Accessory dwelling units; codes; owners
This legislation is expected to significantly impact local zoning laws by removing several restrictions that municipalities can place on the development of ADUs. For example, the bill prohibits municipalities from requiring compliance with specific exterior designs, additional parking for the ADUs, and establishing minimum setbacks greater than five feet from property lines. This could lead to an increase in the availability of affordable housing options as more property owners may choose to build ADUs to rent them out legally. Furthermore, if a municipality fails to adopt the required regulations by January 1, 2025, ADUs will be permitted unconditionally on residentially zoned properties.
SB1110 aims to amend the regulations surrounding accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in municipalities within Arizona, specifically targeting those with populations exceeding seventy-five thousand. The bill mandates that such municipalities must allow at least one attached and one detached ADU on properties where single-family dwellings are permitted. Additionally, for larger properties (one acre or more) that contain affordable dwelling units, there can be at least one additional detached ADU. The bill sets strict guidelines to determine the maximum size of an ADU, limiting it to either 75% of the main dwelling's gross floor area or 1,000 square feet, whichever is smaller.
The key points of contention surrounding SB1110 revolve around local control and the ability of municipalities to manage their zoning laws effectively. Proponents argue that standardized regulations for ADUs across larger municipalities will promote housing flexibility and affordability, allowing homeowners to diversify their rental incomes and accommodate multigenerational living arrangements. On the other hand, critics express concerns that the bill undermines local autonomy and could result in overdevelopment, arguing that local governments should retain the ability to regulate housing development to reflect the unique needs of their communities.