The Town of Huntsville has launched a new Secondary Residential Dwelling Units program, aimed at helping property owners add additional living spaces to their residential properties.
Officials said the new program offers six comprehensive pre-approved building design packages that provide homeowners with a simple way to construct secondary dwelling units, which are self-contained living spaces that include their own kitchen and bathroom. They can be located as a detached structure on the same residential property and are typically found on lots with a single-detached, semi-detached, or townhouse dwelling.
Officials said the packages include a variety of design styles, floorplans, and unit sizes ranging from 250 to 600 square feet for single-storey units, and up to 800 square feet for above-garage units. Package fees will vary depending on the selected design.
Mayor Nancy Alcock says the program is intended to support both homeowners and the community by increasing housing options in the region.
“We are excited to launch this initiative and the benefits it offers to those interested in building these types of dwellings on their residential property, whether for personal use or as rental units,” Alcock said. “The SRDU program provides a streamlined process for constructing a variety of pre-approved secondary units and will be an important tool in increasing housing supply and affordable housing options in Huntsville.”
Officials said the initiative will help support a wider range of housing needs, including housing for essential workers, multigenerational living arrangements, and aging in place. Smaller, compact homes also provide environmental benefits through reduced building and heating demands. Homeowners benefit through increased property value and additional income through rental opportunities.
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CORRECTION: A previous version of this article incorrectly stated that these pre-approved secondary dwelling units could be built within an existing home. To clarify, this program is for detached structures only. Not renovations to an existing home.
