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Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU)

An “Accessory Dwelling Unit" (ADU) is a permanent residential dwelling unit that provides a complete independent living facility for one or more persons that is smaller in size, and accessory to, a primary single family residential dwelling on the same parcel of land. As a residential unit, an ADU provides the same residential provisions of living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation as are found in other residential dwellings.

Can I place a mechanical system or power generator outside my home?

A Mechanical System is defined as equipment used to provide a structure's heating, cooling, ventilation or electrical services. A Power Generator is defined as a stationary or portable mechanical device using an internal combustion engine to generate electrical power to a structure. 

Mechanical Systems and Power Generators may require a mechanical or building permit . 

There are some zoning requirements that may be applicable before your permit proceeds. These include: 

  • Mechanical Systems are exempt from yard requirements (i.e. setbacks for your zone) (Section 10.515.12). 
  • Power generators require a 5 ft. setback from any lot line in all Districts (Section 10.515.14)
  • A mechanical system shall not be placed within a wetland or up to 25 ft from the edge of a wetland. 
  • A power generator may be placed within a portion of the wetland buffer, so long as it is outside of the 25 ft vegetated buffer (between 26 and 100 ft from the edge of the wetland) and is less than 10 s.f. in total area including the mounting pad. 
     
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