Additional ADUs can help create more affordable housing 

The City of Bremerton recently proposed changing rules for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) to help create more housing to meet the need across the City. The proposal would permit up to two accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on the same lot as a single-family house. Currently, the City code limits each lot to one ADU. 

Additional ADUs can help provide more housing alternatives. Allowing up to two ADUs per parcel is one of Mayor Wheeler’s initiatives to increase affordable housing in Bremerton. 

“As I stated in December, when the City Council heard the City’s proposal, the goal is to allow more ADUs so they can help fill the gap in housing,” said Mayor Wheeler. “The more options that are available, the more it tends to increase affordability. Right now, more of our citizens can’t afford rent or to stay in other types of residences. We really have to address this issue with some solutions like ADUs.”

Reports and surveys have found ADUs provide free and ultra-low rent options for family, friends and elderly loved ones as well as generating rental income for homeowners to cover their mortgage, among many other benefits. To see the full list, please see Mayor Wheeler’s message here. 

The City Council is seeking public feedback on the proposal to permit up to two ADUs per parcel. Under this proposal, if a second ADU were to be added to a property, an additional parking space would need to be provided. The Council is requesting feedback regarding other potential code changes for ADUs as well, including: 

• Allowing a 2nd ADU only in certain areas of the City;
• Allowing a 2nd ADU only if the owner of the parcel lives on site;
• Allowing a 2nd ADU only if affordability requirements are met;
• Allowing a 2nd ADU without any parking requirements;
• Prohibiting all ADUs from being used as short-term rentals

To provide your comments, please submit them to the City Council at City.Council@ci.bremerton.wa.us, 360-473-5280 or Department of Community Development at Isaac.Gloor@ci.bremerton.wa.us, 360-473-5281.

Residents may also attend the virtual City Council meeting, and provide testimony before the council, on Wednesday, February 17, 2021 at 5:30 p.m. To join the meeting and view the agenda and packet, please visit BremertonWA.gov/691/Council-Meetings.

“I encourage residents to submit their public comments on the City’s ADU proposal or attend the City Council meeting on Wed., Feb. 17,” said Mayor Wheeler.