Legislation that would allow backyard cottages in Seattle could be voted on as early as Sept. 23.

During a public hearing on backyard cottages Sept. 15, council member Sally Clark said the legislation would come before the Planning, Land Use and Neighborhoods Committee and be eligible for a vote Sept. 23.

But, she said she had a feeling the committee would not be ready to vote on it that early. In which case, it would most likely be voted on Oct. 8, she said.

If passed by the committee, the legislation would go to a full council discussion and vote.

Mayor Greg Nickels has proposed legislation that would allow more homeowners the option to build backyard cottages, or "mother-in-law" units.

The city describes a backyard cottage as a small dwelling unit that is on the same lot as, but physically separate from, a single-family house.

Under the proposal, homeowners would be allowed to build backyard cottages under certain conditions. The owner must live on the premises and there would be an annual limit of 50 new such developments.

The lot must be at least 4,000 square feet in area, with minimum width and depth requirements. The principal house and backyard cottage combined must not exceed the current 35 percent lot coverage limit for single family zones.

Cottages can be no more than 800 square feet in area with a height limit of 15 to 23 foot height depending on lot width. Parking is required.

Backyard cottages are currently allowed only in southeast Seattle.