Commission clears path for balconies into setbacks and weighs roof-deck rules for multifamily vs. mixed-use

Planning staff presented proposed edits to project-design rules in Division 6, including a clarification that balconies and porches may be permitted to project into the 15-foot setback that otherwise applies to building portions with limited solar access. Libby Grange explained the provision applies when multifamily units have windows only on an interior side and that setting the building back 15 feet preserves light and air; the requested clarification would allow balconies to project into that 15-foot area but limit the projection (a commissioner asked whether a 6-foot projection was appropriate).

The commission also reviewed rules for fulfilling internal open-space requirements. Current draft language (adopted from the city’s Housing Action Plan recommendations) treats single-purpose multifamily and mixed-use developments the same and limits the percentage of required internal open space that may be satisfied by shared roof decks. Staff noted the draft allows mixed-use buildings to meet a larger share of required open space with assured roof decks than single-purpose multifamily buildings; MJB said they prefer parity between vertical and horizontal mixed-use provisions. Commissioners generally accepted clarifying edits and directed staff to return refined draft language on allowed balcony projections and the percentage of open space that roof decks can satisfy.

Ending: Staff will return specific code edits clarifying allowable balcony projections (including a numerical projection limit) and a clear rule on the percentage of required internal open space that may be satisfied by shared roof decks for different building types in the Oct. 22 public-hearing packet.