Accessory Structures in Anchorage, AK (2026)
9 verified accessory structures rules for Anchorage, Alaska, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Anchorage passed major ADU reform 2021-2023 under AMC Title 21. ADUs are now allowed by right on most single-family lots, up to 900 square feet or 40 percent of the main home, with one off-street parking space.
Accessory Structures: Adu Rules
Few RestrictionsADU Permits
The Municipality of Anchorage permits Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) under Title 21 Land Use Regulations as updated by Assembly Ordinance AO 2022-107 (As Amended), adopted January 10, 2023. ADUs are allowed in all residential and commercial zones wherever there is a principal dwelling. Maximum size is 900 sq ft or 40 percent of the primary structure (whichever is larger), capped at 1,200 sq ft. Building permits are issued through the Development Services Department under Title 23 (Anchorage Building Code, AK-amended 2018 IBC/IRC).
Anchorage ADU Permits (AMC Title 21.05 + AO 2022-107)
Few RestrictionsADU Impact Fees
Alaska does not authorize traditional municipal impact fees in the manner California, Washington, or Idaho do. The Municipality of Anchorage charges land use permit fees under AMC 21.20 and building permit fees under Title 23, plus Anchorage Water and Wastewater Utility (AWWU) connection charges if new service is required. There are no parks, transportation, or school impact fees on ADU construction.
Anchorage ADU Impact Fees (No Traditional Impact Fees — Permit Fees Only)
Few RestrictionsADU Owner Occupancy
Anchorage no longer requires owner-occupancy for ADU properties. The Assembly removed the long-standing owner-occupancy mandate through AO 2022-107 (As Amended), adopted January 10, 2023. Property owners may build an ADU on rental property, rent both units to separate tenants, or sell with the ADU intact. HOA covenants under Alaska Statute Title 34 may still impose private residency restrictions.
Anchorage ADU Owner-Occupancy (Repealed by AO 2022-107)
Few RestrictionsADU Rental Restrictions
Anchorage allows ADUs to be rented long-term without restriction following the 2023 owner-occupancy repeal. Short-term rentals (under 30 days) must collect and remit the Municipality's 12 percent room/bed tax under AMC Chapter 12.20. Alaska has no statewide rent control and no statewide STR preemption; municipal home-rule authority governs. Tenancies fall under the Alaska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (AS Title 34.03).
Anchorage ADU Rental Rules (Long-Term Unrestricted; STR Subject to Lodging Tax)
Few RestrictionsShed Rules
Sheds up to 200 square feet and under 12 feet tall need no building permit in Anchorage, but must still meet AMC 21 zoning setbacks (typically 5 feet from side and rear lot lines). Larger sheds require a permit.
Accessory Structures: Shed Rules
Few RestrictionsGarage Conversions
Garage conversions in Anchorage require full permits. Conversion to an ADU follows the 2021-2023 ADU rules. Living-space conversions need egress, insulation, heating, and replacement off-street parking.
Accessory Structures: Garage Conversions
Some RestrictionsCarport Rules
Carports follow garage setbacks under AMC 21 (typically 5 feet side, 20-25 feet front). Attached carports need a building permit; detached under 200 square feet may be exempt. Snow-load design is critical.
Accessory Structures: Carport Rules
Few RestrictionsTiny Homes
Anchorage allows tiny homes on foundations as primary dwellings or ADUs under AMC 21. Tiny homes on wheels are treated as RVs — restricted to RV parks and not allowed as permanent dwellings.