What’s an ADU & Why Does it Matter?
The acronym “ADU” has been a bit buzzy in recent years, as housing options become less accessible and more expensive. But what really is an ADU and how can building them help homeowners, renters, families, and the community at large?
ADU is short for Accessory Dwelling Unit, a zoning/governmental term that means a secondary residential unit that is either attached to or located on the same property as a primary single-family home. It's a self-contained living space that includes a separate entrance, kitchen, bathroom, and living area.
ADUs & Arizona’s Housing Shortage
Like much of the country, Arizona is in the midsts of a significant housing shortage. According to the Arizona Department of Housing, the state is short around 270,000 homes.
ADUs can help mitigate the deficit of affordable housing by supporting urban infill and creating opportunities for multigenerational living or additional choices for renters.
Benefitting Communities
Importantly, ADUs contribute to the diversification of housing options within communities, promoting inclusivity and affordability. They increase housing density and support maximizing land use and sustainable development practices.
The hopeful result is a community in which people are not priced out of the areas where they work and want to spend their time in.
Supporting Multigenerational Living
ADUs can specifically benefit families by providing additional living space for aging parents or adult children. By living on the same property, but not in the same dwelling, families are able to maintain close connections while preserving independence and privacy.
Potential Rental Income
If a homeowner builds an ADU on their property, they now have the opportunity to generate extra income by renting out this additional living space. Their rental income can then offset mortgage payments or other expenses, enabling homeowners to build wealth and improve their financial stability.
How the City of Tucson is Championing Infill & ADUs
In 2021 the mayor and city council voted to amend the city code, allowing for one ADU to be built on all residential lots within the city. This decision is a result of the city's efforts to address housing affordability and urban development challenges, by promoting increased density and diverse housing options.
To promote the building of ADUs, the city has taken efforts to streamline the permitting process, as well as creating financial incentives and a new grant pilot program for low-income homeowners.
Some of the City of Tucson Rules & Regulations
One ADU can be built on any residential lot (check your zoning)
The max size of an ADU is up to 10% of the lot size, up to a maximum of 1,000 sq. ft.
All lots are allowed an ADU of at least 650 sq. ft.
The max height for ADUs is 12' or the height of the primary structure on lots with two-story homes
Visit Tucson's department of Planning & Development Services in person or online for more information
Additional Information & Resources:
If you’re interested in building an ADU, buying a home with one, or buying a home on a lot with enough room to build one, contact me and let’s chat! julia@buyselltucsonhomes.com or 520-275-3514
Julia Van Valkenburg, REALTOR
OMNI Homes International
