REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Action on Introduction of an Ordinance to Amend Chapters 18.14, 18.16, 18.18, and 18.20 of the Zoning Code, to allow Accessory Dwelling Units in Multi-family Zoning Districts
Report
BACKGROUND
As required by state law, the proposed ordinance would amend the City's Zoning Code to allow accessory dwelling units in all multi-family residential zoning districts when properties contain or propose a single family dwelling. The amendments to the Zoning Code were considered at a noticed public hearing by the Planning Commission on October 24, 2018. The proposal was approved unanimously by the Planning Commission. There were no public comments at the meeting. The Planning Commission meeting minutes, staff report, related documents, and draft ordinance are attached to this report.
DISCUSSION
The City of Santa Clara Zoning Code contains four multi-family zoning districts that allow single-family residential dwellings as permitted uses. The City's 2017 zoning amendments, which established more lenient standards for the construction of accessory dwelling units, were applicable to only two zoning districts: R1-8L Single-Family, Larger Lot Area Zoning Districts (Chapter 18.10) and R1-6L Single-Family Zoning Districts (Chapter 18.12).
The proposed ordinance would amend the City's Zoning Code to allow accessory dwelling units in all multi-family residential zoning districts when properties contain or propose a single family dwelling. The four Zoning Code Chapters that will be amended are: 18.14 (R2-7L Duplex Zoning Districts), 18.16 (R3-18D Low Density Multiple-Dwelling Zoning Districts), 18.18 (R3-25D Moderate-Density Multiple-Dwelling Zoning Districts), and 18.20 (R3-36D Medium-Density Multiple-Dwelling Zoning Districts). These amendments will bring the remainder of the Zoning Code into compliance with State law.
The proposed ordinance amendments are consistent with the Housing Element of the General Plan, in that the proposed amendments...
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