Supporting Changing Family Needs
14% of Franklin County residents are 65 or older — ADUs give families flexible housing options to support aging parents, adult children, and multigenerational living.
Current Process Too Complex
ADUs are not currently allowed "by right" in Columbus. Homeowners must navigate a costly, complex process just to build a small unit on their own property.
Streamlining for Results
This legislation cuts red tape and reduces upfront barriers, helping residents create more housing options in every neighborhood.
Columbus Accessory Dwelling Units Initiative
Making It Easier for Homeowners to Add Housing Options
Legislation Passed - November 24, 2025
With passage, Ordinance 2526-2025 now makes it easier for residents to add Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) to existing residential properties. ADUs are small, self-contained residential units that can be attached to a home or built as a separate structure, often as a small apartment or in-law suite. As part of Columbus Forward, this legislation expands housing options, supports multigenerational living and creates new opportunities for homeowners to build wealth.
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Columbus is growing fast, and so are our housing needs. Families are changing too — more households are multigenerational, with grandparents, parents, and adult kids all needing space under one roof or nearby. Right now, if you want to add a small apartment or "in-law suite" to your property, you have to jump through expensive hoops and navigate complex zoning rules. This initiative makes it easier for homeowners to build accessory dwelling units (ADUs) — small, self-contained residential units that can be attached to your home or built as separate structures — creating more housing options while helping families stay close together and homeowners build wealth.
Key Outcomes & Benefits
Support for Multigenerational Living
ADUs make it easier for families to care for aging parents, accommodate adult children, or help with childcare. These small, independent living spaces let families stay close while maintaining privacy and independence.
Additional Income for Homeowners
When used as rental properties, ADUs can provide homeowners with extra income to help with mortgage payments, property taxes, or other expenses. It's a way to make your property work harder for you.
More Housing Without More Sprawl
ADUs add housing units in existing neighborhoods without requiring new infrastructure or sprawling development. This helps address Columbus' housing shortage while preserving neighborhood character.
Simpler, Cheaper Process
Instead of expensive variance applications and lengthy approval processes, homeowners will have a clearer, more affordable path to adding ADUs. No more guessing about zoning requirements or facing financial risks upfront.
RELATED RESOURCES
Draft Code Changes
ADU Allowance Chart
ABCs of ADUs
Building & Zoning Services Presentation
Development Presentation
Water & Power Presentation
July Public Hearing
September Public Hearing