The Salinas Planning Commission on Nov. 19 recommended that the City Council adopt Zoning Code Amendment 2025‑001 to rescind section 37‑50.25 of the Salinas Municipal Code (Accessory Dwelling Units), modify ADU definitions and development regulations, and apply applicable state ADU law to processing and construction of ADUs. Senior planner Thomas Veil said the State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) notified the city that the current local ADU ordinance is not consistent with state law and recommended rescission to avoid public confusion.

Staff rationale and timing: Veil told the commission that state ADU law has changed frequently in recent years and that rescission would allow the city to rely on state requirements until the city adopts an updated local ordinance. Staff recommended the Planning Commission find the amendment categorically exempt from CEQA under the city’s adopted guidelines (section 15.305) and forward the ordinance to City Council. Staff said a new, compliant ADU ordinance will be considered as part of a 2026 zoning code update.

Public comment and enforcement concerns: A public commenter identified in the record as Jose raised enforcement concerns, saying many ADUs appear to have been built without permits in some neighborhoods and urging stronger code enforcement. Commissioners acknowledged permitting and enforcement capacity challenges and noted the city recently hired additional code enforcement staff.

Vote and next steps: A motion to recommend rescission and related code updates passed on roll call; staff will schedule the item for City Council consideration. If adopted by Council, the rescission will replace the inconsistent local provisions with state ADU requirements until a new local ordinance is adopted.