Cary, NC
BIG changes may be coming to Cary’s zoning laws—and they could open the door for more in-law suites, garage apartments, and backyard cottages. Guidelines are changing for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).
The proposed ACT 32 amendment would:
- Increase max size of an ADU from 33% to 50% of the main house (still capped at 800 sq ft)
- Allow detached ADUs on nearly all single-family lots, regardless of lot size.
- Require only 1 parking spot per unit (regardless of bedrooms)
What’s next?
Cary Town Council is holding a public hearing and will then send ACT 32 to the Planning & Zoning Board for review. If they recommend approval, it could soon come back to the Council for a vote—so if you have thoughts, now’s the time to speak up.
Personal Perspective
Back when I lived in Los Angeles, similar changes led to an ADU boom. At first, parking rules made it nearly impossible—so people just built them illegally. Then, when the laws changed, everyone started adding them (legally). Did it increase housing? Sure. But it didn’t make it cheaper. Tiny backyard units in LA now rent for more than full homes in other areas. So is this a solution—or just a new opportunity for homeowners, investors… and maybe your in-laws?
Would you build one? Or rent one out?
Let’s hear your thoughts.
#CaryNC #ACT32 #ADU #ZoningChanges #InLawSuite #BackyardHomes #HousingCrisis #RealEstatePolicy #MultigenerationalLiving #ShortTermRentals #CaryHousingPlan #UrbanPlanning #AffordableHousing #NCHousing #BuildSmarterLiveBetter #HomeownerLife #RealEstateInvesting #CaryRealEstate
