Can I build an ADU?
Not all townships are created equal when it comes to building Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU’s) and our ADU zoning guide is a great place to start. We’ve highlighted some ADU friendly cities and counties where building regulations allow homeowners to create more space for family members or even generate monthly rental income, right from their own backyards!
What if my city isn't listed?
Give us a call, or drop us a line below! We’re happy to help you verify local zoning regulations and talk through possible options.
Have no fear, change could be near! ADU zoning regulations are a hot topic as local communities look to combat a lack of affordable housing. Join our waitlist below to stay in the know!
• Grand Traverse County • City of Grand Rapids • Holland • Charlevoix County • Antrim County • Village of Suttons Bay • Grand Traverse County • City of Grand Rapids • Holland • Charlevoix County
City of Grand Rapids?
Zoning changes have eased regulations in the City of Grand Rapids, turning ADU dreams into reality for local residents. Whether it’s extra space for family or a rental income producing backyard cottage, transparent ADU regulations in Grand Rapids allow homeowners to capitalize on existing space. Take a peek at some of the size and setback requirements.
- Min Size: 400 sq/ft
- Max Size: 850 sq/ft
- *No more than 40% of overall square footage of main house
- Side/Rear Setbacks: 3 ft
- Distance from primary: 10 ft
Holland
To keep up with the community’s changing housing needs, the City of Holland has embraced a flexible housing option commonly referred to as Accessory Dwelling Units, or ADUs for short. ADUs were initially permitted by city ordinance in 2015. This ordinance was modified in 2023 to allow somewhat more flexibility in the permitted size of the ADU and the permitted number of occupants.
- Min Size: 200 sq/ft
- Max Size: 800 sq/ft
- Setbacks: Varies by neighborhood
- Distance from primary home: varies by neighborhood
Downtown TC
Accessory Dwelling Units. (1) Accessory dwelling units are an allowed use provided they meet the following requirements: (a) The existing site and use are substantially in compliance with this Zoning Code. (b) Only 1 accessory dwelling unit per parcel is allowed with a maximum of 2 dwellings per parcel.
Charlevoix County
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) are one of the many important housing solutions needed in Charlevoix County. They increase the supply and variety of housing options in what are typically single-family neighborhoods. They are sometimes called backyard cottages and they share many characteristics with small, detached homes. Given their smaller size and lack of additional land cost, ADUs can offer a more affordable housing option in neighborhoods where homes are out of reach for many people.
Antrim County
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are permitted in most of Antrim County, Michigan. ADUs are smaller homes that can be built on an existing property to increase housing density and provide additional income for property owners. They can be built as new construction or by converting an existing space, such as a garage or living room.
Village of Suttons Bay
The Village of Suttons Bay currently has an ordinance that allows ADUs up to 600 square feet in size, so long as the owner of the parcel lives on the premises. Recently, there have been several citizen requests for the village to allow non-owner-occupied ADUs, with proponents arguing that a more flexible ordinance would lead to more ADUs and more housing opportunities in the community. For his part, Ford sees how a non-owner-occupied ADU would be more attractive to a renter, whether for short-term or long-term rental purposes.
In Antrim County, for instance, ADUs are permitted in the majority of municipalities, including the villages of Bellaire, Central Lake, Elk Rapids, Ellsworth, and Mancelona. Similarly, most of the townships in Grand Traverse County allow some level of ADU permitting—including Acme, Blair, East Bay, Green Lake, Long Lake, and Paradise—as does the City of Traverse City itself.
PREMIUM FEATURES IN EVERY NORTHWOOD TINY HOME & ADU
Ready to explore the world of Accessory Dwelling Units? Contact Northwood Tiny Homes today to schedule your free ADU Property Analysis & Estimate. As the top Michigan ADU builder, we’re here to help you every step of the way—from planning and designing your ADU to construction and finishing. Get started on your ADU journey with us today!