ADU rules in Lakewood, OH — also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances — cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
Since Ordinance 07-2023 (adopted Nov. 20, 2023), Lakewood permits accessory dwelling units as a conditional use in the R2 Single- and Two-Family District, subject to owner-occupancy, size, and Architectural Board of Review standards under Section 1161.03(bb).
Lakewood Codified Ordinance Section 1161.03(bb) allows an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) in the R2 District as a conditionally permitted use. The lot may have only one existing dwelling unit, and it must be continuously occupied by the majority owner as their primary residence. An ADU may be attached or detached; one proposed over an existing garage requires that the garage meet current Building Code. The ADU must sit in a side or rear yard and not be closer to street frontage than the primary structure. Maximum gross floor area is 50% of the gross lot coverage area of the principal structure (excluding porches, decks, and patios) or 1,000 square feet, whichever is less. One off-street parking space is required, the unit must be separately addressed per the Ohio Fire Code, it cannot be sold separately from the principal structure, the minimum rental term is 60 days, and a deed restriction must be recorded with Cuyahoga County before occupancy. Each ADU must be reviewed and approved by the Architectural Board of Review.
ADUs created without a conditional use approval, ABR review, building permit, and recorded deed restriction are not authorized; no certificate of occupancy will be issued until the deed restriction is recorded with Cuyahoga County.
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