ADU Permits: Grand Rapids vs Kentwood
How do adu permits rules compare between Grand Rapids, MI and Kentwood, MI?
Grand Rapids, MI
Kent County
Grand Rapids adopted progressive ADU reforms beginning in 2023 that permit accessory dwelling units in nearly all residential zone districts (LDR, TN-LDR, TN-TCN, TN-TBA, MON, MOR, NOS, and similar) as a permitted accessory use, subject to standards in Chapter 61 (Zoning Ordinance) Article 5 (Specific Use Standards). One ADU per single-family lot is permitted whether attached, detached, or interior conversion, with maximum size limits keyed to lot area and principal-dwelling size. Michigan has no statewide ADU enabling statute — under the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act (MCL 125.3101 et seq.), zoning authority rests with the municipality.
View full Grand Rapids rules →Kentwood, MI
Kent County
No data available yet for Kentwood.
Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Grand Rapids | Kentwood |
|---|---|---|
| Code Authority | Ch. 61 Zoning Ordinance Art. 5 | - |
| Permitted Zones | LDR, TN-LDR/TCN/TBA, MON, MOR, NOS | - |
| Max Detached ADU | ~850 sf or 50% of principal | - |
| Parking Minimum | None (eliminated citywide 2023) | - |
| Building Code | 2015 Michigan Residential Code | - |
| State Preemption | None (MCL 125.3101 et seq.) | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Grand Rapids FAQ
Does Grand Rapids allow ADUs in single-family neighborhoods?
Yes. Following 2023 reforms, Chapter 61 (Zoning Ordinance) Article 5 permits one accessory dwelling unit per single-family lot in nearly all residential zones (LDR, TN-LDR, TN-TCN, TN-TBA, MON, MOR, NOS), in attached, detached, or interior-conversion configurations. Maximum detached ADU floor area is generally the lesser of approximately 850 square feet or 50 percent of the principal dwelling floor area, subject to lot-size minimums and setbacks. No additional parking is required because Grand Rapids eliminated parking minimums citywide in 2023.
What permits do I need?
Zoning verification from Planning under Chapter 61; a building permit from the Grand Rapids Development Center under the 2015 Michigan Residential Code (Michigan Construction Code Act, PA 230 of 1972); separate electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits; and a sewer connection permit through the Environmental Services Department if a new connection is needed. Kent County does not issue a separate building permit for parcels inside Grand Rapids. Confirm address and zoning through the city's online portal before submitting plans.
Kentwood FAQ
No FAQs available.
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