A new regulation under consideration would permit properties to subdivide and sell a small housing unit behind a house, that has been in place for at least five years, as an alternative approach to provide housing and income for residents. The backyard housing units would likely become one- or two-bedroom long-term rentals* or owner-occupied housing. The proposed maximum size of backyard housing units would be 1,000 square feet with at least six foot setbacks from property lines.

*Rentals are “long-term” when rented for more than 30 days. Short-term rentals (less than 30 days) as whole house Airbnb/VRBO are not permitted in Asheville. Short-term rentals are only permitted in Asheville as one- or two-bedroom stays within homes occupied by property owners as part of the ‘Homestay’ ordinance.

Please particpate in the poll below to help the City understand if this is of interest for our community. If you would like more details on what is being proposed for small backyards lots in Asheville, visit the Missing Middle Housing page.