Digging Into D.C.'s Zoning Code Changes for Accessory Dwelling Units

Washington, D.C. approved a long-awaited new zoning code in January. Greater Greater Washington digs into one of the new code's more substantive changes: more permissive regulations for accessory dwelling units.

1 minute read

May 11, 2016, 2:00 PM PDT

By James Brasuell @CasualBrasuell

This accessory dwelling unit is located in the Portland neighborhood of Irvington. | radcliffe dacanay / Flickr

Emily Brown reports on the provision of Washington's D.C.'s new zoning code, that allows homeowners to build accessory dwelling units (ADUs) without special permission. "Allowing ADUs to go up more freely is one of the biggest changes of the new zoning code," according to Brown.

Apartments have always been relatively easy for homeowners to add—consider the classic DC "English Basement." Under the old zoning code they were allowed with a special exception, but now they are allowed by right in residential neighborhoods.

Brown details the definition of ADUs according to the new code, and other considerations, such as rental regulations and financial feasibility, for homeowners planning to add ADUs to properties.

Back in January, Planetizen picked up the news about the new zoning code from Martin Austermuhle at WAMU. David Alpert also provided detailed coverage of the approval for Greater Greater Washington.

FULL STORY: Want to add a small apartment to your house in DC? That's allowed now.

Tuesday, May 10, 2016 in Greater Greater Washington

Housing Land Use Urban Development District of Columbia Washington D.C. Zoning Codes Zoning Code Update Accessory Dwelling Units Mother-In-Law Unit Granny Flats View More

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Start Learning

Advertise with us

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.