Accessory Structures in Lansing, MI (2026)
8 verified accessory structures rules for Lansing, Michigan, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Lansing addresses accessory dwelling units through the zoning code. ADUs may be permitted in certain residential districts subject to size, setback, and parking requirements.
Lansing ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) Rules
Some RestrictionsADU Permits
Lansing regulates accessory dwelling units through Chapter 1246 of the Lansing Code of Ordinances (Zoning) administered by the Department of Economic Development and Planning. Under the 2024 ADU pilot program, detached and attached ADUs are permitted in most single-family residential districts (D-1, D-2) subject to size, height, parking, and design standards. All ADU work requires a building permit reviewed under the Michigan Residential Code (adopted via Public Act 230 of 1972, the Construction Code Act).
Lansing ADU Permit Process (2024 Pilot & Chapter 1246 Zoning)
Some RestrictionsADU Impact Fees
Lansing does not impose impact fees on accessory dwelling units because Michigan municipalities lack general statutory authority to charge residential development impact fees. The Michigan Supreme Court's 1998 decision in Bolt v. City of Lansing, 459 Mich 152, struck down a Lansing stormwater fee as an unlawful tax, and the controlling rule has prevented Michigan cities from adopting development impact fees ever since. ADU costs in Lansing are limited to building permit fees, plan review fees, and Lansing Board of Water and Light (BWL) service connection charges.
Lansing ADU Impact Fees (None - Bolt v. City of Lansing)
Few RestrictionsADU Owner Occupancy
Lansing's Chapter 1246 ADU provisions do not impose a blanket owner-occupancy mandate, but any ADU or primary dwelling rented to a non-owner must be registered under the City's rental certification program enabled by Michigan Public Act 247 of 2014 (codified at MCL 125.526). The certification program requires registration, inspection, and a Certificate of Compliance before a unit can be lawfully leased. Properties within historic districts face additional Historic District Commission review independent of occupancy status.
Lansing ADU Owner-Occupancy (Rental Certification under PA 247 of 2014)
Some RestrictionsADU Rental Restrictions
Lansing does not currently impose a separate citywide short-term rental licensing scheme on ADUs, but any ADU rented to a non-owner is subject to the Rental Property Certification Program under Public Act 247 of 2014 (MCL 125.526). ADUs let for stays under 30 days are subject to the Michigan 6% Use Tax on accommodations (MCL 205.93a) and the Ingham County Hotel-Motel Tax. Properties adjacent to Michigan State University in the East Lansing border corridor face significant student-rental demand that the certification program is designed to capture.
Lansing ADU Rental Restrictions (Long-Term vs. MSU-Adjacent STR)
Some RestrictionsShed Rules
Lansing regulates sheds under building and zoning codes. Small sheds under 120 square feet may be exempt from permits but must meet setback requirements.
Lansing Shed & Outbuilding Rules
Some RestrictionsGarage Conversions
Lansing regulates garage conversions through building and zoning codes. Converting a garage requires permits and must maintain minimum parking.
Lansing Garage Conversion Rules
Some RestrictionsCarport Rules
Lansing regulates carports as accessory structures under Part 12 Title 6 (Zoning Code) of the Codified Ordinances. Permits are issued by the Department of Economic Development and Planning, with construction subject to the Michigan Residential Code adopted under Part 14 of the Codified Ordinances. Section 406 of the Michigan Building Code sets the open-side and clear-height standards for carports referenced by the local building official.