Sitka may rewrite its rules for second homes on residential lots

Sitka may change its rules for accessory dwelling units, though the draft ordinance does not say how.

The Planning Commission meets at 6 pm Monday at Harrigan Centennial Hall in a special session called for one item: discussion and review of a zoning code amendment on accessory dwelling units. No vote is scheduled.

An accessory dwelling unit is a second, complete dwelling on the same lot as a single-family home, with its own kitchen, sleeping space and sanitation. Sitka allows one per parcel in its R-1 and R-2 residential districts, and only on lots served by a publicly maintained right-of-way. Lots reached by access easements are excluded. The units must be long-term rentals: nothing shorter than 90 consecutive days, and no short-term vacation rentals or bed and breakfasts.

The code says the units are meant to use existing housing stock "while preserving the appearance and character of single-family neighborhoods," and to add affordable long-term rental options.

Sitka has been circling this for years. The Sitka Comprehensive Plan 2030, developed through a public process from December 2015 to May 2018, called for zoning changes including reduced lot sizes and streamlined accessory dwelling unit permits.

Other Alaska communities allow them more broadly. Wrangell permits them across its residential districts. Anchorage allows an additional home in all residential and commercial zones, including on multifamily buildings.

The commission is the advisory body on zoning amendments. Any change would go to the Assembly.

Residents can speak at Monday's meeting, with testimony limited to three minutes per person unless the chair sets other limits.