Council adopts optional 20‑foot front setback that allows 42‑foot height for 3+ unit developments

The Select Committee adopted amendment 112, an optional development standard that allows property owners in neighborhood residential zones to choose to keep a 20‑foot front setback and build up to 42 feet in height for developments that include three or more principal dwelling units.

Sponsor Chair Hollingsworth said the change responds to public testimony requesting more front‑yard space for landscaping, trees and neighborhood character, while still allowing additional housing capacity if owners opt in to an alternative (greater height). Council member Strauss supported the amendment, and Council member Rivera described it as an example of compromise that could encourage tree retention and open space while allowing density.

Vote: the amendment passed 8–0 and will be incorporated into the committee’s amendment packet for council bill 120993.

What it means: the option is voluntary for property owners and is intended to create more landscaped front yards and space for trees where developers choose that configuration while preserving opportunities for increased housing where desired.

Speakers quoted appeared at the Sept. 18 Select Committee meeting.