Public records library › 26-555 › 17_11_2025_lfalcy@ci.moscow.id.us_Duplex thoughts code amendments.pdf

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# 17_11_2025_lfalcy@ci.moscow.id.us_Duplex thoughts code amendments.pdf
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Sent: 11/17/2025 9:36:06 AM
From: Lucy Falcy <lfalcy@ci.moscow.id.us
To: "Michael Ray" 
Cc: 
Bcc: 
Importance: Normal
Subject: Duplex thoughts code amendments
Attachments:image.png ,image[1].png ,image[2].png ,image[3].png 
Mike,
Here are thoughts on this portion of Cody's collection to compile and present as you wish.  I would dig more if 
given more time.
Lucy
 
POTENTIAL CODE AMENDMENTS FOR DUPLEXES
1.    Clarify that only one duplex is allowed per lot, without being subject to all multi-family development 
standards.  This would include density, setbacks, parking, accessibility, etc.
 Could expand this to more than one structure. In R-3, R-4, and RO zones, some lots have numerous buildings.
 
1. Clarify that only one kitchen is allowed per unit and that appliances, sinks, and accommodations that would 
support later installations are prohibited.  In short, no sinks and kitchen counters in individual units.
 Many bedrooms have attached baths and accommodations need to be made for these.  The language 
changes suggested below are rough. I appreciate that the City has gone around numerous times trying to limit 
casual kitchens.  
                     
2. Like kitchens, clarify that one washer/dryer combo is allowed per unit.  It could be that one “housekeeping unit” 
per unit is allowed.
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Yes.  How to keep them roughing in plumbing for more? 
3. Eliminate the allowance for tandem parking for duplexes.  An alternative could be that it is only allowed for a 
single duplex, as the sole use of a property.
 Some duplexes are legitimate and we wish to encourage them.  Not allowing tandem parking would require 2 
car garages that would make the units less affordable. Even multiple duplexes on a single lot (most recently 
999 Lauder- 3 duplex sets with tandem parking off of Lauder) can use this legitimately.  Maybe change it to 
allow it as tandem parking only  if the garage is one of the required spaces? 
4. Clarify that all rooms, other than common space (kitchen, living room, and bathrooms) shall be considered 
bedrooms for the purposes of parking and occupancy limits.
How to do this just for duplexes? Many houses have legitimate bonus space.  
5. Require a minimum of 150 sq. ft. of open space per unit.  This would be in addition to any required setbacks.
 Current standard is 75 sq feet and is allowed to be in setbacks.  Requiring more per unit would not help with 
the problem of misrepresenting number of units. Do not allow rooftop common space. Define common open 
space to not include parking, required sidewalks, landscaping and garbage areas. 
6. Consider requiring an increased setback for any duplex exceeding two stories in height.  For example, a 5’ 
setback for the first two stories, and 10’ for additional.
 Why not apartment complexes? Prohibit rooftop gathering areas.
7. Consider a requirement for a front door, with covered porch (establish min. size) oriented to each street 
frontage.  Specify one primary entrance allowed per unit.
 What is a primary entrance? Maybe have exterior entrances for duplexes permitted  only to common areas. 
8. In new construction, where alley access is available, require all parking come from the alley.  New driveways are 
prohibited. 
All new construction? This is a big one.
9. In new construction, establish a maximum driveway width, and require a minimum separation (7’?) between 
individual driveways.  Also, include a minimum landscaped setback between driveways and the property line. 
 Would this apply to parking off of alleys? 
10. Provide specific requirements for right-of-way improvements.  Curb, gutter, sidewalk, street widening, and alley 
paving.
Is this not already required?
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11. Consider requiring a deed restriction, similar to the approach taken with ADUs for any new duplex.
 I am not convinced that this does much good if not followed up with enforcement.
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