In an effort to expand housing opportunities and diversify housing choices, Ames City Council is exploring policies around allowing accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and duplexes within single-family neighborhoods. Open houses have been scheduled to provide information and receive public feedback on these new options. There will be no formal presentation, and participants are welcome to come and go.
- Monday, Aug. 21: 5:30-7:30 p.m., Ames Public Library Farwell T. Brown Auditorium, 515 Douglas Ave.
- Thursday, Sept. 14: 5:30-7:30 p.m., Hira Park Shelter, 3622 Woodland St.
- Monday, Sept. 18: 5:30-7:30 p.m., James Herman Banning Ames Municipal Airport Multi-purpose Room, 2520 Airport Drive
- Monday, Sept. 25: 5:30-7:30 p.m., Inis Grove Park Walnut Shelter, 2500 Duff Ave.
ADUs – also called second units, granny flats, or mother-in-law units – are accessory living areas smaller than and detached from the primary single-family home, but with a bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom. Duplexes are attached two-family dwellings, sometimes called twin homes, that are two independent living spaces and are not linked with a single-family home. Currently, City Code limits options for duplexes and second units in single-family neighborhoods. Some private covenants within subdivisions also limit these uses.
The proposed standards for ADUs include a size limit of 900 square feet, one bedroom, one parking space, and that the property owner reside in either the primary home or the ADU, which allows for one unit on the property to be rented if desired. Duplexes are proposed with design standards to address design compatibility related to the existing neighborhood.
Those with questions or comments who are unable to attend the meeting can find more information, take an online survey, and leave comments at www.CityOfAmes.org/ADDHousing, or contact the Planning and Housing Department at 515.239.5400.
This topic will return to City Council in the fall to review all the collected public input and to give direction on how to proceed with creating final standards.
