Council tables patio-home zoning changes after debate over lofts, accessory units and zero-lot-line language

West Haven councilors reviewed proposed changes to the PH (patio home) zone on June 3 that would clarify that patio homes are single-story (maximum height 25 feet), limit accessory structures to 200 square feet, and align the zone with new state detached-ADU requirements.

Staff told the council the change's intent was to prevent two-story patio-home builds that had occurred previously where the 25-foot height limit alone had been interpreted to allow a second story. Mr. Nielson explained the recommended language: "Main buildings or dwellings and detached ADUs shall be limited to one story in height and shall not exceed a height of 25 ft," and noted the planning commission favored a clear single-story standard.

Councilors also debated whether to permit a small loft or non-bedroom bonus space above a garage. Planning commissioners had considered a limited attic/loft allowance (tied to garage footprint and a size cap) to accommodate occasional use by owners (for example, craft rooms or grandchild space) without allowing conversion to bedrooms. Members sought clearer drafting to prevent a loft from being converted into a full second story.

The council voted to table Ordinance 13-2026 so staff can add explicit "not permitted" language for attached/zero-lot-line units and refine limits on loft/bonus-room size and conversion. The item will return to a future meeting with the requested clarifications.