carportsin progress

The carports item is a proposed zoning text amendmentText amendmentA change to the words of the zoning ordinance itself, citywide, rather than to one property's district. being considered as part of a broader bundle of miscellaneous amendments to the city's zoning ordinanceZoningThe city rules that say what can be built where: uses, height, density, setbacks, and parking, by district., alongside topics such as affordable housing on tax-exempt properties, noise standards, and SB 388 compliance.

The core issue is an inconsistency in the existing ordinanceOrdinanceA local law. Ordinances amend the city code and need a public hearing and two readings.: the accessory structure standards already permit detached carports (similar to detached garages), but the zoning ordinanceZoningThe city rules that say what can be built where: uses, height, density, setbacks, and parking, by district.'s definition of "carport" in Section 9.3 classifies a carport only as an addition — i.e., something attached to a house. The proposed amendment would correct this by clarifying that carports can be either a structure or an addition, moving some definitional detail into a line item in the permitted encroachments table specifically addressing attached carports, and making explicit that detached carports are allowed and are generally regulated like garages. The amendment was characterized as largely housekeeping or custodial in nature.

It was discussed in a Planning CommissionPlanning CommissionThe appointed body that reviews land-use applications and plans first and sends a recommendation to City Council, which makes the final decision. work sessionWork sessionA meeting for discussion and briefing only. No formal votes are taken, but positions get set here. on September 14, 2026, and again in a City Council work session on September 22, 2026; no formal action has been taken at either body as of that date.