Senate Bill 247 aims to facilitate the construction and use of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) across Wisconsin by mandating that political subdivisions with zoning ordinances permit at least one ADU on each parcel designated for single-family or multi-family residential use. The bill outlines specific prohibitions for these subdivisions, including the inability to charge fees beyond standard building permit fees for ADUs, impose unique dimensional or design requirements that do not apply to single-family homes, enforce additional parking requirements based on the presence of an ADU, or require separate utility connections for ADUs. Furthermore, the bill allows for size limitations on ADUs, stating they cannot exceed 75% of the existing single-family dwelling's square footage on the same parcel.
Additionally, the bill declares that any covenants, restrictions, or conditions in deeds that prevent or unreasonably limit the construction or use of ADUs are void and unenforceable. Homeowners associations are also restricted from imposing such limitations, except when necessary for public health and safety. The legislation reflects a legislative intent to counteract private laws that inhibit the development of ADUs, thereby promoting housing availability and flexibility within residential areas.