Apple Valley, MN Accessory Structures: ADU Rules (2026)

Section 155.382 of the Apple Valley Code of Ordinances, adopted as Ord. 729 on 6-26-03 and amended by Ord. 1121 on 6-8-23, is the only route to a second dwelling unit on a residential lot in the City of Apple Valley, Minnesota (Dakota County). Subsection (A) limits the use to one-family detached dwellings in the R-1 district and ties it to the R-1 minimum lot size of 40,000 square feet, which the city says lessens the effect on neighboring properties. Subsection (C) provides that no property in a one-family residential district can hold more than one dwelling unit unless a conditional use permit is first obtained from the city for an AUD.

Location is tight. Under (D)(7) the AUD must be within or attached to the primary residence, and it is not permitted in accessory buildings, detached garages, or workshops, so a backyard cottage or garage apartment does not qualify. Under (D)(4) the AUD's total floor area cannot exceed 40% of the primary residence's footprint and cannot be less than 300 square feet. The City Council can approve a larger floor area if the petitioner shows the added size is clearly subordinate to the principal dwelling, the exterior changes do not substantially alter its single family character, and the resulting house size is consistent with homes in the immediate neighborhood. Under (D)(5), lot coverage from the primary residence, the AUD, and all other impervious surface cannot exceed 35% of the lot or parcel area.

Occupancy and parking are capped as well. The AUD holds no more than three occupants and no more than two bedrooms. Two off-street spaces are required for the AUD in addition to the two required for the primary residence, and no more than four motor vehicles can be parked outside of the primary residence. A home with an approved AUD is not eligible for the extra-vehicle permit under § 155.373(B)(1)(c).

Density rules apply too: only one AUD per lot, and none if three AUDs already exist within a radius of 2,640 feet (one-half mile) of the proposed unit. Design standards require the AUD to match the house's facade, roof pitch, siding, and windows, keep its primary entrance unobtrusive, connect to municipal sewer and water, and meet building, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, and fire codes. Home occupations are allowed in either the AUD or the primary residence, not both. The city can allow reasonable deviations for accessibility features.