Belvedere will rework second-unit incentive to comply with state laws

Belvedere will revamp a proposed second-unit program to encourage new affordable housing after an Ark inquiry revealed the city’s current rules likely break state law, while the planned changes were poised to inadvertently exacerbate the problem.

The ordinance, unanimously recommended by the Planning Commission on May 21, sought to create an incentive that lets homeowners of lots larger than 15,000 square feet have an additional second unit if they agree to deed restrict it to no more than 30% of a low-income Marin household’s monthly income.

Current city laws allow an accessory dwelling unit, whether attached or detached, to be 850 square feet, or 1,000 with a second bedroom. The incentive would increase the allowance to 1,000 and 1,200 square feet, respectively. At the meeting, commissioners also added a recommendation that junior accessory units be eligible for an incentive, to 600 square feet from 500.

Officials say a version of that plan is still the goal.

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