Des Moines permits Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) under the Zoning Ordinance (Municipal Code Chapter 134, PlanDSM-aligned). ADUs are allowed in most residential zones (N1, N2, N3 neighborhood districts) as part of the 2019 zoning code overhaul. One ADU per single-family lot is permitted. Building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits route through the Des Moines Development Services Department. Iowa has no statewide ADU preemption; Title IX of the Iowa Code leaves zoning to home-rule municipalities.
Des Moines Municipal Code Chapter 134 (Zoning Ordinance, adopted 2019 as part of PlanDSM Creating Our Tomorrow) regulates Accessory Dwelling Units. ADUs are permitted by-right in N1, N2, N3, and N4 neighborhood districts and conditionally in some other residential zones. Dimensional standards include a typical maximum size of 800 square feet or 75 percent of the primary dwelling, whichever is less; maximum height generally limited to the principal structure or 25 feet; setbacks per underlying zone (typically 5 feet side, 25 feet rear or as modified for accessory uses). One ADU per lot. ADUs may be detached, attached, or interior conversions (basement or attic). Required permits issued by the Development Services Department (Armory Building, 602 Robert D. Ray Drive): building, electrical (Iowa Code Chapter 103 licensed electrician), plumbing (Iowa Code Chapter 105 licensed plumber), and mechanical. Permits are filed through the Citizen Self Service (CSS) portal. Iowa Code Title IX (Local Government) and Chapter 414 (City Zoning) grant Des Moines home-rule authority; no Iowa statute preempts ADU regulation. Historic districts (Sherman Hill, Owl's Head, Woodland Heights) require Landmark Review Board (LRB) approval under Chapter 58.
Unpermitted ADU construction violates Chapter 134 with civil penalties up to $750 per day per violation under Chapter 60 (Municipal Infractions). Development Services may issue stop-work orders and demolition orders for unsafe structures. The City may seek injunctive relief in Polk County District Court. Liens may attach to the property for unpaid fines and corrective work. Iowa Code 364.22 governs municipal infraction enforcement.
Des Moines, IA
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