Accessory Apartments: Using Surplus Space in Single-Family Houses.
Author(s):
Conner, Susan
Hare, Patrick H.
Merriam, Dwight
Publication Date:
01/1981
Performing Organization(s):
American Planning Association Chicago, IL
Availability:
Available from American Planning Association, 1313 East Sixtieth Street, Chicago, IL 60637.
Notes:
Planning Advisory Service Report no. 365. CP
Descriptors:
Rental apartments. Single family housing. Local housing agencies. Local planning. Zoning regulations.
Abstract:
This discussion of local ordinances that legalize conversion of extra space in single family homes into accessory apartments encourages such conversions to meet the rising need for moderate - cost housing as well as to enable older homeowners to utilize their surplus space to economic and social advantage. Planners preparing ordinances to regulate conversions should consider citizen concerns about neighborhood change, the number of units likely to be built, the conditions that make regulation essential, the effect upon property values, the size of accessory units, and the encouragement of barrier - free access to units. The same ordinance may not be appropriate for all residential districts within a community, and different requirements for conversion may be appropriate for different areas of the same community. Large tax increases on homes with accessory apartments would reduce incentive to convert or even to bring existing illegal ones under the auspices of the law. Illustrations of sample provisions are given from Marin County, Calif., Montgomery County, Md., and other communities. They include provisions on titles and statements of purpose; requirements for owner occupancy; restrictions on the age of homes to be converted as well as on the age of owners and tenants; parking needs; and adequate water and sewer service. Guarding against visual change in the neighborhood is also addressed. Procedures for approving installation of accessory apartments are delineated, as are procedures for legalizing existing units. Monitoring accessory apartments through periodic permit renewal is advised. In principle, local governments should regulate accessory apartments, because such land - use decisions fall within their purview. Sample ordinance language and optional provisions are cited. Photographs illustrate exteriors of converted homes. The bibliography contains 12 entries.
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