Montgomery County Provides Information about New Rules for Accessory Dwelling Units

For Immediate Release: Monday, December 30, 2019

New information about Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), such as a basement apartment, in-law suite or tiny home, is now available on the Montgomery County website and by calling 311. The information reflects changes in the County’s Zoning Text Amendment 19-01 that take effect on Tuesday, Dec. 31. 

An ADU is a housing unit located on the same lot as a single-family detached house – subject to specific legal requirements.  An ADU is not permitted in a townhouse, condo, duplex or mobile home and may not be used as a short-term vacation rental.

To ensure compliance with health and safety laws, all existing ADUs and proposed ADUs must be licensed with the Montgomery County Department of Housing and Community Affairs (DHCA).  ADUs are inspected at licensure application for compliance with County housing and zoning codes. Required building permits are issued by the Department of Permitting Services.

ADUs located within the following municipalities are not required to be licensed with DHCA: Town of Laytonsville, Town of Barnesville, Town of Garrett Park, Villages of North Chevy Chase, City of Rockville and City of Gaithersburg. Homeowners in the City of Takoma Park must obtain a one-time ADU license issued by DHCA and maintain a renewable rental license with the City of Takoma Park.

Homeowners with a unit previously licensed with DHCA as an “accessory apartment” will be reclassified as an ADU.

To learn more about ADUs or to apply for an ADU license, visit the DHCA Licensing and Registration Class 3 Accessory Dwelling Unit webpage or call 311 (240-777-0311).

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Release ID: 19-424
Media Contact: Lorraine Driscoll 240-777-6533