Staff explains why accessory living space differs from a dwelling under Southern Shores code

Sep 2, 2026

Town staff told the board that 'accessory structures with living space' are permitted but that full 'dwelling units' are not; combined enclosed living space for principal and accessory buildings may not exceed 6,000 sq ft, and whether a space is an ADU depends on the dwelling‑unit definition (cooking, sanitation, sleeping, living).

The full story

During its staff presentation the town reviewed how the Southern Shores zoning ordinance defines key terms that control whether an accessory building may be used as a separate dwelling.

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