The proposed bill, if enacted, would amend current statutes regarding accessory dwelling units (ADUs) by making several significant updates. Firstly, it would remove the existing limit of 1,000 square feet for ADUs, allowing them to be up to 75% of the gross floor area of the primary single-family dwelling. Additionally, the bill would eliminate the prohibition on municipalities from setting rear or side setbacks for ADUs that are more than five feet from the property line. It would also introduce new requirements that municipalities cannot impose, such as the need for an administrative use permit for constructing an ADU, the requirement for the ADU to be located entirely within designated building spaces, and the necessity for the ADU's elevation to meet municipal criteria.

Furthermore, the deadline for municipalities to adopt development regulations for ADUs would be extended from January 1, 2025, to January 1, 2027. If municipalities fail to comply by this new deadline, ADUs would be permitted on all residentially zoned lots without restrictions. The bill also makes various technical and conforming changes to ensure clarity and consistency in the regulations surrounding ADUs.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 9-461.18