Salt Lake City is developing a proposal called Expanding Housing Options to change zoning rules in lower-density neighborhoods. According to a notice on the city's website, the initiative seeks to provide property owners with more options for land use, such as building smaller homes or townhomes, while maintaining neighborhood character.
The proposal aims to create gentle infill opportunities by allowing small single-family dwellings, duplexes, triplexes, fourplexes, and townhomes on smaller lots. This would involve modifying development standards for R-1, R-2, SR-1, and SR-1A districts, including changes to building heights, setbacks, lot dimensions, and lot coverage allowances. The city also proposes changes to flag lot standards.
Officials stated that the initiative does not require anyone to build new housing and does not eliminate single-family zoning or R-1, R-2, SR-1, and SR-1A districts. The proposal also does not prohibit the construction of new single-family homes, require all new construction to follow Small Lot Dwelling standards, modify the zoning map, or remove any Historic Overlay protections.
The City Council requested that the Planning Division prepare these amendments to single- and two-family zoning districts to address two primary goals: making housing more attainable and providing more housing options for families at all stages of life.
As part of the process, the City Council has the final authority to approve or deny any text amendment. The review timeline can range from 6 to 18 months and may change depending on feedback received by the Planning Division.
The project involves several phases, including background research, proposal review and public input, a Planning Commission recommendation, and finally, a City Council review and decision. Residents can participate in the process by submitting written comments, emailing the Council, or speaking during a Council meeting.
