New ADU rules precise and possibly pointless

As Berlin officials have already discovered, establishing  the rules for the state’s new semi-solution to the housing shortage — Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) — is tricky business. Building one could be just as challenging.

That’s because the state law allowing these secondary homes on property zoned for single-family homes offers few clues as to what can and can’t be done.

In essence, the law that goes into effect on Oct. 1 says local governments can’t make zoning and building laws so restrictive that they prevent ADUs from being built or added. Beyond that, the state says the size, placement, materials, design and rental regulations are up to the local authority.

It’s as if the General Assembly was playing Jeopardy! when it declared that ADUs might be the answer to the state’s housing shortage, because it called on the towns and counties to come up with the right questions.

Consequently, as Berlin officials consider creating ADU standards, they must do so carefully, especially in areas where subjective calls and personal preferences come into play. They must make clear how ADUs may be used, including whether that would be as traditional rentals, independent living spaces or workforce housing.

But no matter how accommodating the town decides to make its ADU regulations, the greatest obstacle to their development will be the expense.

Maryland legislators failed to reckon with the current construction prices, because the cost of putting an ADU in a backyard is prohibitive for many people.

According to multiple financing models, the total bill for a 600-square-foot detached ADU built on land already paid for would be between $130,000 and $290,000. That covers materials, fixtures, labor, permits, and fees.

Considering the price problem, ADUs aren’t likely to be the big solution to the housing shortage, but Berlin officials have acted like they will be as they prepare for an eventuality that may never materialize as its sponsors envisioned.