Accessory dwelling unit regulations vary but results are consistently underwhelming in the D.C. region.
"Even though accessory apartments have become legal in parts of DC, Maryland, and Virginia over the past few decades, we have yet to see a renaissance of this housing type in our region," writes Tracey Hadden Loh.
The answer to the question of why accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are so hard to deliver at scale with the stated goals of zoning codes varies by jurisdiction, according to Loh. The article includes a list of current ADU regulations in the city of Alexandria, the District of Columbia, Fairfax County, Prince George's County, Montgomery County, and Arlington County, finding substantial differences in the "state of play" for each.
However, one councilmember in Montgomery County, Maryland has proposed legislation that would make eight changes to the county's zoning code to streamline ADU permitting to help produce results more in line with intensions.
Montgomery County Councilmember Hans Riemer's bill would: "Remove the prohibition on detached accessory apartments in small lot single family zones (R-200, R-90, and R-60)," and " Remove the prohibition on detached accessory apartments on lots smaller than one acre," among the six other changes.
Riemer's zoning text amendment is getting a public hearing today in Rockville, Maryland.
FULL STORY: Accessory apartments in Montgomery County: Still looking for the secret sauce
Toward a System of Adaptive Reuse Feasibility
A relative lack of conversions from office to residential—the adaptive reuse model driving the housing market in many urban areas—makes the Washington, D.C. region a perfect place to study the factors that make or break an adaptive reuse proposal.
Want to Make a Better City? Build a Better Bus System
It's simple, according to this Washington Post column: better buses make a better city.
Zoning Reform Gains Momentum in Northern Virginia
Arlington County and Alexandria are moving forward with actions that could potentially launch a new era of planning and development in their respective communities.
Seattle Legalizes Co-Living
A new state law requires all Washington cities to allow co-living facilities in areas zoned for multifamily housing.
NYC Officials Announce Broadway Pedestrianization Project
Two blocks of the marquee street will become mostly car-free public spaces.
Denver's New High-Rise Integrates Vertical Canyon in Architectural Design
Unlike other new builds in Denver, Colorado, a new high-rise reveals a unique “sculptural canyon” running vertically through the facade to foster a sense of community and connection to nature.
Opinion: Federal Government Must Continue Supporting Rural Housing Program
The incoming Congress will have a say in bolstering — or harming — the only federal housing program focused on affordable housing in rural areas.
Chicago Budget Fails to Include Snow Plowing Program
Disability rights advocates say the “Plow the Sidewalks” program is a necessity for Chicagoans with limited mobility in winter months.
Indy Bike Share Sees Sharp Growth Thanks to Free Pass Program
A new fleet of e-bikes and free access for Marion County residents are getting more people on bikes.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Village of Glen Ellyn
American Planning Association, Sustainable Communities Division
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
City of Cambridge, Maryland
Newport County Development Council: Connect Greater Newport
Rockdale County Board of Commissioners