Planning Commission to Discuss Accessory Apartments

Accessory Apartments are typically defined as a second dwelling unit in an occupied single-family home. While they are ubiquitous throughout the city, there has never been an ordinance in place with the County or City formally allowing or regulating them. The Planning Commission and City Council are considering a new proposed ordinance that would make them permissible in both R-1 and R-2 zones in Cottonwood Heights under certain conditions. This proposed new ordinance, states that Accessory Apartments shall only be allowed in owner-occupied single-family dwellings. They can be created; over a garage attached to the main dwelling unit, inside the home through an internal conversion of the house unit, by an addition to the house, or next to or over garages and accessory buildings that are substantially attached to the main dwelling unit by covered walkways, breezeways, and covered porches. There are also some limitations on such apartments to ensure occupant safety and specific requirements for construction.

The Planning Commission is considering recommending an ordinance to the City Council that will establish specific regulations and requirements on existing apartments and a permit process for new ones in eligible locations. Public comment is requested by the Planning Commission at an October 1 commission meeting to be held in the City Council Chambers at 1265 East Fort Union Blvd., #300, beginning at 7:00 PM.

This discussion is preliminary in nature as the proposed ordinance is yet to be finalized. Citizen input will provide direction to the Planning Commission and the City Council regarding this issue.  Click here for the proposed ordinance..