Steps to open up the city to building more ADUs were last proposed in 2016, and were opposed by the Queen Anne Community Council. The group argued that allowing these units would negatively impact parking and utilities, and undermine the stability of neighborhoods. The community hearing examiner agreed, forcing the city to do additional environmental review before it could move forward.

Now that the hearing examiner has ruled in favor of the city, work by Councilmember Mike O’Brien to expand ADUs in Seattle can begin in earnest.

O’Brien has spearheaded efforts on this front in Seattle for years now. The verdict in this latest ruling will next move legislation from O’Brien forward into planning stages.

His proposed bill would allow for a handful of new standards for anyone looking to add a backyard cottage to their property. That includes:

Removing a requirement for property owners to live on any property with an ADU

Permitting two ADUs on a single lot

Removing a requirement for off-street parking

Inspiration for a small transitional 3/4 multicolored tile and ceramic tile ceramic tile walk-in shower remodel with furniture-like cabinets, distressed cabinets and a two-piece toilet

As families grow and change, the concept of multigenerational living gains appeal. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are increasingly popular for accommodating different generations within a single property, providing both closeness and individual privacy. This guide delves into how ADUs can support multigenerational families, fostering stronger bonds and offering economic advantages.

Benefits of ADUs in Multigenerational Homes ADUs strike an ideal balance between proximity and privacy in multigenerational setups. Constructing a separate living space on the same property allows families to live near one another while maintaining their own living spaces. This close yet independent arrangement supports daily interactions and family gatherings without the usual challenges of shared living spaces, promoting a supportive and connected family environment.

Economically, ADUs offer significant advantages by consolidating housing expenses. Families can share the costs of property maintenance, utilities, and mortgages, easing financial pressures across generations, which is particularly beneficial for the younger and older family members who might face more significant financial challenges.

Design Considerations for Family-Friendly ADUs Designing an ADU for a multigenerational family requires careful consideration to address the needs of all family members. For elderly residents, features such as step-free access, wider doorways, and safety bars in bathrooms are essential. For the younger generation, adaptable spaces that can transition from playrooms to study areas or home offices as children grow are highly beneficial.

Building Community Within the Home Beyond facilitating family togetherness, an ADU can also become a central hub for wider community engagement. It can host gatherings for extended family and friends, thereby extending its benefits beyond the immediate family to foster broader community connections. This not only enriches family life but also integrates the family more deeply into the local community fabric.

For Ronnie and Wendy Cunningham, Madison Valley home owners who had dreamed of building a backyard cottage in the backyard for years, an initial attempt to construct a modest DADU resulted in the loss of thousands of dollars over a fourteen month period in which they struggled with the city’s complicated permitting process. After receiving construction bids of more than $300,000, it seemed that the Cunningham’s attempt to secure additional financial security by building a DADU on a property that had been in the family since 1975 was all but lost.

On February 19th the city held a public hearing at which public comment overwhelmingly supported a change to the city’s municipal code that would “outright allow DADUs in single family [sic] zoning districts.” According to the City’s website, “This will end DADUs as a part of the pilot program and move DADUs into a comprehensive Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) code that covers detached and attached types.”

The city is looking to simplify and streamline the process for homeowners to build ADUs on their properties, known colloquially as backyard cottages or in-law units.

Homeowners would then be able to rent these units out, providing an additional source of income that could then be put toward anything from day-to-day living to mortgage payments. Alternatively, it also opens up more housing options for renters.

“The culprit in delaying these rules changes is the state’s environmental policy act,” Bertolet said. “People who want to oppose new housing projects or rules changes like these can sort of hijack the state environmental rules to create all kinds of delays. The city council has no control over these state laws.”