Bill > HB2186

This bill establishes new regulations for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) across Pennsylvania, defining them as independent living spaces on a property with an existing or potential residential building, excluding recreational vehicles. It mandates that ADUs be a permitted use by right in any municipality with zoning where residential buildings are allowed, though this doesn't override private deed restrictions or planned community rules. The bill outlines specific, generally lenient restrictions municipalities can impose on ADUs, such as minimum and maximum sizes, height limits, and setback requirements, while prohibiting overly restrictive building material rules, mandatory connections between units, or requiring the correction of existing non-conforming structures. Importantly, municipalities cannot require owner-occupancy of either the main home or the ADU, nor a familial relationship between occupants, and can allow ADUs to be rented separately from the main residence, though they may prohibit short-term rentals of less than 30 days. The bill also clarifies that ADUs will be considered accessory uses, not increasing a lot's density, and will be consistent with existing zoning and general plans.