Accessory Dwelling Units

An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is defined as an attached or detached residential dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons.

An ADU must include permanent living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation provisions on lots that are zoned to allow single-family or multi-family residential uses that include an existing or proposed dwelling. An ADU can also include an efficiency unit, or a manufactured home (on a permanent foundation only).

Here are a few basic ADU variations:

Detached: The unit is separated from the primary structure.
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Attached: The unit is attached to the primary structure.
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Converted Existing Space: Space on the lot of the primary residence converted into an independent living unit. Learn more

JADU: Existing space (500 square feet or less) contained entirely within an existing or proposed single-family residence. Learn more

What an ADU is not:

A house/travel trailer (fifth wheel, motorized recreation vehicle, camper, tent trailer)
A tiny home that is on wheels - and not on a fixed foundation
An uninsulated garden shed

Questions?

Visit our What to Know (FAQ) page to learn more. If you have additional questions, email PlanningEmail@moval.org.