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Urbandale adopts ADU zoning to comply with new state law, limits to one unit per lot
Summary
To align with a state law that took effect July 1, Urbandale adopted an ordinance that allows one accessory dwelling unit (ADU) by right on any property with a single‑family residence, sets size limits (minimum 1,000 sq ft or 50% of house), and removes design/material controls while preserving covenant enforcement by private homeowners associations.
The Urbandale City Council adopted zoning changes to allow accessory dwelling units after a staff presentation explaining the changes required by state law that went into effect July 1.
Steve Franklin, director of community development, introduced the item and said the city must allow ADUs by right on any property defined as a single‑family residence by the state. City planner/staff member Annika outlined the key constraints: municipalities may not require public hearings for ADUs, cannot regulate appearance or materials, and must allow ADUs at least 1,000 square feet or up to 50% of the primary dwelling, whichever is larger. "We must allow ADUs on any property with a single family residence," Annika said, explaining that the state definition of single‑family is broad and may affect more properties than anticipated.
Urbandale's ordinance includes the following local provisions where allowed by state law: limiting ADUs to one per property; requiring attached ADUs to meet the same setbacks as the primary structure; allowing modestly reduced rear setbacks (10 feet) for detached ADUs under 1,000 sq ft to make detached units practical; and requiring clear access (sidewalk or paved driveway) for emergency service access. Annika emphasized that covenants and homeowners association rules that prohibit ADUs remain enforceable: "This does not overcome any covenants that may be on your property," she said.
Council members asked clarifying questions about enforcement and practical conflicts between size and setbacks; staff said the city will monitor how the law is interpreted and applied as ADU projects are proposed. The council opened the public hearing; no residents spoke for or against the ordinance. After discussion, council members moved to close the hearing and approved council letter 8218 implementing the ADU code changes.
Why it matters: The ordinance aligns Urbandale with state law and removes some local discretion on design and review, while preserving limited local rules (one ADU per property, setback clarifications) and private covenant enforcement. The code change could expand potential rental or housing options across many single‑family lots in Urbandale.
Next steps: The ordinance is in place; staff will process future ADU applications under the new state requirements and return to council with any needed clarifications as precedents develop.
