Apple Valley, MN Accessory Structures: Garage Conversions (2026)

The garage-conversion standard is § 155.382(D)(8) of the Apple Valley Code of Ordinances, one of the performance standards for an accessory unit dwelling (AUD) in the City of Apple Valley, Minnesota (Dakota County). It applies to a conversion that creates an AUD, which is the second dwelling unit the code permits in the R-1 district by conditional use permit.

The rule starts from a preference for living-space conversions. An AUD can be created by conversion of living space within the primary residence, but not by conversion of garage space unless, thereafter, space is available for a two-car garage on the lot without the need for a variance. In other words, the garage can be given up only if the lot can still hold a two-car garage after the conversion, built in compliance with existing standards and needing no variance. The converted AUD must also comply with all state and city regulations and codes.

Parking tightens the picture. Under (D)(10), two off-street parking spaces are required for the AUD in addition to the two off-street parking spaces required for the primary residence, and in no case can more than four motor vehicles be parked outside of the primary residence. Under (D)(21), an additional garage can be constructed, provided only one garage is visible from the public street and it complies with all state and city laws and regulations. That subsection is the code's route for replacing garage space that a conversion removes.

A detached garage cannot be turned into an AUD at all. Under (D)(7), an AUD must be located within or attached to the primary residence and is not permitted in structures detached from it, including accessory buildings, detached garages, or workshops. Under (D)(6), any addition beyond the current footprint or existing height must be consistent with the existing facade, roof pitch, siding, and windows. The section covers conversion to an AUD; the code text read here does not set a separate standard for other garage conversions.