Cedar Falls updates ADU rules to match new state law, removes owner‑occupancy requirement

The Cedar Falls City Council unanimously approved, on first consideration, changes to accessory dwelling unit (ADU) rules to align local code with a new state law (Senate File 592).

Planning staff summarized the state law requiring jurisdictions to allow at least one ADU on a lot with a single‑family residence and restricting local authority on size, height, setbacks, parking and owner‑occupancy. As staff put it, "The new state law requires jurisdictions to allow a minimum of 1 ADU on the same lot as a single family residence." The proposed local amendments delete the owner‑occupancy requirement, increase the allowed number of ADU bedrooms to two, clarify height standards to match the principal dwelling, relax design and materials standards, and change basement egress rules from two per unit to one per bedroom. Staff also proposed removing an 8‑foot separation requirement between accessory and principal structures to avoid duplication with building code spacing requirements.

Staff said the planning and zoning commission recommended approval 7–0 on Aug. 27, 2025. Craig Fairbanks, a resident, thanked staff and supported the changes; Kim Jordan voiced concerns about stormwater, insurance and assessor impacts for added square footage.

Staff noted state law prevents cities from imposing additional parking requirements for ADUs beyond those required for the principal dwelling and confirmed homeowners associations may still enforce private covenants even if the city permits ADUs.

Councilors spoke in favor of matching state law; one councilor said their affirmative vote was to comply with state requirements even if they did not agree with every detail. The amendment passed on first consideration with all members voting aye.

Staff will implement code changes to bring the city ordinance into compliance with state requirements.