ADU rules in Vancouver, WA — also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances — cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
Vancouver allows up to two ADUs per parcel in all residential zones. ADUs may not exceed 800 sq ft or 50% of the main home's square footage, whichever is less. No additional parking is required.
Under VMC 20.810, Vancouver allows Accessory Dwelling Units in all residential zones (R-2 through R-35). Up to two ADUs may be created per parcel. ADUs may be attached, detached, or internal conversions. Maximum size is 800 sq ft or 50% of the main home (excluding garage), whichever is less. ADUs must include sleeping, sanitation, and kitchen facilities. No additional on-site parking is required. Building permits are required. Washington state law (HB 1337) expanded ADU allowances statewide.
Unpermitted ADUs must be brought into compliance. Construction without permits results in code violations.
Vancouver, WA
Vancouver regulates leaf blowers and power lawn equipment under its public disturbance noise ordinance. No citywide ban exists, but equipment causing unreaso...
Vancouver, WA
Vancouver prohibits leaving any vehicle parked on a public street for more than 24 consecutive hours. Officers attach a notification sticker; if the vehicle ...
Vancouver, WA
Vancouver's Municipal Code Chapter 20.912 governs all fences, walls, and retaining walls citywide. Residential fences have tiered height limits by yard locat...
Vancouver, WA
Vancouver prohibits barbed wire, razor wire, and electrically charged fences as accessories to residential uses. In commercial and industrial zones these mat...
Vancouver, WA
Vancouver has no dedicated local ordinance banning wildlife feeding. Washington state law prohibits feeding large wild carnivores and, since May 2025, feedin...
Vancouver, WA
Vancouver allows hens, ducks, geese, rabbits, and similar domestic animals in all zoning districts for hobby use with no minimum lot size. Roosters, turkeys,...
See how Vancouver's adu rules rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.