SNOHOMISH — In a bid to address the city’s housing affordability crisis, the council approved a comprehensive overhaul of regulations governing Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) at its Sept. 17 meeting.
The proposed amendments aim to increase affordable housing options, align with state legislation and encourage infill development.
The proposed regulations for ADUs in Snohomish aim to enhance housing availability and affordability by allowing up to two ADUs per lot containing a principal dwelling unit.
As part of the discussion, the council removed a proposal to charge water and sewer connection fees for self-standing “Detached” Accessory Dwelling Units in a 5-1 vote.
The council’s vote was in line with a recommendation from the city’s planning commission earlier this year to not charge the fees.
The city’s public works director proposed hook up fees for ADUs to share improvement costs, which on the contrary was rejected by the Planning Commission. The city’s proposal was an $8,400 total connection fee package for an ADU, half the connection fee amount for a standard house. The commission had recommended not requiring separate utility connection unless the unit is sold independently.
“Assessing the hook up fee at the time of the build is not fair and builds a barrier for the person who wants to build an ADU,” said Planning Commissioner Terry Lippincott at the Sept. 17 council meeting before the council’s vote.
Parking requirements have a possibility of posing difficulties, particularly in lots with limited space. Additionally, potential community opposition and logistical hurdles in processing permits and inspections may hinder the adoption of ADUs.
“Penalizing low-income people for the homes they want to put in their backyard is not good,” speaker Morgan Davis said in opposition to utility connection fees.
To address these challenges, the city council considered different strategies. Offering incentives or subsidies for property owners who develop ADUs, providing clear guidelines and educational resources aim in helping property owners navigate the regulatory landscape and manage initial costs.
The city’s approach aligns with the Comprehensive Plan’s emphasis on maintaining neighborhood character while promoting sustainable growth.
The city’s ADU rulebook is to respond to state legislation, specifically House Bill 1337, from 2023, which aims to increase affordable housing options statewide. The City Council’s amendments ensure Snohomish’s regulations comply with state requirements.
