HB 1291 would establish new municipal obligations under the ADU law, but the law will maintain great flexibility and tools for municipalities.

  • The requirement that all municipalities allow up to two ADUs ensures that every community will be contributing to the solution to our housing crisis, not just a select few.
  • The ability of the municipality to require an additional half-acre for a second ADU will eliminate many properties from consideration.
  • The ability of the municipality to require owner occupancy of one of the units will ensure the direct involvement of the owner in the management of the ADU.
  • The ability of the municipality to require “workforce housing” affordability standards for a second ADU will ensure that there is a positive impact on the tight rental market.
  • The ability of the municipality to regulate short-term rentals will ensure that the ADUs provide an important addition to the community’s long-term rental market, in support of its labor force.
  • Finally, it’s important to recognize that only some property owners will use the opportunity to develop ADUs – they can be fairly expensive, particularly attached ADUs, because of the need for fire-rated walls between the units.