ADU Rules: St. Clair Shores vs Sterling Heights
How do adu rules rules compare between St. Clair Shores, MI and Sterling Heights, MI?
St. Clair Shores and Sterling Heights have similar restriction levels.
St. Clair Shores, MI
Macomb County
Macomb County does not have a countywide accessory dwelling unit ordinance. In Michigan, ADUs, in-law suites, and second dwellings are zoning matters decided by each city, village, or township, so rules differ across Warren, Sterling Heights, Clinton Township, Shelby Township, and other communities.
View full St. Clair Shores rules →Sterling Heights, MI
Macomb County
Michigan has no statewide ADU mandate. Sterling Heights ADU policies depend on local zoning. Some Michigan cities have adopted ADU-friendly ordinances.
View full Sterling Heights rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | St. Clair Shores | Sterling Heights |
|---|---|---|
| County ADU ordinance | None; set locally | - |
| Authority | MI Zoning Enabling Act | - |
| Decided by | City, village, or township | - |
| Where to apply | Local planning/building dept | - |
| County role | No residential zoning | - |
| State Mandate | - | None |
| Local Policy | - | Varies by city |
| Typical Size | - | 600 to 800 sq ft max |
| Permit | - | Building permit required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
St. Clair Shores FAQ
Does Macomb County allow accessory dwelling units?
The county itself does not regulate ADUs. Whether one is allowed depends on the zoning ordinance of your specific city, village, or township, so check with the local planning department where the property is located.
Who issues an ADU permit in Macomb County?
Your local municipality does. Michigan's Zoning Enabling Act gives cities and townships zoning power, so the local building and planning office reviews ADU applications, not Macomb County government.
Sterling Heights FAQ
Can I build an ADU?
Depends on Sterling Heights zoning. Michigan has no state mandate - check your local zoning code for ADU rules.
Do I need to live on the property?
Many Michigan cities that allow ADUs require owner-occupancy. Check Sterling Heights zoning code.
Compare other topics
See how St. Clair Shores and Sterling Heights compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool