Research Report Designing Accessory Dwelling Unit Regulations
Subtitle
Recommendations for the City of Alexandria, Virginia
Christina Plerhoples Stacy, Owen Noble, Jorge Morales-Burnett, Lydia Lo
Display Date
File
File
Download Report
(571.25 KB)

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), or secondary housing units on residential lots, have the potential to increase housing supply in single-family neighborhoods without drastically altering the character of those neighborhoods. ADUs can also provide a wealth-building opportunity for cost-burdened homeowners. However, while many cities have enacted laws allowing for ADU construction, some common regulations make adding an ADU too burdensome for homeowners interested in development. This brief provides evidence and recommendations for an ADU regulation for the City of Alexandria, Virginia, that minimizes barriers to development, is sensitive to the desires of existing residents, and is designed and implemented equitably. 

Research Areas Land use Housing Greater DC
Tags Multifamily housing Housing affordability Greater DC
Policy Centers Metropolitan Housing and Communities Policy Center
Cities Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV