Committee splits on accessory dwelling unit rules; advances version requiring special‑use approvals for internal ADUs in single‑family zones

The committee considered a substitute zoning ordinance to create a new limited use for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and to set design and use standards across Milwaukee’s residential zoning districts. The discussion was the meeting’s most contested item and included multiple proposed substitutes before the committee advanced a version that requires a special‑use permit for internal ADUs in RS‑1 through RS‑6 single‑family districts.

What the ordinance would do: The adopted substitute (committee version) would create an ADU use with detailed limited‑use and design standards. Key elements include: one ADU per parcel; ADUs limited to parcels with existing single‑ or two‑family dwellings; owner occupancy at the time of ADU permit application (to limit investor‑driven builds); and separate…