Chula Vista studying plan to allow extra detached ADU on single-family properties

The Chula Vista Planning Commission rejected a proposal that would allow homeowners of existing single-family properties to build up to two detached accessory dwelling units, or ADUs. 

Last week, the commission voted to have staff conduct more research on the proposal’s impacts. The matter will be sent back to the Chula Vista City Council for consideration. 

The change in regulation could significantly reshape the city’s approach to areas historically populated by single family residences, but would be expected to help address a growing need for additional housing units. 

Currently, many properties with single-family homes have potential for four housing units. Properties can have a main home, an ADU built inside or attached to it, one in an existing structure that has been converted and one new detached ADU. The proposal would add an additional allowable detached unit. 

In a presentation to the Planning Commission, a city staff member said the proposal could trigger impacts from other existing housing and environmental laws that have not been fully studied. Staff recommended more research on those impacts.

Commissioners also expressed concern over what they see as a lack of available information. They also referred to increased traffic, additional need for city services and concerns over changing the characteristics of the city. They also repeatedly acknowledged the need for more housing units.

The conversation on the subject has been ongoing. The proposal initially came up during a June 11 City Council meeting when Deputy Mayor Alfonso Gonzalez made a motion to allow single-family dwellings to build an additional detached ADU. The council approved the change and later voted to send the matter back to the Planning Commission. 

The Planning Commission is expected to report its findings to the city council.