Long Grove trustees ask staff to research ADUs and lot-splitting amid housing concerns

Trustee Jal raised the idea of exploring accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and lot splits on large parcels as a potential way to increase housing options in Long Grove, noting that many large lots and barns could accommodate small secondary units.

Trustees discussed multiple dimensions of such a policy: minimum lot-size thresholds (examples discussed included 1 acre and larger lots), restrictions to prevent short-term rentals or commercialized Airbnbs, design and aesthetic controls (potential role for architectural control committees or HOA covenants), plumbing and building-code implications (including whether additions trigger retrofitting of the primary structure), and enforcement challenges for use and occupancy restrictions.

Some trustees supported preliminary research and asked village staff to draft potential parameters, citing examples from other municipalities where similar measures or lot-splitting have been used to increase housing choice. Others cautioned about changing the village's character and the difficulty of monitoring non-family rentals. Trustees suggested staff (Chris and others) examine model ordinances, minimum lot sizes, size limits, occupancy restrictions and enforcement mechanisms and return with options.

Why it matters: Long Grove trustees flagged ADUs as a possible local response to broader housing affordability and demographic trends, particularly as existing large-lot housing can be expensive to maintain or out of reach for younger residents. Properly scoped changes could create more local housing options while protecting community character; poorly scoped changes could lead to enforcement burdens and unwanted commercial uses.

What comes next: Trustees directed staff to research parameters and precedents and to report back with a framework for possible zoning amendments, including clarity on HOA covenant limits and building-code requirements.