Salt Lake City working to streamline availability of accessory dwelling units
John Rogers
Salt Lake City officials have made a move bound to have a ripple effect in other communities across the Wasatch Front. In an effort to address the housing crisis, city leaders have enacted new ordinances aimed at simplifying the process for homeowners to build accessory dwelling units (ADUs). The changes, recently approved by the city council, are designed to increase affordable housing options in the rapidly growing urban area.
Under the new regulations, homeowners will be allowed to construct ADUs — often referred to as “mother-in-law apartments” or “granny flats” — more easily and with fewer restrictions. Key changes include reducing the minimum lot size required for ADU construction, simplifying the permit application process and eliminating the need for additional parking in certain situations.
“These changes are about providing more housing choices for our residents,” said Mayor Erin Mendenhall during a press conference announcing the new ordinances. “ADUs can help families accommodate their loved ones, create additional income streams for homeowners and increase our city’s overall housing supply without extensive new development.”
The city council is also taking steps to establish a financial program to make it possible for homeowners with modest incomes and limited home equity to afford to build an ADU on their property. Earlier this year, the city’s Redevelopment Agency published a notice of funding availability (NOFA) for nearly $3 million to attract a loan program provider for a two-year pilot program aimed at the city’s Westside that officials hope can thereafter be rolled out citywide.
The RDA wants to create a program that offers low-interest loans for the construction of ADUs that would rent at a rate affordable to someone making 80 percent or less of the area’s median income. The RDA said equity requirements would be low. The agency also left open the possibility of grants for ADU construction.
The new ordinances also include guidelines for design and aesthetics, ensuring that ADUs blend seamlessly into existing neighborhoods. Homeowners will be encouraged to use sustainable materials and energy-efficient designs, aligning with the city’s broader environmental goals, the city said.
Local housing advocates have praised the measures, noting that they represent a proactive approach to combating the housing shortage that has been exacerbated by rising property values and limited availability of affordable units.
“This is a step in the right direction,” said Sarah Jensen, a member of the Salt Lake City Housing Coalition. “By making it easier for residents to create ADUs, we are not only increasing our housing stock but also providing flexibility for families and individuals.”
However, some neighborhood associations have voiced concerns about potential overdevelopment and the impact on community character. In response, city officials have assured residents that zoning regulations will still apply, and they will continue to engage with community members to address their concerns.
The city plans to host informational sessions for homeowners interested in learning more about the new regulations and the ADU permitting process in the coming weeks.