Bill > HB5585

This bill amends the Michigan zoning enabling act to modify restrictions related to accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and mobile homes. An ADU is defined as a secondary, smaller living space that is incidental to a primary dwelling on the same property. The bill establishes that ADUs are permitted uses in residential zones under specific conditions, including size limitations (no more than 800 square feet or 75% of the main dwelling's size), minimum setback requirements from property lines, and the need for a primary single-family dwelling to exist or be under construction. These ADUs are not subject to discretionary approval processes or public hearings, and local governments cannot impose design or placement requirements on ADUs that are more restrictive than those for the main dwelling, nor can they restrict ADU occupancy to the owner or prohibit basements. Furthermore, ADUs must be excluded from density calculations in zoning districts. The bill also adds a provision that zoning ordinances cannot exclude mobile homes from residential zones, including through aesthetic or construction material restrictions that are not necessary for public safety and are primarily intended to prevent mobile homes from being in residential areas.