Part of the mission of Boneyard Studios is to support changes to DC zoning and building codes to allow higher density, affordable housing in the District. Currently there are some excellent proposals on the table to allow for accessory dwelling units (typically carriage houses and basement apartments) in low-density parts of town. The accessory dwelling proposals will:
- Allow one accessory dwelling in the house or an existing separate building in single-family and low density row house zones
- Not change higher-density row house and apartment zones
- Require the owner to live in the house at the same time
- Limit the overall size of the dwelling to 25% the size of the main one
There are also progressive proposals on parking, corner stores, and simplification of the zoning categories.
The Coalition for Smarter Growth has put together a great fact sheet on the issues. There is unfortunately some misinformation on the impact of the proposed changes, so it’s important that the DC City Council members hear from residents in support of zoning update. So read up and if you’re a DC resident contact your City Council members with an easy on-line form to voice your support for a progressive DC zoning update.