PASSED CITY COUNCIL (4-1) ON MAY 16, 2022

The new ordinance became effective on June 16, 2022.

An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a smaller, independent residential dwelling unit located on the same lot as a stand-alone (i.e., detached) single-family home. Whitefish is currently rewriting its ADU code to make it easier for homeowners to build this vital missing-middle housing type. Learn more about ADUs here.

The changes include:

1. Creation of a limited deed-restriction program. Rent to a local for at least 5 years in exchange for no additional parking requirements, the ability to build an 800 square foot ADU (instead of 600 square feet), and potential reimbursement of impact fees.

2. ADUs can be built by right in all zoning districts. No time-consuming public hearings are required and the process is more straightforward for homeowners.

3. Elimination of owner-occupancy requirements. The ADU can be long-term rented even if the primary home is not occupied full-time by the owner.

4. Multiple form factors permitted - attached, detached, above a garage, ground level, etc.

See our recommended testimony below.

SOURCES: NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF HOME BUILDERS AND U.S. CENSUS BUREAU (AVERAGE HOUSEHOLD SIZES)

ADUs are vital housing.

An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a smaller, independent residential dwelling unit located on the same lot as a stand-alone (i.e., detached) single-family home. ADUs provide a specific type of housing: small homes in desirable neighborhoods. Their size is key to their inherent affordability - there just isn’t anything comparable in Whitefish if you’re a renter.

The benefits of ADUs extend beyond renters to homeowners as well. Not only do ADUs blend seamlessly into neighborhoods, but they provide homeowners with another income stream to pay mortgages and property taxes, allow for multigenerational living, and allow older residents to downsize without leaving their homes or neighborhoods.

The rule changes passed the 1st reading on May 2, 2022. We fully support them. There is a high risk of this ordinance being removed from the consent agenda (2nd reading) on May 16, 2022, to be changed - and made worse for housing outcomes. Advocacy in the form of letters and in-person testimony is still needed prior to and during the May 16 meeting.