Brooklyn Park, Minnesota Development News

City Council Tables Accessory Dwelling Unit Ordinance for Further Discussion

The City Council is considering an ordinance to permit accessory dwelling units (ADUs) within the city. The proposed ordinance, which has undergone review by the Planning Commission and public comment, would allow ADUs in R1, R2, and R3 districts, with specific regulations on size, height, and number of units per property. Council members raised questions regarding inspection capacity, permit fees, potential impacts on property taxes and homesteading, and the possibility of restricting ADUs to owner-occupied properties or limiting the number of rental licenses. Staff indicated that while inspections are feasible, permit fees would follow standard building code fee structures. The possibility of tying ADU permits to existing code compliance issues was also discussed, with the city attorney noting it's legally permissible but needs precise definition. Several council members expressed a need for further discussion and a work session to address outstanding questions before moving forward with the ordinance. Consequently, the council voted to table the first reading of the ordinance to allow for a dedicated work session.