Amendment to Accessory Uses and Structures (25-05915PZ)
Amendment to Accessory Uses and Structures (25-05915PZ)
Status: Pending City Council review
Next Key Date: City Council Public Hearing | October 28, 2025 January 27, 2026
Managing Planner: Sam Starr-Baum, AICP, Planner III | sstarr-baum@ashevillenc.gov
This is a proposed text amendment to Section 7-414-1 of the UDO.
The amendment proposes to update the Unified Development Ordinance so that existing non-conforming structures that meet the requirements as set forth in the ordinance can be converted into Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).
In the current code, any non-conforming structure must go before the Board of Adjustment to receive a variance to be used as an ADU. This is a months long process and costs applicants at least $540.00.
16 of the last 42 cases that the Board of Adjustment have heard have been to allow for the conversion of non-conforming existing structures into ADUs.
39% of all residential structures are considered non-conforming in the Unified Development Ordinance. City of Asheville staff anticipate that the demand for ADUs will only increase given housing demand.
Public meeting Schedule:
This text change is scheduled for review by City Council on January 27 2025. Comments submitted to the engagement hub will be downloaded and summarized for staff and City Council.