Flint, MI Accessory Structures: ADU Rules (2026)
ADU rules in Flint, MI, also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances, cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
Key Facts
- Governing section
- § 50-91 Rear Dwellings
- Min accessway, 1 unit
- 20 feet wide
- Min accessway, 3+ units
- 50 feet wide
- Must meet
- all yard/parking rules as principal bldg
Summary
Flint's zoning code allows a residential building behind a home on the same lot only if it meets every yard, open-space, and off-street parking rule, plus a dedicated 20-foot-wide accessway to a public street.
No building in the rear of a principal building on the same lot shall be used for residential purposes unless it conforms to all the yard and other open space and off-street parking requirements of this chapter. For the purpose of determining the front yard in such cases, the rear line of the required rear yard for the principal building in front shall be considered the front lot line for the building in the rear. In addition, there shall be provided for any such rear dwelling, an unoccupied and unobstructed accessway not less than 20 feet wide to a public street for each dwelling unit in the dwelling, or one not less than 50 feet wide for three or more dwelling units. (Ord. 2046, passed 4-11-1968)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2016 Code: Local legislation current through Ordinance 3821, passed 3-1-2012).
Full Breakdown
The City of Flint doesn't use the term "accessory dwelling unit," but § 50-91 governs the same situation: a second residential building in the rear of a principal dwelling on one lot. It must conform to every yard, open-space, and off-street parking requirement of Chapter 50 as though it were a standalone building, and the rear line of the principal building's required rear yard becomes the front lot line for measuring the rear unit's own setbacks. Each rear dwelling needs an unoccupied, unobstructed accessway at least 20 feet wide to a public street, or 50 feet wide if the rear building holds three or more units.
Violations & Fines
Placing a habitable rear building without meeting § 50-91's yard, parking, and accessway requirements can bring a stop-work order or denial of occupancy from Flint's Building Inspector.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Flint allow a separate rental unit behind my house?
How wide does the driveway to a rear dwelling have to be?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Flint
How Flint compares: Easiest Cities to Build an ADU·Compare Flint to another location·View the Michigan accessory structures overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.