How a Different Kind of Unit Can Help Solve Housing Needs
The demand for housing in Johnson County and across the Corridor is high, and there are only so many places that new units can be built. But a different kind of housing unit could help alleviate some of that demand, and provide benefits to property owners as well.
Accessory Dwelling Units
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are fully self-contained living spaces that share a single-family lot with a larger dwelling. ADUs have their own kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area. They can be attached to existing houses, or built in a separate structure like a garage. You may know them by other names, like an in-law suite or a guest house.
“ADUs represent a new housing type for existing neighborhoods, which can be greatly beneficial for residents of all ages,” said Jessica Andino, the Executive Director of the Johnson County Affordable Housing Coalition. “Allowing for ADUs will assist in increasing the overall supply of housing, specifically as an affordable housing option within communities. Additionally, ADUs can help keep aging individuals in their preferred neighborhoods with either living near family or a caretaker.”
The Johnson County Affordable Housing Coalition hopes to engage local policy makers to change zoning code and allow for ADUs to be built within all municipalities. “Many of our local officials and city staff are open to exploring the idea of allowing ADUs within residential zones, so we are working with them to make this an option for residents,” Jessica said.
Along with providing housing to meet local demand, ADUs can also be a boon for homeowners by providing a separate dwelling that can be rented out to help the owner cover their own property costs. However, every city sets its own rules and regulations regarding ADUs, so it’s important to check your city code when it comes to the dos and don’ts of ADUs on your property.
Recently, the Iowa City City Council expanded the city’s code related to ADUs – making housing design and zoning standards more flexible to allow increased density on single-family lots. In simple terms: the change removes some of the barriers to construct ADUs in Iowa City neighborhoods. “We’re very excited about this change,” Jessica said. “But there are still some size restrictions and occupancy restrictions (where the owner must reside in either the main dwelling or the ADU).”
Want to learn more about Accessory Dwelling Units in our community? Throughout the month of February at certain Hills Bank locations, kids can play with representative ADU Legos while you learn about their benefits! We're partnering with the Johnson County Affordable Housing Coalition to bring this fun demonstration to our Iowa City offices located at 1401 South Gilbert St. and 2621 Muscatine Ave., as well as our North Liberty office at 590 W Forevergreen Rd. Be sure to stop by!
