Wmh (or others!).

Property that I am under contract for would be perfect to convert the addition into a second unit. Street Property is on is zoned r-15 (residential) with no way to change apparently. I seem to recall from some of your posts that you were pulling permits for an aux unit or something like that (I could be mistaken). Is there any merit to what I am saying or are your properties already zoned to allow multi family? This property is in SC, so I am sure things will vary. Just trying to get some terminology straight.

Thank you!

Here in our county, even in a residential neighborhood, Accessory Dwelling Units are allowed subject to several rules. There is no change in zoning or in the status of the original building as a SFH. It is not considered multi-family or a duplex. It's simply what it is: an Accessory Dwelling Unit!

We were shocked to find out this was an option, as they certainly don't want to tell you about it!

Some neighborhoods allow it by right, some are subject to zoning saying okay, some don't allow it at all depending on type of land etc.

One rule is the unit must be subordinate (smaller) than the main structure. At least 300 but no more than 900 square feet, depending on lot size etc. It must be stick built (no modulars) although the main house can be a modular.

In our county, the owner is not required to live in the main structure. They tried to do that and found it was illegal. The next county over is still maintaining that, and we are not going to argue with them. Someone else can be the test case. ;)

Thank you!

Unfortunately, my city shut me down. :(

James,

There are ways to apply for a variance but they usually cost money and tons of time with no guranteed outcome.

Me? Keep looking. Plenty of easy deals out there!

In fact, we had a contract on a property where the former owner had illegally enclosed the bottom and made it a VERY nice apartment. We contacted the county and asked if there was any way to make it legal.

The County person said absolutely not, duplexes were not allowed in that neighborhood and the apartment would have to be removed. I said, "So there nothing to done?" County: "No." Me: "Can it be classified as an Accessory Dwelling Unit?

Silence. Then, "Well yes perhaps that would work."

Here is a good starting place for anyone:

Here's the one for Greenville, and they do not allow an ADU as a residence except for a caretaker: