rented with Special Use approval. 3.May have separate utility meters and/or addresses in RU District, or by Special Use. 4.ALQs may include kitchens.

Commission-Requested Clarification  Current (in Exhibit A): In the absence of a special use permit issued pursuant to § , the structure may be no more than 1,100 square feet in size, including exterior wall dimensions, In the absence of a special use permit issued pursuant to § , the structure shall be no more than 75% of the size of the principal dwelling.  Proposed (Per Commission): In the absence of a special use permit issued pursuant to § , the structure may be no more than 75% of the size of the principal dwelling, to a maximum of 1,100 square feet in size, including exterior wall dimensions.

Recommendation Staff recommends approval of R