UNIVERSAL RESIDENTIAL DESIGN
ORDINANCE AMENDMENT
CITY COUNCIL
JUNE 3, 2025
ITEM 7 -B
BACKGROUND
• Universal Design Ordinance (AMC Section 30-18) adopted in 2017. • Implemented successfully in many projects since adoption. • Townhome projects consistently request waivers.
• Amendments proposed to align with best practices and practical difficulties of accessible townhome development.
CITY COUNCIL, JUNE 3, 2025 – UNIVERSAL DESIGN ORDINANCE 2
WHAT IS REQUIRED BY THE ORDINANCE?
Visitability
◦ Applies to 100% of units.
◦ Accessible entry to limited
accessible rooms.
Universal Design
◦ Applies to 30% of units.
◦ Accessible entry to expansive
accessible rooms.
CITY COUNCIL, JUNE 3, 2025 – UNIVERSAL DESIGN ORDINANCE 3
PURPOSE OF REVISIONS
◦ Townhomes – Waivers are common due to
sea level rise adaptation and other issues
◦ Building Official Waiver – sync waiver
language with the California Building Code
◦ Clean up References and Terminology
◦ The amendments are identified in Program
4.2 of the Housing Element
CITY COUNCIL, JUNE 3, 2025 – UNIVERSAL DESIGN ORDINANCE 4
Proposed Visitability Exemption Matrix
CITY COUNCIL, JUNE 3, 2025 – UNIVERSAL DESIGN ORDINANCE 5 150+ square feet of habitable
space on the first story
<150 square feet of habitable
space on the first story
<10 Units
No exemptions apply.
Waiver required for relief
Exemption 7.a.
Still require:
• Blocking within walls
• Accessible open space
• Optional features
requirements.
10+ Units No exemptions apply.
Waiver or Density Bonus
required for relief
Exemption 7.b.
Still require:
• Blocking within walls
• Accessible open space
• Optional features
requirements.
• 30% Universal Design
Outreach
o Planning Board – April 14, 2025.
o Commission on Persons with Disabilities – May 14, 2025. o Developer outreach throughout amendment process.
o MTC Panel with HCD – June 16, 2025.
HEARING BODY, DATE - PROJECT NAME AND NUMBER 6
RECOMMENDATION
7CITY COUNCIL, JUNE 3, 2025 – UNIVERSAL DESIGN ORDINANCE Planning Board and Commission on Persons with Disabilities recommend the City Council adopt the proposed amendments to the Universal Design Ordinance.
Next Steps:
June 3rd - City Council introduction and first reading
June 17th – 2nd reading
July 17th – Effective date of revised ordinance