Monster homes destroy the symmetry of long-established subdivisions. At worst, these architectural nightmares slash the value of adjoining properties.

Some people argue that the new law and temporary zoning regulations trample property rights. A more accurate view is that the new rules balance the rights of the property owner who wants to build or remodel a home in an established neighborhood with the rights of his neighbors.

The new ordinance is all about scale. It tries to maintain compatible proportions between old and new. It does not dictate style.

The city probably should test drive the new rules for a year or so and see how they work in practice. If there are problems or unintended consequences, the City Council can return to the issue.

In general, the new law limits building height to 28 feet at the peak of a roof, or 20 feet for a flat roof. That would usually accommodate a two-story house. (The current height limit is 40 feet.) However, in the Avenues and Wasatch Hollow (1300 South to 1700 South between 1900 East and 1300 East), the height standard would be 23 feet, or one story. Most existing homes in these areas are one story.

Homes and outbuildings, including garages and sheds, could together take up 40 percent of the lot. Attached garages could take up no more than half of the front face of a house. Garage size would be limited to 50 percent of the square footage of the house, but not less than 480 square feet.

If plans met these and other rules, a homeowner could get a building permit over the counter. If not, he could appeal and bring in evidence that shows his design is compatible with other homes on the street.

These new rules will not prevent remodels, or construction of larger homes for larger families on existing lots, just out-of-scale ones. Though the average house size in the United States has doubled during the past 50 years, many Salt Lakers accept smaller homes in historic neighborhoods in exchange for the shorter commutes and big trees of the city. That won't change.