ADU rules in Madison, AL — also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances — cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
Madison's Zoning Ordinance permits one accessory dwelling unit per single-family lot. A detached ADU must be part of an accessory garage, may not exceed 1,000 square feet, and cannot be sold separately from the main home.
Under Zoning Ordinance Section 6-5-1.B, no single-family dwelling or lot may have more than one accessory dwelling unit, and an ADU may not be held in separate ownership or sold apart from the principal dwelling. A detached ADU must be part of an accessory detached garage; the unit may not exceed 1,000 square feet and the total structure (unit plus garage) may not exceed 25 percent of the primary dwelling. It may have only one kitchen and must be architecturally compatible with the main home. One additional paved on-site parking space (at least 180 sq ft) is required, but no new driveway is allowed. The City may inspect the ADU for compliance.
Building without required permits or zoning compliance can trigger stop-work orders, permit denial, and code-enforcement action. Contact Planning at 256-772-5630 before starting.
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