ADUs can help address the problem of affordable housing by allowing existing homeowners to build a second unit on their property to rent out. In addition, seniors will have the option to “age in place” by moving into an ADU and renting the larger home for additional income.

ADUs are allowed on properties in unincorporated Wake County that are zoned to allow single-family or multifamily residences, subject to compliance with the applicable development standards. ADUs are also allowed within some municipal boundaries. Check your local regulations to find out what's allowed.

There are many ways to build ADUs which fall under two main ADU categories:

Detached ADU

A living unit that is physically separated from the main house and its attached garage, not sharing a common wall or other conditioned space, including:

• A new detached structure to create an independent living unit.
• Converting an existing detached accessory structure, such as a garage, workshop, office, or art studio room, into a separate living unit.
• A residential addition to an existing detached structure, such as adding a separate living space above or adjacent to an existing detached garage.

Attached ADU

A separate living unit that is within or connected/attached to an existing or proposed primary house or its attached garage, having a wall and/or other conditioned space in common, including:

• Converting an existing non-living space (e.g., storage area, attached garage, attic, crawl space) into a living unit.
• Remodeling an existing permitted living space within the main house to create a separate living unit.
• Adding square footage (an addition) to the primary home, for example, adding a second story or extending the main floor to create a living unit.

No, homeowners are not required to live on the property. 

Yes, they can be used as ADUs, provided they comply with the provisions related to ADUs and applicable standards, such as but not limited to building code, wastewater, etc.

If your property is served by a septic system (i.e., an onsite wastewater system), an Accessory Dwelling Unit may alter the wastewater design flow of the septic system, resulting in the need for additional wastewater permits.

Further information regarding requirements may be obtained from Health & Human Services–Onsite Water Protection:

• Wastewater/Septic: 919-856-7434 or wastewater@wake.gov
• Groundwater/Well: 919-856-7482 or wellwater@wake.gov

The process for assigning an address to an ADU is initiated when the building permit application has been submitted for review by staff.