Starting on June 30, Darien will allow Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in town after the Planning & Zoning Commission found that the development of Accessory Dwelling Units offer benefits for both homeowners and the broader community.
— adapted from an article in the May 24 Town of Darien Newsletter and a May 7 resolution from the commission
The commission spent over a year considering and discussing the potential rules and regulations surrounding ADUs and their impact in Darien. The deliberations concluded with a public hearing on March 12.
Why Allow ADUs?
Some of the benefits discussed by the commission include
Diverse Housing Options. ADUs contribute to diverse housing options within communities. They cater to various housing needs, from individuals seeking studio apartments to small families looking for slightly larger living spaces. This diversity promotes inclusivity and can accommodate different lifestyles and life stages.
Affordable Housing Options. ADUs provide housing options for individuals or families who might otherwise have a difficult time finding an affordable place to live. They may address local housing shortages and promote socio-economic diversity in neighborhoods.
Multi-Generational Living. ADUs enable multi-generational living arrangements. Adult children, parents, or other family members can live in ADUs, maintaining their autonomy while remaining close to family. Seniors may choose to “age in place,” remaining in their communities for longer periods.
Additional Rental Income. Homeowners can rent out ADUs. This income may help to offset mortgage costs, property taxes, and maintenance expenses, improving financial stability and providing funds for other investments or expenses.
Image created by User:Joiedevivre123321 on Wikimedia Commons
Some different types of accessory dwelling units (ADUs)
Some Provisions of the New Regulations
The approved new regulations include a number of provisions, including, but not limited to the following:
• An owner with one or more acres of property may build an ADU with town departmental review/approval.
• An owner with less than one acre of property must obtain approval from the Planning & Zoning Commission.
• ADUs are only allowed in these zoning districts: R-2, R-1, R-1/2, R-1/3, and R-1/5. (For an enlargeable map showing the locations and boundaries of all zoning districts in town, click here.)
• If the ADU is attached to or within the existing house (i.e. converting an attached garage), the ADU may be no larger than 700 square feet, and be no larger than 30% of the principal residence.
• Parking: 2 parking spaces are required for the primary residence plus 1 parking space for the ADU.
• If the ADU has more than one bedroom, a parking space is required for each bedroom.
• All properties with an ADU must be occupied by the property owner, either in the primary residence or in the ADU.
There are numerous detailed provisions — to read them all, go to: www.darienct.gov/ADU.
If You’re Interested in Getting an ADU …
The Planning & Zoning Department is in the process of preparing checklists and helpful instructions for those who wish to install an ADU. Those will be posted to the www.darienct.gov/ADU web page in late May or early June.
Those who are interested in an ADU on their property should call 203-656-7351 to make an appointment with Fred Doneit or Jeremy Ginsberg in the Planning & Zoning office to discuss their specific property.