Council unanimously adopts ordinance allowing detached accessory dwelling units to meet state mandate

The City Council approved Ordinance 26-04 to amend Section 17.48.030 of the Washington Terrace City Code so the city complies with a state requirement to allow detached accessory dwelling units (DADUs).

Building Official Tyler Seaman told the council the city’s prior code permitted internal accessory dwelling units but state law requires allowing detached units. Seaman said the ordinance includes a minimum size: "650 square feet is the smallest allowed for the detached unit." He added that DADUs must comply with all building-code requirements including egress and fire safety and that meeting those standards may make very small units difficult to construct.

Council Member Michael Thomas moved to approve the ordinance; Council Member Jeff West seconded the motion. The measure passed unanimously (5-0) by roll-call vote. Seaman said fee levels for permits are not yet finalized, calling fee-setting a staff analysis that will involve the city manager and public works director. The ordinance must be adopted by Oct. 1, 2026 to meet the state timeline.