ADU rules in Vienna, VA — also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances — cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
Vienna amended Town Code Chapter 18 in November 2024 to permit Accessory Living Units (ALUs) attached to single-unit detached homes in RS-16, RS-12.5, and RS-10 zoning districts, effective December 30, 2024.
Under the Chapter 18 amendment adopted November 11, 2024, ALUs must be attached to (or part of) the primary residence and contain living, sleeping, food preparation, and bathroom areas. By-right size is capped at the lesser of 800 square feet or 40% of the main house, with a conditional allowance up to 1,000 square feet through a separate review process. ALUs are limited to a maximum of two bedrooms. Homeowners must obtain a permit, and properties may be inspected at renewal every two years. Vienna's authority to regulate accessory uses derives from Va. Code §15.2-2280 (zoning enabling). State law §15.2-2291 also requires localities to allow accessory apartments under reasonable conditions.
Operating an ALU without a permit, exceeding size limits, or violating zoning standards subjects owners to enforcement under Vienna Town Code Chapter 18 and possible permit revocation.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Fairfax County.
See how other cities in Fairfax County handle adu rules.
See how Vienna's adu rules rules stack up against other locations.
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