07-30-2025, 06:21 PM
I'm reminded of another inane code requirement in Santa Cruz: you are allowed a pantry "of any size" off the kitchen ... provided that it has no HVAC. Builders would commonly run ducts under these, then cut the vents in after final inspection, to create a lovely dining room. Of course "everyone knows" this.
I read a property can have a legal farm unit.
HCC 19-2 defines a "farm dwelling" as "a single-family dwelling located on and used in direct connection with a farm, or where the agricultural activity provides income to the occupant(s) of the dwelling", including "employee housing for that farm". It is explicitly not an "ohana dwelling" or "guest house". Multiple "farm dwellings" are permissible subject to "a farm dwelling agreement for each additional farm dwelling" and "an agricultural development and use program, farm plan or other evidence of the applicant’s continual agricultural productivity or farming operation".
Note that 25-5-77(b) states "one single-family dwelling or one farm dwelling shall be permitted on any building site". Ag-zoned land subdivided before 1976 allows a primary dwelling "by right", so it's really not clear how this section is applied.
The lack of "affordable housing" should come as no surprise to anyone who understands the requirements imposed by the almighty Code. I'm guessing your "elected representatives" aren't familiar with all these regulations.
I read a property can have a legal farm unit.
HCC 19-2 defines a "farm dwelling" as "a single-family dwelling located on and used in direct connection with a farm, or where the agricultural activity provides income to the occupant(s) of the dwelling", including "employee housing for that farm". It is explicitly not an "ohana dwelling" or "guest house". Multiple "farm dwellings" are permissible subject to "a farm dwelling agreement for each additional farm dwelling" and "an agricultural development and use program, farm plan or other evidence of the applicant’s continual agricultural productivity or farming operation".
Note that 25-5-77(b) states "one single-family dwelling or one farm dwelling shall be permitted on any building site". Ag-zoned land subdivided before 1976 allows a primary dwelling "by right", so it's really not clear how this section is applied.
The lack of "affordable housing" should come as no surprise to anyone who understands the requirements imposed by the almighty Code. I'm guessing your "elected representatives" aren't familiar with all these regulations.