Accessory Dwelling Units in the Wetlands and Resource Conservation (WRC) District
In the city of Concord, the Wetlands and Resource Conservation (WRC) District is classified as a Community Land District, and accessory dwelling units are not listed as an allowable land use within this district. Because accessory dwelling units are not identified as a permitted or conditionally permitted use in the WRC District, the establishment of such units is prohibited in this zoning district.
Permissibility of Accessory Dwelling Units in the WRC District
The city of Concord zoning code organizes land uses by district in Division II. The WRC District, which stands for "Wetlands and Resource Conservation," is categorized under the Community Land Districts [Section 18.15.020].
According to the allowed uses and permit requirements for Community Land Districts, the zoning code identifies specific uses that may be established within these districts [Section 18.60.020]. Accessory dwelling units are not included in the table of allowed uses for the WRC District [Table 18.60.020]. Furthermore, any land use that is not listed in the provided tables and is determined by the planning division to not be included in the land use classifications is not allowed within the city [Section 18.25.030].
Definitions and General Requirements
An "accessory dwelling unit" is defined as an attached, interior, or detached dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on the same lot as a proposed or existing principal dwelling [Section 18.20.030].
In the city of Concord, the establishment of any new land use or structure must comply with the requirements of the development code and the specific zoning district [Section 18.10.030]. Because the WRC District is specifically reserved for wetlands and resource conservation to ensure the protection of wildlife, hydrological, and biological resources, development is highly restricted, and residential accessory structures are not permitted [Section 18.60.010].
Sections Cited
- Section 18.10.030: Applicability
- Section 18.15.020: Zoning map and districts
- Section 18.20.030: Definitions
- Section 18.25.030: Allowable land uses and permit requirements
- Section 18.60.010: Purpose
- Section 18.60.020: Community land districts – Allowed uses and permit requirements
- Table 18.60.020: Community Land Districts - Allowed Uses and Permit Requirements