ADU Rules: Appleton vs Kaukauna

Appleton allows accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and junior ADUs (JADUs) on residential-zoned properties under Title 23 (Zoning Ordinance) Sec. 23-55 and Sec. 23-56, adopted by the Common Council in July 2021. ADUs are permitted in conjunction with an existing or proposed single-family dwelling or two-family zero-lot-line dwelling in the R-1A, R-1B, R-1C, R-2, and R-3 districts. JADUs are capped at 500 sq ft. A deed restriction is required so the ADU/JADU is sold together with the principal dwelling. Building permits are issued through the Community Development / Building Inspections Division.

The City of Kaukauna's zoning code (Chapter 17 of the Municipal Code) does not contain a dedicated accessory dwelling unit (ADU) provision. Sec. 17.03 defines an 'accessory use or structure' as one customarily incidental and subordinate to the principal use, and 'utility storage structures' as 'uninhabited' subordinate structures located in the rear yard. Two-family dwellings are permitted in the RTF Residential Two-Family District (Sec. 17.18) on a 9,000 sq ft minimum lot, and multifamily dwellings in the RMF District (Sec. 17.19). The RSF Residential Single-Family District (Sec. 17.16) permits only single-family dwellings on 7,200 sq ft lots. Property owners seeking an ADU should contact the Planning and Community Development Department before any construction.