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File 2002006 Page 4 Building Code requirements, it would be prohibitively expensive to provide an accessory unit within a portion of an existing home, and 2) so an accessory unit would not substantially alter the single-family character and appearance of a home. Allowing the units to be arranged in a side- by-side manner or within a portion of the principal-unit structure could result in a home that has the appearance of a townhome-which would not be compatible with the character of a single- family neighborhood. The size limitation would help to ensure that the accessory dwelling unit remains incidental to the principal dwelling on the lot, and that the single-family character of the neighborhood is maintained. To further ensure that the single-family character is maintained, the exterior design of the accessory unit would be required to incorporate similar architectural style and materials as the principal unit on the lot. For the same reason, if the unit is located above a detached garage, the regulations would not allow it to exceed 15 feet in height-which is the maximum height allowed for detached garages. To ensure sufficient off-street parking, the regulations would require a minimum of two off-street spaces that would not conflict with the spaces associated with the principal unit. Allowing accessory dwelling units within single-family homes could help to address the City's housing needs as follows: . Accessory units could provide housing options for elderly parents or on-site caregivers to provide services or companionship in exchange for rent. This arrangement could be beneficial for seniors as well as for families requiring nanny services and separate nanny quarters. . Accessory units could allow college students to stay near their parents or with an umelated homeowner, with a greater level of independence. . Accessory units could create affordable housing units for umelated renters. Homeowners would be able to rent accessory units to obtain additional income from rent and provide an affordable rental unit for the tenant. As a household's need's change, accessory units could be reincorporated for primary resident-owner's needs. As the supply of land available for rental properties is limited, allowing accessory units on single-family residential lots would provide flexible rental properties without consuming additional land. Local examples of other communities that have addressed rental housing needs by allowing accessory dwelling units in single family residential districts include the Cities of Cottage Grove, Minnetonka, and Stillwater. The City of Cottage Grove has allowed accessory apartments by conditional use permit for roughly 15 years. The Cottage Grove Planner stated that they have received and approved only 12 requests for accessory apartments to date. The Cottage Grove Planner added that accessory apartments have not been very popular because most homeowners do not want to share their property with someone else, nor do they want the responsibility of being a landlord. The City of Minnetonka has also allowed accessory apartments by conditional use permit for roughly 15 years. The Minnetonka Planner stated that they receive and approve one or two requests per year, and have approved roughly 20 accessory apartments to date. Minnetonka supports the use as a form of affordable housing. Minnetonka requires that exterior 1'7