Senate File 592 amends the Code of Iowa to require counties and cities to permit at least one accessory dwelling unit (ADU) on the same lot as a single-family residence. The bill outlines specific conditions for the construction and use of ADUs, including compliance with building regulations, size limitations (not exceeding 1,000 square feet or 50% of the main residence), and restrictions on local ordinances that may impose more stringent requirements than those applicable to single-family residences. Additionally, it specifies that if a manufactured or mobile home is used as an ADU, it must be converted to real property and assessed for real estate taxes.

The legislation also prohibits various limitations that local governments might impose on ADUs, such as more restrictive placement or appearance requirements, additional parking mandates, and occupancy restrictions based on owner residency or relationships between occupants. Furthermore, it mandates that permit applications for ADUs be approved without discretionary review, ensuring a streamlined process similar to that of single-family residence approvals. Any conflicting local regulations are deemed void, although more permissive local ordinances are allowed.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 331.301, 103A.43
Enrolled: 331.301, 103A.43