ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) — Accessory dwelling units are now allowed in Ithaca. 

The Common Council approved the bill last night, which officials say simplifies the creation of more housing citywide. An ADU is described as secondary housing on existing property. In putting the bill together, the city determined these as objectives:

  • Create new housing units while respecting the look and scale of traditional residential development.
  • Support more efficient use of existing housing stock, accessory structures, and infrastructure.
  • Offer environmentally friendly housing choices with less average space per person and smaller associated carbon footprints.
  • Provide housing that responds to changing family needs, smaller households, and increasing housing costs.
  • Provide accessible housing for seniors and persons with disabilities.
  • Encourage an alternative type of housing that addresses a gap in the middle market

On social media, Alderperson Ducson Nguyen called May 7 ‘ADU Liberation Day in the City of Ithaca.’