Grand Rapids, MI Accessory Structures: ADU Owner Occupancy (2026)

Grand Rapids was among the earlier Michigan cities to drop owner-occupancy as a precondition for accessory dwelling unit use. Following the 2023 amendments to Chapter 61, Article 5 of the Zoning Ordinance establishes ADUs as a permitted accessory use in nearly all residential zones without a requirement that the property owner reside in either the principal dwelling or the ADU. This brings Grand Rapids in line with the policy direction of jurisdictions that have determined owner-occupancy mandates are difficult to enforce, deter the production of new housing units, and have limited evidence-based connection to neighborhood character. What does remain is rental regulation under Chapter 173 (Rental Property Maintenance and Inspection): every non-owner-occupied dwelling unit in Grand Rapids must obtain a rental certificate, undergo periodic interior and exterior inspections by the Code Compliance Division, and meet property maintenance standards based on the International Property Maintenance Code as adopted by the city. A property with both the principal dwelling and the ADU rented to non-owners must hold rental certificates for both units. Tenancies are governed by Michigan Truth in Renting Act (MCL 554.631 et seq.) and the Michigan Landlord-Tenant Relationships Act (MCL 554.601 et seq.). Michigan has not enacted a statewide preemption of municipal ADU owner-occupancy rules, but no preemption is needed here because Grand Rapids has chosen not to impose one. Private CC&Rs in some Grand Rapids subdivisions (newer East Hills, Heritage Hill historic district covenants, parts of Eastown) may impose owner-occupancy restrictions enforceable under standard Michigan contract law and recorded deed restrictions.