Norwalk’s proposed ADU changes would let some homeowners combine ADUs with SB 9 projects, build ADUs above detached garages or carports, and add an ADU on a lot with two detached homes. The changes are not final: on October 14 the Planning Commission recommended them 5 to 0, subject to revised conditions, and the City Council decides.
What the city is deciding
The Planning Commission was asked on October 14 to recommend zoning code changes to the City Council. The city says the ADU update responds to findings from the state housing department. The same item would revise rules for low barrier navigation centers, a type of homeless shelter, and extend density bonus incentives to special needs housing.
Where and who it affects
The ADU provisions affect properties covered by Norwalk’s ADU rules, including lots with SB 9 projects and lots with two existing or proposed detached homes. The shelter provisions concern certain commercial and office zones where multifamily homes are already permitted.
What it could mean for your property
The review deadline for a completed ADU application would change from 60 business days to 60 days. If the city does not approve or deny it within that time, the application would be deemed approved.
Rules that prevent combining an ADU with an SB 9 housing project or urban lot split would be removed. Rules barring new ADUs above detached garages or carports on single family lots would also be removed.
Staff says ADUs measuring 800 square feet and under would not be subject to lot coverage or floor area ratio limits. A new detached ADU remains limited to 850 square feet for a studio or one bedroom, or 1,000 square feet for more than one bedroom.
Only a junior ADU that shares a bathroom with the main home would carry an owner occupancy requirement. Short term rentals would remain prohibited, and an ADU generally could not be sold separately.
Questions to ask before you buy or build
- Would the lot qualify for both an SB 9 project and an ADU?
- Could an ADU be built above an existing detached garage or carport?
- Would a proposed junior ADU share a bathroom with the main home?
- When would the 60 day review clock begin for the application?
What happens next
The Planning Commission recommended approval on October 14 by a 5 to 0 vote, subject to revised conditions, the city’s published synopsis shows; the revisions are not published. The City Council will make the final decision at a separately noticed hearing, but the documents do not give a date. Written comments may be sent to [email protected].