Good News for ADUs!

Good news for homeowners of “short homes” (Ramblers and Story-and-a-Half’s) in Minneapolis!

Earlier this week, the Minneapolis Planning Commission approved zoning code changes which allows detached Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) to be taller than the main home. Previously, owners of ramblers and story-and-a-half homes were limited to a single story detached ADU, simply because of the requirement for an ADU to be shorter than the main home. Now, owners of short homes are able to build a 2-story ADU on their lot, as long as they can meet the other code requirements.

For one of our current clients, this change allows for their ADU (shown above) to be taller than its 1.5 story Minneapolis main house.

In addition, the maximum height of an ADU was increased from 20 feet to 21 feet. Although 12 inches of additional height may sound insignificant, this greatly helps fit more sufficient insulation, while maintaining a comfortable ceiling height.

Christopher Strom Architects advocated for changing the zoning code on behalf of our clients, providing a diagram to demonstrate a typical “street-view” of a rambler home with a 2-story ADU in the backyard (shown below). Thank you to our clients who also advocated for this change!