ADU rules in Saint Paul, MN β also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances β cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
Saint Paul allows ADUs by right in all residential zoning districts. Both internal and detached ADUs are permitted with size limits. Owner occupancy is not required.
Saint Paul updated its zoning code (Leg. Code Ch. 66) to allow ADUs citywide in residential districts without a conditional use permit. Detached ADUs may be up to 1,000 square feet or 50% of the primary dwelling area, whichever is less. Internal ADUs are limited to 33% of the total habitable floor area of the principal structure. ADUs must meet setback requirements for accessory structures (generally 4 feet from side and rear lot lines). One additional off-street parking space may be required unless the property is within a quarter mile of a transit stop. Building permits and compliance with the Minnesota State Building Code are required. ADUs cannot be sold separately from the principal dwelling. The city has streamlined ADU permitting to encourage development of additional housing, particularly in neighborhoods with older single-family homes. Height limits for detached ADUs generally match accessory structure standards at 15-25 feet depending on the district.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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See how Saint Paul's adu rules rules stack up against other locations.
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