Lansing regulates accessory dwelling units through Chapter 1246 of the Lansing Code of Ordinances (Zoning) administered by the Department of Economic Development and Planning. Under the 2024 ADU pilot program, detached and attached ADUs are permitted in most single-family residential districts (D-1, D-2) subject to size, height, parking, and design standards. All ADU work requires a building permit reviewed under the Michigan Residential Code (adopted via Public Act 230 of 1972, the Construction Code Act).
Lansing's zoning is codified at Chapter 1246 of the Code of Ordinances, with permit administration handled by the Department of Economic Development and Planning at 316 N. Capitol Ave. Building plan review and inspections are handled by the Lansing Building Safety Office under contract authority delegated by Michigan's Construction Code Act (Public Act 230 of 1972, MCL 125.1501 et seq.). The 2024 ADU pilot expanded the zoning code to allow attached and detached accessory dwelling units in D-1 (single-family low density) and D-2 (single-family medium density) zones, subject to: a maximum floor area generally set at the lesser of 800 sq ft or 30% of the primary dwelling's footprint; a height cap matching the underlying residential district (typically 25-30 ft for detached structures); a minimum 5-foot side and rear setback for detached ADUs; one additional off-street parking space; and conformance with the Michigan Residential Code for habitability (egress, ceiling height, smoke and CO alarms under MCL 29.5c). Because Lansing borders Michigan State University across the Red Cedar River, properties in the South Lansing and east-side corridors adjacent to campus see significant ADU interest. Historic district review is triggered for properties in the Genesee Neighborhood Historic District, Westside Neighborhood, and other designated Local Historic Districts under MCL 399.201 et seq. (the Local Historic Districts Act).
Construction of an ADU without a building permit is a violation of the Michigan Construction Code Act and Chapter 1246 Zoning. Lansing Building Safety may issue stop-work orders, require after-the-fact permitting at increased fees, and refer continuing violations to the City Attorney. Unpermitted ADUs cannot be registered as rentals under the City's rental certification program and cannot be lawfully leased.
Lansing, MI
Lansing permits construction during standard daytime hours. Construction is generally allowed from 7 AM to 9 PM Monday through Saturday. Sunday construction ...
Lansing, MI
Lansing addresses barking dogs under Chapter 654 (Noise) and Chapter 610 (Animals). Owning or harboring any animal that frequently makes sounds creating a no...
Lansing, MI
Lansing prohibits unreasonably loud or disturbing noise under Chapter 662 of the Code of Ordinances. Quiet hours run from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM in residential ...
Lansing, MI
Lansing restricts the storage of recreational vehicles, boats, and trailers in residential areas. Street parking of these vehicles is limited and storage mus...
Lansing, MI
Lansing restricts parking of large commercial vehicles in residential areas. Heavy trucks and semi-trailers may not be stored in residential zones.
Lansing, MI
Lansing regulates on-street parking through Chapter 1042 and the Parking Services Division. No vehicle may park in one location on a public street for more t...
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