City Council to redefine living space in upcoming ordinance discussion

The Idaho Falls City Council held a work session on July 7, 2025, focusing on the development of a new definition for living space in relation to local ordinances. The council discussed the need for a broader definition that would exclude garages and storage spaces, moving away from the term "Accessory Dwelling Unit" (ADU) to avoid confusion in future regulations.

During the meeting, council members acknowledged the recommendations made by a committee regarding living space definitions. However, they indicated that other priorities influenced their decision not to adopt the committee's entire proposal. The council expressed gratitude for the committee's research and input, emphasizing that their suggestions were considered in the decision-making process.

Looking ahead, the council plans to present an updated ordinance in the next work session scheduled for later in July. They aim to incorporate the new definition of living space into this ordinance, allowing for a comprehensive discussion on both topics during the upcoming meeting. Council members expressed a desire to provide the updated ordinance details to fellow council members ahead of time, ensuring a more productive dialogue.

This meeting marks a significant step in refining local housing regulations, reflecting the council's commitment to addressing community needs while balancing various priorities. The next work session will be crucial for finalizing these definitions and advancing the ordinance.