An Accessory Dwelling Unit, is a smaller, independent residential dwelling unit located on the same lot as a stand-alone (i.e., detached) single-family home.
As of Monday, August 5th, 2024 the City of Topeka passed an ordinance allowing for Accessory Dwelling Units in all single-family zoning districts (R-1, R-2, and R-3). The passing of this ordinance followed nearly two years of public input and meeting with key stakeholders. Now within the single-family zoning districts a new subordinate unit is allowed on a single zoning lot, increasing the supply of housing choices and providing property owners greater ability to generate revenue. Below the ordinance, text amendment and previous presentation to the Governing Body can be found.
As of Monday, August 5th, 2024 the City of Topeka passed an ordinance allowing for Accessory Dwelling Units in all single-family zoning districts (R-1, R-2, and R-3). The passing of this ordinance followed nearly two years of public input and meeting with key stakeholders. Now within the single-family zoning districts a new subordinate unit is allowed on a single zoning lot, increasing the supply of housing choices and providing property owners greater ability to generate revenue. Below the ordinance, text amendment and previous presentation to the Governing Body can be found.
The City of Topeka Planning Division is continuing to explore ways to incentive this type of housing within City limits.
What is Missing Middle Housing?
Missing middle housing is defined as any property with two (2) to twenty (20) dwelling units. These housing types are often referred to has hidden density, as they can provide a greater housing supply on a smaller foot-print than garden apartments or high rise apartments. During the 2020 City-wide Housing Study, this type of housing was identified as one of the least found housing types, with demand greatly exceeding the supply.More Information
The passing of the ADU ordinance was the first policy reform completed as part of the Missing Middle Code Amendments, but just a first step to increase the quantity of missing middle housing. Additional policies that are being explored relate to:
- Parking Requirements
- Dimensional Standards within Residential Zoning Districts.
- Housing Incentives