Accessory Dwelling Units

Background    ADU Image from APA

The City Council adopted an ordinance in 2024 permitting accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in all zoning districts which allow for single-family dwellings as a permitted use.

An accessory dwelling unit is located on the same zoning lot as a single-family dwelling but provides separate provisions for cooking, eating, sleeping, sanitation, ingress and egress. The adoption of an ADU ordinance addresses the City's goals and objectives, including:

Geneva’s Strategic Plan, Economic Vitality Objective 1

  • Calls to, “maintain an economically healthy population through support of new housing opportunities and changes that may allow for greater variety of housing available to individuals at all stages of life and income levels.” 

Geneva's Downtown Station Area Master Plan

  • Goal 1: Preserve downtown’s authentic character while accommodating new infill development.
  • Goal 3: Maintain downtown as the civic heart of the City.
  • Goal 4: Encourage a diversity of residential development types in and near downtown.
  • Goal 5: Make it easy to get around.  

ADU Ordinance Highlights

Number and Size

There shall be no more than one accessory dwelling unit, whether attached or detached, on a zoning lot. Accessory dwelling units shall not exceed 1,000 square feet.

Location on Lot

Accessory dwelling units shall comply with the yard, setback, and height requirements set forth in Section 11-3-3 and the zoning district in which it is located.

Permitted Zoning Districts

Accessory dwelling units shall be permitted in all zoning districts which allow single-family dwellings as a permitted use. 


Owner-Occupation

The owner of the zoning lot on which the accessory dwelling unit is located, shall occupy either the principal single-family residence or the accessory dwelling unit. Additionally, the accessory dwelling unit itself may not be held in separate ownership. A lot that includes an accessory dwelling unit may not be further subdivided. A deed restriction shall be recorded before the issuance of a building permit for the ADU to provide notice of these requirements to subsequent owners. (See template deed restriction)

Parking

At least two off-street parking spaces shall be provided for the principal single-family residence and at least one additional off-street parking space shall be provided for the accessory dwelling unit.