Roseville, MN Accessory Structures: Garage Conversions (2026)

Roseville's zoning code treats a garage conversion through its accessory dwelling unit rules. The definition of "Dwelling unit, accessory" in § 1001.07 states that the term "accessory dwelling unit" includes accessory buildings constructed in connection with a private garage or a private garage converted into a dwelling unit. A converted garage therefore falls under the ADU standards in § 1011.12(b)(1).

The lot rules come first. An ADU must be on a lot occupied by a one-family dwelling, only one ADU is allowed per lot, either the principal dwelling or the ADU must be owner-occupied, and both units must be under unified ownership. Occupancy is capped at two people, the ADU gets its own address identifier ("Unit A" for attached, "Unit B" for detached), and the property needs at least one additional conforming off-street parking space beyond what the principal dwelling requires.

Size and design come next. Living area must be at least 300 square feet and not more than 650 square feet, never more than 75 percent of the principal dwelling's four season living area, and the living-area definition excludes utility rooms, hallways, entryways, storage areas and garages. An ADU is limited to one bedroom, must meet principal building setbacks, and a detached ADU cannot sit closer to the front property line than the principal building. Detached ADUs must match the principal dwelling's exterior finish, roof pitch, trim and window proportions.

To rent the unit, the owner needs a lifetime, non-transferrable ADU occupancy permit from the community development department, applied for with the fee in the city fee schedule, which lists an Accessory Dwelling Unit permit under 1011.12.B at $110.00. Owners within 100 feet are notified and have seven days to comment. The permit expires when the property transfers to a new owner, and a revoked permit means occupancy by a non-family tenant must cease within 60 days. Appeals follow § 1009.08.