The Salinas Planning Commission on Nov. 19 recommended that the City Council rescind the city’s local accessory dwelling unit (ADU) zoning section and rely on state ADU law until a new local ordinance can be prepared.

Staff explained the proposed zoning code amendment (2025‑001) would rescind section 37.50.250 and modify ADU definitions and development regulations to avoid conflicts with recent state law changes. Thomas Veil and housing staff said the California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) advised the city that its existing ADU ordinance was inconsistent with state law and recommended rescission to prevent public confusion while the city prepares an updated ADU ordinance as part of a 2026 zoning code update.

Commissioners asked what would happen to unpermitted ADUs; staff said rescission does not invalidate existing permitted units and that enforcement and a new compliant ordinance are part of the 2026 program. A public commenter said enforcement has been uneven in some neighborhoods and urged stronger code enforcement. "There's stuff everywhere... We reported it. Nothing was done," a resident said, describing unpermitted ADUs in Montebello and other neighborhoods.

A motion to recommend the council find the amendment exempt from CEQA (Guidelines §15305) and to adopt the ordinance rescinding the ADU section passed by roll call. Staff will schedule the amendment for City Council consideration and said a new ADU ordinance will be brought forward in phase 1 of the zoning update in 2026.