Like many other large metropolitan areas, Atlanta is contemplating the adoption of flexible requirements regulating accessory dwelling units (ADU’s), often referred to as ‘granny flats’ or ‘casitas.’
City planners this month have introduced Ordinance 21-0-0456, which seeks to ease housing regulations in Atlanta. The ordinance is currently being reviewed by the 25 Neighborhood Planning Units.
Crafted in three parts, the ADU ordinance language of the proposed legislation would allow for more affordable housing options throughout Atlanta. A public hearing on the ordinance amendments will be held during the Zoning Review Board on November 4, 2021.
Atlanta’s current ordinance defines ADU’s as small residential units secondary to the principal dwelling unit. This may include converting a basement or attached garage into a dwelling space or constructing a separate residential dwelling unit on the same property as the main home.
According to City Documents, Ordinance 21-0-0456, Section 3 will include policies intended to expand where ADU’s can be built, along with increasing the size of ADU’s in certain residential districts.
The Proposed Flexible Regulations Include:
- ADU’s are allowed to be attached to the main dwelling building (basement apartment or garage conversation) at 50% of the size as the main building, or one thousand square feet
- The height of ADU’s will increase to twenty-four feet, allowing for a two-story garage
- R4B District properties are allowed one ADU
- ADU’s can be constructed four feet from rear and side yard property lines in R4, R4A, and R4B Districts
- Detached ADU’s can be up to 1,000 square feet in size
- R5 Districts would be allowed to increase the allowable dwelling units to three on each parcel: Example – Duplex (two units) and ADU (one unit)
According to information provided by the City, the proposed flexible ADU measures intend to increase housing density, diversify housing styles, and allow for the construction of multi-generational housing. If it is your dream to have grandma living in your backyard, you just might have your wish come true.
One Response
It’s amazing how fast the City can push through legislation that suits their goal of increasing density, but is unable to come up with an updated tree ordinance after years of trying. Hmm…