HomeMy WebLinkAboutStaff Report 2305-1508 City Council
Staff Report
Report Type: CONSENT CALENDAR
Lead Department: City Clerk
Meeting Date: June 5, 2023
Report #:2305-1508
TITLE
SECOND READING: Amending Title 18 (Zoning) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code to Amend
Requirements Relating to Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (FIRST
READING: May 15, 2023, PASSED 7-0)
BACKGROUND
This was heard by the City Council on May 15, 2023, for a first reading and was approved 7-0. It
is now before you for a second reading. In preparing the ordinance for second reading, staff
identified a few typos and minor revisions regarding the preparation of tree disclosure reports
that were discussed in the May 15, 2023, staff report but left out of the ordinance as a result of
a technical error. These have been corrected in the attached ordinance. In addition, staff have
added a series of findings and declarations in response to an informal conversation with HCD
MOTION: Council Member Lauing moved, seconded by Mayor Kou to approve section A and
modify language in section 18.09.040(k)(1) Except on corner lots where feasible.
MOTION PASSED: 7-0 MOTION:
Vice Mayor Stone moved, seconded by Council Member Burt to approve sections B, C, D and E
and adopt the draft ordinance amending Palo Alto Municipal Code Title 18 (Zoning) to amend
regulations for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs), and
Accessory Structures, including provision to respond to direction from the department of
Housing and Community Development (HCD) and refer D back to the PTC for further
refinement and discussion the following:
• Create incentives including exempting or reducing impact fees and plan review fees
from affordable units
• Develop incentives for ADUs to be used for housing
MOTION PASSED: 7-0
Item 11
Item 11 Staff Report
Item 11: Staff Report Pg. 1 Packet Pg. 104 of 406
AMENDMENT TO MOTION: Council Member Tanaka, seconded by Council Member
LythcottHaims moved to add to the motion: exempt basement floor area from ADUs and JADUs
MOTION FAILED: 2-5 Lauing, Veenker, Stone, Burt, Kou no
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: Ordinance Amending Title 18 of the PAMC to Amend Requirements Relating to
Accessory Dwelling Units and Jr Accessory Dwelling Units
APPROVED BY:
Mahealani Ah Yun
Item 11
Item 11 Staff Report
Item 11: Staff Report Pg. 2 Packet Pg. 105 of 406
*NOT YET APPROVED*
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Ordinance No. _____
Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Amending Title 18 (Zoning) of
the Palo Alto Municipal Code to Amend Requirements Relating to Accessory
Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units
The Council of the City of Palo Alto does ORDAIN as follows:
SECTION 1. Findings and Declarations.
A. The City of Palo Alto has been a leader in promoting the construction of JADUs, including an
allowance for reduced setbacks and additional floor area for existing or proposed single
family homes to accommodate a proposed JADU.
B. The City's efforts to promote JADU production using these incentives have been extremely
effective. In 2020, the City received one permit application and issued one permit for a
JADU. Following adoption of these incentives, in 2021, the City received 25 permit
applications and issued nine permits for JADUs. In 2022, the City received 27 permit
applications and issued 24 permits for JADUs. In the first five months of 2023, the City has
received 15 permit applications and issued nine permits for JADUs.
C. California Government Code Section 65852.22 defines a JADU as a dwelling unit that is
"contained entirely within a single-family residence."
D. Consistent with this provision of the Government Code, where this ordinance refers to the
setback "for a JADU," this refers to the setback that applies to the portion of a single family
home that contains or will contain a JADU. Where this ordinance provides a square footage
exemption "for a JADU," this refers to a square footage exemption for the portion of a
single family home that contains or will contain a JADU.
SECTION 2. Chapter 18.09 (Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units) of
Title 18 (Zoning) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code (“PAMC”) is amended to read as follows
(additions underlined and deletions struck-through):
18.09.010 Purpose
The intent of this Chapter is to provide regulations to accommodate accessory and
junior accessory dwelling units (ADU/JADU), in order to provide for variety to the city's
housing stock and additional affordable housing opportunities. These units shall be
separate, self-contained living units, with separate entrances from the main residence,
whether attached or detached. The standards below are provided to minimize the
impacts of units on nearby residents and throughout the city, and to assure that the
size and location of such dwellings is compatible with the existing or proposed
Item 11
Attachment A - Ordinance
Amending Title 18 of the
PAMC to Amend
Requirements Relating to
Accessory Dwelling Units
and Jr Accessory Dwelling
Units
Item 11: Staff Report Pg. 3 Packet Pg. 106 of 406
*NOT YET APPROVED*
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residence(s) on the site and with other structures in the area.
18.09.020 Applicable Zoning Districts
The establishment of an accessory dwelling unit is permitted in zoning districts when
single-family or multi-family residential is a permitted land use. The development of a
single-family home, ADU, and/or a JADU on a lot that allows for single-family
development shall not be considered a multifamily development pursuant to PAMC
Section 18.04.030, nor shall they require Architectural Review pursuant to other
sections of Chapter 18.
18.09.030 Units Exempt from Generally Applicable Local Regulations
(a) Government Code section 65852.2, subdivision (e) provides that certain units shall
be approved notwithstanding state or local regulations that may otherwise apply.
The following types of units shall be governed by the standards in this section. In the
event of a conflict between this section and Government Code section 65852.2,
subdivision (e), the Government Code shall prevail.
i. An ADU and JADU within the existing space of a single-family dwelling or an
ADU within the existing space of an accessory structure (i.e. conversion
without substantial addition).
ii. An ADU and JADU within the proposed space of a single-family dwelling.
iii. A detached, new construction ADU on a lot with a proposed or existing
single-family dwelling, provided the ADU does not exceed 800 square feet,
sixteen feet in height, or four-foot side and rear (i.e. interior) setbacks.
iv. ADUs created by conversion of portions of existing multi-family dwellings not
used as livable space.
v. Up to two detached ADUs on a lot with an existing multi-family dwelling.
(b) The Development Standards for units governed by this section are summarized in
Table 1. Regulations set forth in section 18.09.040 do not apply to units created
under 18.09.030. The minimum and maximum sizes indicated in Table 1 do not
prohibit units that are greater than 800 square feet. These sizes simply serve to
distinguish when a unit transitions from regulations set forth in Table 1 and section
18.09.030 to regulations set forth in Table 2 and section 18.09.040.
//
Item 11
Attachment A - Ordinance
Amending Title 18 of the
PAMC to Amend
Requirements Relating to
Accessory Dwelling Units
and Jr Accessory Dwelling
Units
Item 11: Staff Report Pg. 4 Packet Pg. 107 of 406
*NOT YET APPROVED*
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Table 1: Development Standards for Units Described in Government Code Section 65852.2(e)
Single-Family Multi-Family
Conversion of
Space Within
the Existing
Space of a
Single-Family
Home or
Accessory
Structure
Construction of
Attached ADU
Within the
Proposed Space
of a Single-
Family Home
New
Construction of
Detached ADU
Conversion of
Non-Habitable
Space Within
Existing Multi-
family Dwelling
Structure
Conversion or
Construction of
Detached(4)
ADU
Number of
Units
Allowed
1 ADU and 1 JADU
25% of the
existing units
(at least one)
2
Minimum
size(1) 150 sf
Maximum
size(1) N/A2 800 sf N/A
Setbacks
N/A, if condition
is sufficient for
fire and safety
Underlying
zone standard
for Single
Family Home
(ADU must be
within
allowable space
of Single-Family
Home)
4 feet from side
and rear lot
lines;
underlying
zoning for front
setback
N/A
4 feet from
side and rear
lot lines;
underlying
zoning for front
setback
Daylight
Plane N/A N/A
Maximum
Height(3) N/A 16(5) N/A 16(5)(6)
Parking None
State Law
Reference 65852.2(e)(1)(A) 65852.2(e)(1)(A
)
65852.2(e)(1)(B
)
65852.2(e)(1)(C
)
65852.2(e)(1)(
D)
(1) Lofts where the height from the floor level to the underside of the rafter or finished roof surface
is 5' or greater shall count towards the unit’s floor area.
(2) New construction must be consistent with allowable space (e.g. FAR, Lot Coverage) of a single
family residence, except that up to 150 sf may be added for the purpose of ingress and egress
only, without regard to underlying zone standards.
(3) Units built in a flood zone are not entitled to any height extensions granted to the primary
dwelling.
(4) Units must be detached from existing primary dwellings but may be attached to each other.
(5) A height of 18 feet for a detached ADU on a lot with an existing or proposed single family or
multifamily dwelling unit that is within one-half of one mile walking distance of a major transit
stop or a high-quality transit corridor, as those terms are defined in Section 21155 of the Public
Resources Code. An additional two feet in height shall be provided to accommodate a roof pitch
on an ADU that is aligned with the roof pitch of the primary dwelling unit.
Item 11
Attachment A - Ordinance
Amending Title 18 of the
PAMC to Amend
Requirements Relating to
Accessory Dwelling Units
and Jr Accessory Dwelling
Units
Item 11: Staff Report Pg. 5 Packet Pg. 108 of 406
*NOT YET APPROVED*
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(6) A height of 18 feet for a detached ADU on a lot with an existing or proposed multifamily,
multistory dwelling.
(c) Development standards stated elsewhere in this Section or Title 18, including
standards related to FAR, lot coverage, and privacy, are not applicable to ADUs or
JADUs that qualify for approval under this section. When there is an ADU or JADU
attached to an existing or proposed primary dwelling, the shared wall between
these units shall contribute to the maximum allowable Floor Area, Lot Coverage, and
Maximum House Size of the primary unit. For a single-family home, this
measurement shall be taken to the outside stud wall in accordance with Section
18.04.030(a)(65)(D). For a multi-family dwelling, this measurement shall be taken to
the outside surface of exterior walls in accordance with Section 18.04.030(a)(65)(B)
and (C).
(d) The establishment of accessory dwelling units and junior accessory dwelling units
pursuant to this section shall not be conditioned on the correction of non-
conforming zoning conditions; provided, however, that nothing in this section shall
limit the authority of the Chief Building Official to require correction of building
standards relating to health and safety.
(e) The installation of fire sprinklers shall not be required in an accessory dwelling unit if
sprinklers are not required for the primary residence. Nothing in this section shall
preclude the Fire Marshal from accepting fire sprinklers as an alternative means of
compliance with generally applicable fire protection requirements.
(f) Rental of any unit created pursuant to this section shall be for a term of 30 days or
more.
(g) Attached units shall have independent exterior access from a proposed or existing
single-family dwelling. Except for JADUs, attached units shall not have an interior
access point to the primary dwelling (e.g. hotel door or other similar
feature/appurtenance).
(h) Conversion of an existing accessory structure pursuant to Government Code section
65852.2(e)(1)(A) may include reconstruction in-place of a non-conforming structure,
so long as the renovation of reconstruction does not increase the degree of non-
compliance, such as increased height, envelope, or further intrusion into required
setbacks. Any portion of an ADU that exceeds the envelope of the existing accessory
structure shall be subject to Section 18.09.040.
(i) Street addresses shall be assigned to all units prior to building permit final to assist in
emergency response.
(j) The unit shall not be sold separately from the primary residence.
Item 11
Attachment A - Ordinance
Amending Title 18 of the
PAMC to Amend
Requirements Relating to
Accessory Dwelling Units
and Jr Accessory Dwelling
Units
Item 11: Staff Report Pg. 6 Packet Pg. 109 of 406
*NOT YET APPROVED*
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(k) Replacement parking is not required when a garage, carport, or covered parking
structure is converted to, or demolished in conjunction with the construction of, an
ADU.
(l) JADUs shall comply with the requirements of Section 18.09.050.
(m) Notwithstanding any contrary provision of Chapter 8.10, to the extent the City’s
application checklist requires a tree disclosure statement, it may be completed by
the property owner.
18.09.040 Units Subject to Local Standards
(a) This section shall govern applications for ADUs and JADUs that do not qualify for
approval under section 18.09.030 and for which the City may impose local standards
pursuant to Government Code section 65852.2, subdivisions (a) through (d). Nothing
in this section shall be interpreted to prohibit an ADU of up to 800 square feet, at
the heights stated in Table 2, with a four foot side and rear setbacks.
(b) The Development Standards for units governed by this section are provided in Table
2. These regulations do not limit the height of existing structures converted into
ADU/JADUs unless the envelope of the building is proposed to be modified beyond
any existing legal, non-conforming condition.
Table 2: All other Units
Attached Detached JADU
Number of Units
Allowed1 1 1
Minimum size 150 sf
Maximum size
900 sf (1,000 sf for two
or more bedrooms);
no more than 50% of
the size of the single-
family home
900 sf (1,000 sf for
two or more
bedrooms)
500 sf
Setbacks 4 feet from side and rear lot lines;
underlying zone standard for front setback
Daylight Plane
Underlying zone
standard per
footnote (7)
N/A Underlying zone
standard
Initial Height 8 feet at lot line
Angle 45 degrees
Maximum Height3 Underlying zone
Item 11
Attachment A - Ordinance
Amending Title 18 of the
PAMC to Amend
Requirements Relating to
Accessory Dwelling Units
and Jr Accessory Dwelling
Units
Item 11: Staff Report Pg. 7 Packet Pg. 110 of 406
*NOT YET APPROVED*
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Res. Estate (RE) 30 feet standard
Open Space (OS) 25 feet
All other eligible
zones 16 feet(5)(6)(7)
Parking None
Square Footage
Exemption when in
conjunction with a
single family home(4)
Up to 800 sf(4) Up to 500 sf(4)
(1) An attached or detached ADU may be built in conjunction with a JADU on a lot with an existing
or proposed single family home. One attached or detached ADU may be built in conjunction
with an existing or proposed multifamily building.
(2) Lofts where the height from the floor level to the underside of the rafter or finished roof surface
is 5' or greater shall count towards the unit’s floor area.
(3) Units built in a flood zone are not entitled to any height extensions granted to the primary
dwelling.
(4) Lots with both an ADU and a JADU may exempt a maximum combined total of 800 square feet
of the ADU and JADU from FAR, Lot Coverage, and Maximum House Size calculations. Any
square footage that exceeds this exemption shall contribute to the FAR, Lot Coverage, and (if
attached) Maximum House Size calculations for the subject property. This exemption is not
afforded to lots with existing or proposed multifamily dwellings.
(5) A height of 18 feet for a detached ADU on a lot with an existing or proposed single family or
multifamily dwelling unit that is within one-half of one mile walking distance of a major transit
stop or a high-quality transit corridor, as those terms are defined in Section 21155 of the Public
Resources Code. An additional two feet in height shall be provided to accommodate a roof pitch
on an ADU that is aligned with the roof pitch of the primary dwelling unit.
(6) A height of 18 feet for a detached ADU on a lot with an existing or proposed multifamily,
multistory dwelling.
(7) A height of 25 feet or the height limitation in the underlying zone district that applies to the
primary dwelling, whichever is lower, for an ADU that is attached to a primary dwelling. These
ADUs shall not exceed two stories in height.
(c) A single-family dwelling shall exist on the lot or shall be constructed on the lot in
conjunction with the construction of an ADU/JADU.
(d) ADU and/or JADU square footage shall not be included in FAR, Lot Coverage, and
Maximum House Size calculations for a lot with an existing or proposed single family
home, up to the amounts stated in Table 2. ADU and/or JADU square footage in
excess of the exemptions provided in Table 2 shall be included in FAR, Lot Coverage,
and Maximum House Size calculations for the lot.
(d)(e) When there is an ADU or JADU attached to an existing or proposed primary
dwelling, the shared wall between these units shall contribute to the maximum
allowable Floor Area, Lot Coverage, and Maximum House Size of the primary unit.
Item 11
Attachment A - Ordinance
Amending Title 18 of the
PAMC to Amend
Requirements Relating to
Accessory Dwelling Units
and Jr Accessory Dwelling
Units
Item 11: Staff Report Pg. 8 Packet Pg. 111 of 406
*NOT YET APPROVED*
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For a single-family home, this measurement shall be taken to the outside stud wall
in accordance with Section 18.04.030(a)(65)(D). For a multi-family dwelling, this
measurement shall be taken to the outside surface of exterior walls in accordance
with Section 18.04.030(a)(65)(B) and (C).
(e)(f) Attached units shall have independent exterior access from a proposed or
existing single-family dwelling. Except for JADUs, attached units shall not have an
interior access point to the primary dwelling (e.g. hotel door or other similar
feature/appurtenance).
(f)(g) No protected tree shall be removed for the purpose of establishing an accessory
dwelling unit except in accordance with Chapter 8.10. Notwithstanding any contrary
provision of Chapter 8.10, to the extent the City’s application checklist requires a
tree disclosure statement, it may be completed by the property owner.
(g)(h) For properties listed in the Palo Alto Historic Inventory, the California Register of
Historical Resources, the National Register of Historic Places, or considered a historic
resource after completion of a historic resource evaluation, compliance with the
appropriate Secretary of Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic
Properties shall be required.
(h)(i) Noise-producing equipment such as air conditioners, water heaters, and similar
service equipment that exclusively serves an ADU/JADU may be located anywhere
on the site, provided they maintain the underlying front yard setback requirements
of the property and, if the property is a corner lot, a 10-foot street-side setback.
shall be located outside of the setbacks for the ADU/JADU. All such equipment shall
be insulated and housed, except that the Director may permit installation without
housing and insulation, provided that a combination of technical noise
specifications, location of equipment, and/or other screening or buffering will assure
compliance with the city’s Noise Ordinance at the nearest property line. All service
equipment must meet the city’s Noise Ordinance in Chapter 9.10 of the Municipal
Code.
(i)(j) Setbacks
(1) Detached units shall maintain a minimum three-foot distance from the
primary unit, measured from the exterior walls of structures.
(2) No A basement or other subterranean portion that serves of an ADU/JADU
shall may encroach into a setback required for the primary dwelling provided
the following conditions are met:.
(A) Newly constructed basement walls are no closer than four feet to an
adjacent interior side or rear property line.
Item 11
Attachment A - Ordinance
Amending Title 18 of the
PAMC to Amend
Requirements Relating to
Accessory Dwelling Units
and Jr Accessory Dwelling
Units
Item 11: Staff Report Pg. 9 Packet Pg. 112 of 406
*NOT YET APPROVED*
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(B) A new lightwell associated with a basement shall not be placed
closer than four feet to an adjacent interior property line. When
visible from the right of way, these facilities shall be screened from
view with vegetation.
(C) The new basement shall not negatively impact tree roots on the
subject property or on adjacent lots such that it would require a
protected tree to be removed or cause the protected tree to die.
(D) Habitable ADU/JADU basements shall contribute toward the unit’s
total allowable floor area. Any floor area in excess of the exemptions
provided in this Section shall contribute to the total allowable limits
for the site.
(3) Projections, including but not limited to windows, doors, mechanical
equipment, venting or exhaust systems, are not permitted to encroach into
the required setbacks, with the exception of a roof eave of up to 2 feet.
(3)(4) For corner lots developed as a single-family home only, when an existing
or proposed primary dwelling unit is expanded or constructed simultaneously
with the construction of a new ADU/JADU, all structures may be built to a 10-
foot street-side setback and a 16-foot front yard setback, regardless of the
presence of a special setback, unless a fire or life-safety regulation requires a
greater setback.
(4)(5) When an existing, legal, nonconforming structure is converted or
reconstructed to create an ADU/JADU, any portion of the ADU/JADU that is
in the same location and falls within the building envelope of the original
structure shall not be subject to the development standards stated in this
Section. Any portion of the ADU/JADU that is in a different location or
exceeds the envelope of the original structure shall comply with the
development standards stated in this Section.
(5)(6) Notwithstanding the development standards stated in Table 2 and
paragraph (5) above, when an existing, legal, non-conforming structure is
converted in-place to an ADU/JADU, the envelope of the structure may be
modified to encroach further into a setback or daylight plane as follows:
(A) The height of the existing structure may be increased by no more
than one linear foot in height commensurate to the existing roofline
of the structure provided the height of the addition does not exceed
12 feet from grade. The roofline shall not be changed to a style other
than what currently exists on the structure.
(B) Each non-conforming wall may be expanded by no more than six
inches in thickness based on its existing location and configuration, as
Item 11
Attachment A - Ordinance
Amending Title 18 of the
PAMC to Amend
Requirements Relating to
Accessory Dwelling Units
and Jr Accessory Dwelling
Units
Item 11: Staff Report Pg. 10 Packet Pg. 113 of 406
*NOT YET APPROVED*
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measured to exterior surface of the material, to provide for greater
insulation and energy requirements provided that a minimum of one
foot is maintained between the addition and an adjacent interior
property line. An existing wall of a structure that does not currently
have a separation of one foot from a parallel property line shall not
be expanded outward.
(C) All other additions not specified here shall follow the standard
setbacks for the ADU/JADU identified in Table 2.
(j)(k) Design
(1) Except on corner lots, it shall be encouraged but not required that where
feasible, the unit shall not have an entranceway facing the same lot line
(property line) as the entranceway to the main dwelling unit unless the
entranceway to the accessory unit is located in the rear half of the lot.
Exterior staircases to second floor units shall be located toward the interior
side or rear yard of the property.
(2) Privacy
(A) Second story doors and decks shall not face a neighboring dwelling
unit property line. Second story decks and balconies shall utilize
screening barriers to prevent views into towards an adjacent interior
property lineies. These barriers shall provide be a minimum five-foot,
six-inch height, screen wall from the floor level of the deck or balcony
and shall not include perforations of any kind that would allow
visibility between properties.
(B) Second story w Windows on a second floor, loft, or equivalent
elevated space, excluding those required for egress, shall have a five-
foot sill height as measured from the second-finished floor level, or
utilize obscured opaque glazing on the entirety of the window when
facing any window that faces an adjacent interior property lineies.
Second story e Egress windows shall utilize obscured opaque glazing
on the entirety of the windows which face that face adjacent interior
properties.
(C) Second story w Windows on a second finished floor, loft, or
equivalent elevated space, shall be offset from neighbor’s windows to
maximize privacy.
(D) Where feasible, egress windows on the first and second finished floor
of an ADU or JADU shall not face towards an adjacent interior
property line. If this is not feasible, then these windows shall utilize
opaque glazing on the whole window.
(E) If the first finished floor of an ADU or JADU is two feet or more above
grade, then first floor windows shall include the following:
Item 11
Attachment A - Ordinance
Amending Title 18 of the
PAMC to Amend
Requirements Relating to
Accessory Dwelling Units
and Jr Accessory Dwelling
Units
Item 11: Staff Report Pg. 11 Packet Pg. 114 of 406
*NOT YET APPROVED*
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i. Non-egress, operable windows facing an adjacent interior
property line shall have a windowsill(s) that start five feet
above the first finished floor for the unit;
ii. Non-egress, non-operable windows facing an adjacent interior
property line shall have the lower half of window(s) (minimum
of five feet above the first finished floor) utilize opaque
glazing.
(F) Where feasible, the use of skylights (whether operable or not) shall
be used in lieu of operable windows that face adjacent interior
properties
(G) No exterior lighting shall be mounted above seven feet. All lighting
mounted on walls shall be directed downwards and shall not direct
light towards adjacent interior property lines. Any ground lighting
shall not direct light upwards to the building or sky.
(k)(l) Parking
(1) Replacement parking is not required when a garage, carport, or covered
parking structure is converted to, or demolished in conjunction with the
construction of, an ADU.
(2) Replacement parking is required when an existing attached garage, carport,
or covered parking structure is converted to a JADU or when a required,
existing, uncovered parking space is expanded into an ADU/JADU. These
replacement spaces may be provided as uncovered spaces in any
configuration on the lot including within the front or street side yard setback
for the property.
(A) The Director shall have the authority to modify required replacement
parking spaces by up to one foot in width and length upon finding
that the reduction is necessary to accommodate parking in a location
otherwise allowed under this code and is not detrimental to public
health, safety or the general welfare.
(B) Existing front and street side yard driveways may be enlarged to the
minimum extent necessary to comply with the replacement parking
requirement above. Existing curb cuts shall not be altered except
when necessary to promote public health, safety or the general
welfare.
(3) When parking is provided, the unit shall have street access from a driveway
in common with the main residence in order to prevent new curb cuts,
excessive paving, and elimination of street trees, unless separate driveway
Item 11
Attachment A - Ordinance
Amending Title 18 of the
PAMC to Amend
Requirements Relating to
Accessory Dwelling Units
and Jr Accessory Dwelling
Units
Item 11: Staff Report Pg. 12 Packet Pg. 115 of 406
*NOT YET APPROVED*
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access will result in fewer environmental impacts such as paving, grading or
tree removal.
(3)(4) When a single-family dwelling unit is permitted simultaneously with the
construction of new ADU/JADUs, the primary unit’s covered parking
requirements identified in Chapter 18.10 and 18.12 do not need to be
provided. Two uncovered parking spaces shall be provided in any
configuration on the lot including within the front or street-side setback for
the property.
(4)(5) If covered parking for a unit is provided in any district, the maximum size of
the covered parking area for the accessory dwelling unit is 220 square feet.
This space shall count towards the total floor area for the site but does not
contribute to the maximum size of the unit unless attached to the unit. Any
attached garage shall not have an interior access point to the ADU/JADU (e.g.
hotel door or other similar feature/appurtenance).
(l)(m) Miscellaneous requirements
(1) Street addresses shall be assigned to all units prior to building permit final to
assist in emergency response.
(2) The unit shall not be sold separately from the primary residence.
(3) Rental of any unit created pursuant to this section shall be for a term of 30
days or more.
(4) The installation of fire sprinklers shall not be required in an accessory
dwelling unit if sprinklers are not required for the primary residence. Nothing
in this section shall preclude the Fire Marshal from accepting fire sprinklers
as an alternative means of compliance with generally applicable fire
protection requirements.
18.09.050 Additional Requirements for JADUs
(a) A junior accessory dwelling unit may only be created on a lot in a single-family
residential zone with an existing or proposed single family residence. A junior
accessory dwelling unit shall be attached to or created within the walls of an existing
or proposed primary dwelling.
(b) The junior accessory dwelling unit shall include an efficiency kitchen, requiring the
following components: A cooking facility with appliances, and; food preparation
counter and storage cabinets that are of reasonable size in relation to the size of the
junior accessory dwelling unit.
Item 11
Attachment A - Ordinance
Amending Title 18 of the
PAMC to Amend
Requirements Relating to
Accessory Dwelling Units
and Jr Accessory Dwelling
Units
Item 11: Staff Report Pg. 13 Packet Pg. 116 of 406
*NOT YET APPROVED*
12
0160107_20230525_ay16
i. A cooking facility with appliances shall mean, at minimum a one burner
installed range, an oven or convection microwave, a 10 cubic foot refrigerator
and freezer combination unit, and a sink that facilitates hot and cold water.
ii. A food preparation counter and storage cabinets shall be of reasonable size in
relation to a JADU if they provide counter space equal to a minimum 24-inch
depth and 36-inch length.
ii.iii. JADUs may share sanitation facilities (bathrooms, laundry facilities, etc.) with
the primary unit. In this instance, the floor area and lot coverage associated
with shared space shall count towards the primary unit’s maximum allowances
only. The combined sanitation facilities between the units shall include
shower, toilet, and sink fixtures at a minimum and shall conform to the
minimum requirements specified in the Building Code
(c) For the purposes of any fire or life protection ordinance or regulation or for the
purposes of providing service for water, sewer, or power, a junior accessory dwelling
unit shall not be considered a separate or new unit.
(d) The owner of a parcel proposed for a junior accessory dwelling unit shall occupy as a
primary residence either the primary dwelling or the junior accessory dwelling.
Owner-occupancy is not required if the owner is a governmental agency, land trust, or
housing organization.
(e) Prior to the issuance of a building permit for a junior accessory dwelling unit, the
owner shall record a deed restriction in a form approved by the city that includes a
prohibition on the sale of the junior accessory dwelling unit separate from the sale of
the single-family residence, requires owner-occupancy consistent with subsection (d)
above, does not permit short-term rentals, and restricts the size and attributes of the
junior dwelling unit to those that conform with this section.
18.09.060 Affordable ADU/JADU Pilot Program
(a) This section shall govern applications for ADUs and JADUs that will be deed restricted for
a minimum of 8 years to provide affordable rental units for households earning up to 80%
of area median income. These units shall be exempt from all development impact fees,
regardless of size, up to a maximum of $50,000 unit and a Citywide total of $400,000 per
calendar year. To participate in this program, units shall follow the development
standards in section 18.09.040 unless otherwise stated here.
(b) The City’s affordable housing administrator shall income qualify potential tenants prior to
issuing a permit for an affordable ADU/JADU. The property owner shall be responsible for
Item 11
Attachment A - Ordinance
Amending Title 18 of the
PAMC to Amend
Requirements Relating to
Accessory Dwelling Units
and Jr Accessory Dwelling
Units
Item 11: Staff Report Pg. 14 Packet Pg. 117 of 406
*NOT YET APPROVED*
13
0160107_20230525_ay16
paying the City’s housing administrator to cover the cost associated with documenting a
potential tenants income level as well as annually recertifying the tenant’s income.
SECTION 3. Subsections (a)(4) and (a)(65) of Section 18.04.030 (Definitions) of Chapter 18.04
(Definitions) of Title 18 (Zoning) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code (“PAMC”) is amended to read:
[. . .]
(4) “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 ADU bathroom shall include a
shower, toilet, and sink fixture at a minimum and shall conform to the minimum
requirements specified in the Building Code. An accessory dwelling unit also includes the
following:
[. . .]
(65) “Gross Floor Area” is defined as follows:
[. . .]
(D) Low Density Residential Exclusions: In the RE and R-1 single-family residence
districts and in the R-2 and RMD two-family residence districts, “gross floor area”
shall not include the following:
[. . .]
(ix) Accessory structures equal to or less than one hundred and twenty square
feet in area shall not contribute to floor area provided that any attached
porches, patios, or similar features are substantially open;
(E) In all districts, gross floor area shall be calculated to the nearest 1000th decimal
point and represented and rounded on plans to the nearest 100th decimal point
(e.g. 123.456 sf shall be rounded to 123.46 sf). Standard rounding shall apply
such that a number of four or less shall be rounded down and a number of five
or more shall be rounded up.
SECTION 4. Subsections (b)(5) of Section 18.10.080 (Accessory Uses and Facilities) of Chapter
18.10 (Low-Density Residential) of Title 18 (Zoning) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code (“PAMC”) is
amended to read:
[. . .]
Item 11
Attachment A - Ordinance
Amending Title 18 of the
PAMC to Amend
Requirements Relating to
Accessory Dwelling Units
and Jr Accessory Dwelling
Units
Item 11: Staff Report Pg. 15 Packet Pg. 118 of 406
*NOT YET APPROVED*
14
0160107_20230525_ay16
(5) When located within a required interior yard as permitted by this section, no such
No accessory building shall have more than two plumbing fixtures. Accessory buildings
shall not be allowed to be turned into habitable space nor shall these structures be
allowed to have showers (indoor or outdoor), gas lines, washer/dryers, and/or cooking
facilities to be provided inside or attached to the structure, unless the structure is
proposed as an ADU/JADU that satisfies all requirements of the Palo Alto Municipal
Code.
[. . .]
SECTION 5. Subsections (b)(5) of Section 18.12.080 (Accessory Uses and Facilities) of Chapter
18.12 (Single-Family Residential District) of Title 18 (Zoning) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code
(“PAMC”) is amended to read:
[. . .]
(5) No such accessory building greater than 200 square feet in size shall have more than
two plumbing fixtures. Accessory buildings shall not be allowed to be turned into
habitable space nor shall these structures be allowed to have showers (indoor or
outdoor), gas lines, washer/dryers, and/or cooking facilities to be provided inside or
attached to the structure, unless the structure is proposed as an ADU/JADU that
satisfies all requirements of the Palo Alto Municipal Code.
[. . .]
SECTION 6. Subsection (b)(5) of 18.40.050 (Location and Use of Accessory Buildings) of
Chapter 18.40 (General Standards and Exceptions) of Title 18 (Zoning) of the Palo Alto
Municipal Code (“PAMC”) is amended to read:
[. . .]
(5) No such accessory building shall have more than two plumbing fixtures. Accessory
buildings shall not be allowed to be turned into habitable space nor shall these
structures be allowed to have showers (indoor or outdoor), gas lines, washer/dryers,
and/or cooking facilities to be provided inside or attached to the structure, unless the
structure is proposed as an ADU/JADU that satisfies all requirements of the Palo Alto
Municipal Code.
[. . .]
SECTION 7. Subsection (a) of Section 18.10.090 (Basements) of Chapter 18.10 (Low Density
Residential) of Title 18 (Zoning) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code (“PAMC”) is amended to read:
[. . .]
Item 11
Attachment A - Ordinance
Amending Title 18 of the
PAMC to Amend
Requirements Relating to
Accessory Dwelling Units
and Jr Accessory Dwelling
Units
Item 11: Staff Report Pg. 16 Packet Pg. 119 of 406
*NOT YET APPROVED*
15
0160107_20230525_ay16
(a) Permitted Basement Area
Basements may not extend beyond the building footprint and basements are not allowed
below any portion of a structure that extends into required setbacks, except to the
extent that the main residence is permitted to extend into the rear yard setback by other
provisions of this code. Basements which serve the primary unit may not extend under
an attached ADU or JADU to the extent those secondary units utilize the bonus floor
area, lot coverage, and/or maximum house size exemptions identified in Section 18.09.
[. . .]
SECTION 8. Subsection (a) of Section 18.12.090 (Basements) of Chapter 18.13 (Single-Family
Residential District) of Title 18 (Zoning) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code (“PAMC”) is amended to
read:
[. . .]
(a) Permitted Basement Area
Basements may not extend beyond the building footprint and basements are not allowed
below any portion of a structure that extends into required setbacks, except to the
extent that the main residence is permitted to extend into the rear yard setback by other
provisions of this code. Basements which serve the primary unit may not extend under
an attached ADU or JADU to the extent those secondary units utilize the bonus floor
area, lot coverage, and/or maximum house size exemptions identified in Section 18.09.
[. . .]
SECTION 9. Any provision of the Palo Alto Municipal Code or appendices thereto inconsistent
with the provisions of this Ordinance, to the extent of such inconsistencies and no further, is
hereby repealed or modified to that extent necessary to affect the provisions of this Ordinance.
SECTION 10. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of this Ordinance is for
any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a decision of any court of competent
jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this
Ordinance. The City Council hereby declares that it would have passed this Ordinance and
each and every section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase not declared invalid or
unconstitutional without regard to whether any portion of the ordinance would be
subsequently declared invalid or unconstitutional.
SECTION 11. The Council finds that the adoption of this Ordinance is exempt from the
provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Public Resources
Code Section 21080.17 and CEQA Guidelines sections 15061(b)(3), 15301, 15302 and 15305
because it constitutes minor adjustments to the City’s zoning ordinance to implement State
law requirements related to accessory dwelling units as established in Government Code
Item 11
Attachment A - Ordinance
Amending Title 18 of the
PAMC to Amend
Requirements Relating to
Accessory Dwelling Units
and Jr Accessory Dwelling
Units
Item 11: Staff Report Pg. 17 Packet Pg. 120 of 406
*NOT YET APPROVED*
16
0160107_20230525_ay16
Section 65852.2, and these changes are also likely to result in few additional dwelling units
dispersed throughout the City. As such, it can be seen with certainty that the proposed action
will not have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment.
SECTION 12. This ordinance shall be effective on the thirty-first date after the date of its
adoption.
INTRODUCED:
PASSED:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTENTIONS:
ATTEST:
____________________________ ____________________________
City Clerk Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM: APPROVED:
____________________________ ____________________________
Assistant City Attorney City Manager
____________________________
Director of Planning and
Development Services
Item 11
Attachment A - Ordinance
Amending Title 18 of the
PAMC to Amend
Requirements Relating to
Accessory Dwelling Units
and Jr Accessory Dwelling
Units
Item 11: Staff Report Pg. 18 Packet Pg. 121 of 406