The high demand for accessory dwellings sparked by the 2020 pandemic hasn’t decreased. This can be attributed to the need for affordable housing, the changing dynamics of remote work, and the desire for multigenerational living. Many states have been slow to amend their zoning laws to keep up with the demand for affordable housing. Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) zoning has been a massive topic of discussion across many states as a stop-gap solution to the housing shortage and rising rents.
Navigating zoning laws for accessory dwellings can be a complex and challenging process. Whether you’re planning to build a detached guest house, convert your basement into an apartment, or create a tiny house on your property, it’s crucial to understand and comply with your area’s zoning regulations and restrictions. In this article, we will explore zoning regulations and the steps needed to make sure you are in compliance.
Examples of accessory dwellings include:
1. Detached guest houses: These are separate structures on the same property as the main house, typically used to accommodate guests or extended family members.
2. Basement apartments: These are living spaces created within the basement of a single-family home, often with a separate entrance.
3. Garage apartments: These are living spaces built above or attached to a garage, providing additional living space on the property.
4. Converted attics: These are living spaces created by converting the attic of a single-family home into a separate dwelling unit.
5. Tiny houses: These are small, standalone houses that can be placed on a property as an accessory dwelling.
What are zoning regulations?
Zoning regulations are laws that dictate how land can be used in a specific area. These regulations are implemented to ensure that the land is used in a way that benefits the community and adheres to safety standards.
Zoning regulations are enforced by the town or city’s Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA). The ZBA is responsible for reviewing and approving applications for accessory dwellings and other types of structures or building scenarios.
Do you need to comply with zoning regulations for a simple accessory dwelling?
If you create a rental apartment in the basement of your home without a zoning permit, you may face several consequences. Firstly, you could be fined by the town’s Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) for violating the zoning regulations. The fine amount would depend on the specific rules and the severity of the violation.
Additionally, you may be required to cease using the basement apartment until you obtain the necessary permits. This means you would have to stop renting it out and potentially find alternative housing for your tenants.
On top of that, if you continue to operate the rental apartment without a zoning permit, you could face legal action from the town, which may result in further fines or even a court order to cease the use of the apartment.
What if the accessory dwelling is strictly for personal use?
Creating an accessory dwelling for personal use rather than for rental purposes may have different consequences depending on the specific zoning regulations in your town or city. While the main focus of zoning laws is often on regulating rental properties, it is still important to comply with relevant regulations to avoid potential consequences.
In some cases, zoning laws may restrict the size or type of accessory dwellings that can be constructed, regardless of whether they are used for personal use or rental purposes. Violating these restrictions could result in fines or other penalties.
It’s also worth noting that even if there are no specific restrictions on personal-use accessory dwellings, there may still be other regulations to consider, such as building codes or health and safety requirements. It’s essential to familiarize yourself with all applicable regulations and obtain any necessary permits or approvals before constructing an accessory dwelling, even if it will only be used for personal purposes.
By following the zoning laws and obtaining the proper permits, you can ensure that your accessory dwelling complies with regulations and avoids any potential consequences.
Remember, zoning regulations are put in place to ensure the safety and well-being of the community and maintain the town’s integrity. It’s always best to obtain the proper permits and follow the zoning regulations to avoid potential consequences.
Initial Steps to Understanding Zoning Restrictions
You will want to contact your local zoning department or planning office for the latest information on building an accessory dwelling unit (ADU).
Here are steps you can take to find out where you can build an ADU:
1. Contact the Zoning Department: They can provide you with the specific zoning regulations for your property and let you know if ADUs are allowed.
2. Review Zoning Ordinances: Visit your region’s official local government website and look into the specific zoning ordinances for the area where your property is located. These regulations will detail what is allowed and what is not in terms of accessory dwelling units. Once you locate the zoning ordinances, carefully read through them. Zoning ordinances usually contain detailed information about land use classifications, zoning districts, permissible land uses, building setbacks, height restrictions, parking requirements, and other regulations.
3. Check Permitted Zones: Zoning laws may specify which zones or areas allow ADUs. Find out if your property is in one of these zones.
4. Consult with a Professional: Consult with a local architect, builder, or zoning consultant. Sometimes, a zoning consultant can be called a land use attorney. They will be familiar with the local regulations and can help you navigate the process.
5. Obtain Necessary Permits: If ADUs are allowed on your property, you’ll need to obtain the necessary permits. This might include a building permit, zoning permit, or other approvals.
6. Comply with Building Codes: In addition to zoning regulations, you must ensure your ADU complies with local building codes for safety and structural integrity.
7. Consider Design and Aesthetics: Depending on the area, there may be design guidelines or aesthetic considerations you’ll need to adhere to.
Remember, it’s essential to double-check this information with the local authorities or a professional who is up-to-date with the most current zoning laws in your area.
Applying for a Zoning Permit
To build an accessory dwelling, you must first obtain a zoning permit (not the same as a building permit) from the ZBA. The application process includes submitting a detailed site plan, floor plan, and elevations of the proposed accessory dwelling. The ZBA will review the application and may require additional information or modifications before approving the permit.
The zoning permit for an accessory dwelling should be submitted by the property owner or their authorized representative. This is often done by an architect, but a builder or land use attorney acting on behalf of the property owner can also submit a permit. If you do not have an architect, consulting with a land use attorney is recommended to ensure that all the necessary documents and requirements are met during the application process.
Is a building permit the same as a zoning permit?
A building permit and a zoning permit are not the same thing. A building permit is required to ensure the construction project meets building codes and regulations. It is typically obtained from the local building department and covers aspects such as structural integrity, electrical systems, plumbing, and fire safety.
On the other hand, a zoning permit is required to ensure that the construction project complies with the specific zoning regulations of the area. It focuses on land use and zoning restrictions. In the case of building an accessory dwelling, a zoning permit is necessary to ensure that the proposed dwelling meets the zoning regulations for accessory dwellings.
The cost of a zoning permit can vary depending on the specific requirements of the municipality. It is best to contact the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) or the local building department to inquire about the current fees for obtaining a zoning permit for an accessory dwelling.
Special Use Permit
A special use permit for an accessory dwelling may be required if the proposed dwelling does not meet all zoning regulations. For example, let’s say that the zoning regulations state that accessory dwellings must be a maximum of 800 square feet, but the proposed dwelling is 900 square feet. In this case, the property owner must apply for a special use permit to seek an exception to the zoning regulation. The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) would review the application and may hold a public hearing to gather input from the community before deciding on granting the special use permit.
Seeking Professional Help
Navigating zoning laws can be a complex and time-consuming process. It’s essential to seek professional help from a local architect or land use attorney familiar with the regulations in your geographic region. They can assist with the application process and ensure that your accessary dwelling meets all zoning requirements.
Following these guidelines and seeking professional help, you can successfully navigate the zoning laws and have a great result.
Hi just read the article on zoning; awesome! I’m interested in adding an additional level/floor on a single family house and converting it into a multi family. The property is in Poughkeepsie 12603 area.