What is an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)?

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are known by many names: granny flats, in-law units, backyard cottages, second units and more. An ADU is a habitable living unit added to, created within, or detached from a primary single-family dwelling and contained on one lot. The purpose of an ADU is to create an independently habitable dwelling unit that provides shelter, heating, cooking facilities, and sanitation facilities for one family or household. 

Draper City allows for two types of ADUs. The first is a Detached ADU (D-ADU). These are separate structures within the rear yards of a lot. The second type is an Internal ADU (I-ADU). These are located within the existing footprint of the primary dwelling on the property, such as a basement apartment. An I-ADU is distinguishable from a duplex in that, it is clearly subordinate to the primary dwelling unit, and can only be created after the primary single-family dwelling has been built. 

Examples of ADUS - graphic

Graphic courtesy Erin O'Kelley - Millcreek City

Show All Answers

1. What is an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)?
2. Why did the City modify the regulations concerning ADUs and why do they now require a permit?
3. Did the City adopt a grace period to bring properties into compliance?
4. Where can I find the application form for an ADU Permit?
5. Where can I build an ADU?
6. What are some of the standards that have to be met for a D-ADU?
7. What are some of the standards that have to be met for an I-ADU?
8. When I bought my home, the real estate agent told me the mother-in-law apartment was legal. Why do I now need an ADU permit?
9. I have a second kitchen in my home, but my mother-in-law (or other family member) lives in that space and we do not charge rent. Do I still need an ADU permit?
10. Will I be required to evict tenants or sell the property in an investment property where the main home and D-ADU are rented to different tenants?
11. What will happen if an ADU is not legal, and is not permitted to be legalized?
12. What if I am about to rent (or I am currently renting) an ADU unit and I am concerned that the unit might not be legal? Could I get evicted even if I signed a lease?