County Executive Jan Gardner announced proposed
legislation to encourage the construction of accessory dwelling units in
Frederick County. Co-sponsored by County Council President Bud Otis and
Council Member Jessica Fitzwater, the proposal would streamline regulations to
make it easier to build what used to be called in-law suites, which are small living spaces within or attached to a home, or stand alone “tiny houses.” The legislation only addresses units that are accessories to existing single-family homes.
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are defined as dwelling
units that are accessory to or located on the same lot as a principal
residential structure. ADUs are often targeted to seniors because they have
cooking, bathroom and sleeping areas that are separate from the main dwelling.
“Accessory dwelling units are one approach to providing
housing options for people in Frederick County,” said Executive Gardner. “This
initiative has been a team effort and is an example of what we can accomplish
when we work together for the citizens.”
The proposed legislation will be discussed by the County
Council at its June 12 workshop at 4:30 p.m. A draft of the legislation is
available for review on the Council
agenda at www.FrederickCountyMD.gov/agenda.
For more
information, please watch the public
information briefing.