Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)
Definition
A small secondary housing unit on the same lot as a single-family home. Examples: garage apartments, basement units, backyard cottages, ‘granny flats.’ Typically 400-1,200 square feet with own kitchen/bathroom.
Louisville Context
Louisville zoning severely restricts ADUs, despite housing shortage. Current rules require special permits, large lot sizes, and owner occupancy—making ADUs rare. Dave streamlines ADU permitting: allow by-right in all residential zones, reduce lot size requirements, remove owner-occupancy mandate, fast-track permits. ADUs provide: affordable rental units, aging-in-place options for seniors, multigenerational housing, and income for homeowners.
Why It Matters
Louisville needs 30,000 affordable units but prevents homeowners from creating units on their own property. ADUs add housing without new land, support aging seniors, create rental income, and cost nothing in public funds. Zoning restrictions are the only barrier.
Dave’s Proposal
Legalize ADUs by-right in all residential zones. Remove owner-occupancy requirements, reduce lot size minimums, fast-track permits (15-day approval), and provide design templates reducing costs.