Austin The city will consider reducing regulatory barriers to building accessory dwelling units after an Austin City Council proposal passed June 12. By a 4-3 vote, council agreed to initiate plans that will potentially eliminate parking requirements for adding secondary dwellings of up to 500 square feet to a property.

Councilman Chris Riley, who sponsored the initiative, argued that secondary units will help provide more affordable housing options and serve as a source of income for longtime residents faced with mounting property tax bills.

"Frankly, when it comes down to it, the real issue is that right now I'm more concerned about housing people than storing cars," Riley said, suggesting council allow for more garage-style apartments. "We really have an issue of providing access of housing to people who want to live in the city."

Councilman Mike Martinez, the item's co-sponsor, stressed this passage only starts a conversation about changing the code. City staff will create an amendment to the code, and council will review the proposal before it becomes law.