Decatur ADU Regulations & Building Guide

Decatur, GA is a city known for its high median household income and a diverse economic landscape. As of the latest data, the median household income in Decatur stands at $133,619. This figure is considerably higher than the national median, indicating a relatively affluent community. The city's income distribution shows a significant disparity, with the top 20% of households earning an average of $462,346, while the bottom 20% earn about $20,864. This disparity is reflected in the Gini coefficient of 0.4824, suggesting moderate income inequality within the city.

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An ADU, or accessory dwelling unit, is a secondary, independent living space on a standard single-family lot. These units can either be part of the main house, like a basement unit, or stand alone at the back of the property. ADUs are a crucial part of what's known as the “missing middle” housing, bridging the gap between single-family houses and larger multi-unit buildings in urban areas. In Decatur, ADUs are a significant step towards addressing this housing need. They enhance community life and enable more families to afford and upkeep their homes in the city.

Since December 2012, ADUs have been recognized as a viable housing option. They're permissible in various residential zones, including R-85, R-60, R-50, RM-18, RM-22, and RM-43, with each single-family home allowed one ADU. Key guidelines include:

• ADUs can be part of a new or existing main residence, or situated at the back.
• An ADU's size is capped at 800 square feet, not exceeding 40% of the main home's size. If it includes a garage, the combined space can be up to 1,000 square feet.
• ADUs can house a maximum of two bedrooms.
• Homeowners must live in either the primary home or the ADU for at least eight months annually, with a residency affidavit required.
• A detached ADU must be in the backyard and occupy no more than 30% of that space.
• Combined with the main house, the total area shouldn't exceed 40% of the lot.
• The overall coverage of impervious surfaces on the lot is limited to 40%.

ADUs in Decatur represent diversity and affordability in housing, offering a new, neighborhood-scale rental option within the familiar setting of single-family homes.

California law (AB 68, AB 881, SB 9, and subsequent legislation) guarantees your right to build ADUs. Cities cannot:

• Require owner-occupancy for ADUs permitted after 2020
• Require additional parking for ADUs near transit
• Charge impact fees for ADUs under 750 sq ft
• Deny ADUs that meet state minimum standards
• Impose lot coverage limits that prevent a 800 sq ft ADU

If you believe your ADU application is being unfairly denied, California HCD can intervene on your behalf.

Georgia ADU Regulations

ADU regulations in Georgia are primarily determined at the local level. Cities and counties set their own rules regarding ADU size, placement, and approval processes.

GatherADU can help you navigate the specific requirements in your area. Contact us for a free consultation.

ADU Services in Decatur, Georgia

GatherADU is proud to serve homeowners in Decatur. Our comprehensive ADU services make it easy to add a backyard home, in-law suite, or rental unit to your property.

Our Decatur ADU Services Include:

• Free Site Evaluation: We assess your property's ADU potential, including zoning compatibility, utility access, and optimal placement.
• Custom Design: Our architects create ADU plans tailored to your needs, style preferences, and Decatur's design requirements.
• Permit Management: We handle all permit applications, engineering documents, and approvals with Decatur building departments.
• Full Construction: Our experienced team builds your ADU to the highest standards, managing every detail from foundation to finish.
• Financing Assistance: We connect you with ADU financing options including construction loans and HELOC solutions.

Why Decatur Homeowners Choose ADUs

Homeowners in Decatur are discovering the many benefits of adding an ADU to their property:

• Rental Income: Generate $1,500-$3,500+ monthly in rental income
• Multi-Generational Living: Keep aging parents or adult children close while maintaining privacy
• Home Office: Create a dedicated workspace separate from your main home
• Property Value: ADUs typically increase property values by 20-35%
• Housing Flexibility: Adapt to changing family needs over time

Ready to Build Your ADU in Decatur?

Contact GatherADU today for a free consultation. We'll evaluate your property, explain your options, and provide a transparent cost estimate for building an ADU in Decatur, Georgia.

Call us at (323) 591-3717 or schedule a free consultation online.