This bill amends existing laws regarding the regulation of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) by counties and cities in Iowa. It mandates that a minimum of one ADU must be allowed on the same lot as a single-family residence within zoning districts where such residences are permitted. The bill clarifies that the size of an ADU cannot exceed 1,000 square feet or 50% of the primary residence's size, with the calculation excluding unfinished basements. Additionally, it removes the previous condition that limited ADUs based on state historic building code restrictions, instead allowing for regulation only if the historic preservation commission determines that the ADU would be incongruous with the historical aspects of the district.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a definition of "size" for the purposes of ADUs, specifying it as the gross living area of the primary dwelling unit while excluding garages, decks, and unheated porches. This change aims to streamline the regulations surrounding ADUs and ensure that they can be constructed in a manner that respects both zoning laws and historical preservation efforts.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 331.301, 499C.1, 364.3, 103A.43