Montcalm County updates construction ordinance to allow accessory dwelling units

Montcalm County commissioners approved an amendment to the county construction ordinance to permit accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and accessory structures, aiming to reduce the number of variance requests and accommodate aging residents and family caregiving arrangements.

Mike, the county building department director, presented the draft amendment and said the proposed language draws from research on other Michigan ordinances and defers technical setback and construction standards to the Michigan building code. The draft limits accessory dwellings to one per parcel and caps their size at 75% of the principal structure to avoid overshadowing the main residence.

Vice Chairman Peterson moved to approve the amendment as presented; the motion was supported and approved by voice vote. The board instructed staff to refer setback and fire‑resistant construction questions to the building code where required.

Supporters said the change will reduce the number of variance requests and make it easier for residents to provide housing for aging parents. Opponents did not register sustained objections during the meeting. The ordinance amendment passed without recorded dissent.

Next steps: staff will implement the amended ordinance and apply Michigan building code standards for setbacks and construction details when processing ADU applications.