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 restriction that limited ADUs based on state historic building codes, 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, excluding garages, decks, and unheated porches. This change aims to provide clearer guidelines for the construction and regulation of ADUs, ensuring that local governments can manage these units while also preserving the character of historic areas.

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