Can I build a second house on my lot in Sterling Heights?

No. On land used for single or two family residences, only one principal building may be placed on a parcel or lot of record (Section 28.07). A second dwelling would be a second principal building, and the accessory building rules cap detached structures at one story or 15 feet with no residential use (Section 28.00).

The alternatives are subdivision or a development option. A lot split must satisfy Chapter 27 of the City Code (Land Division) and leave each new lot meeting the district minimums, for example 7,200 square feet with 60 feet of width in R-60 or 14,000 square feet with 100 feet of width in R-100 (Section 3.04.A). Larger parcels may qualify for the one family cluster option or a planned subdivision option as special approval land uses under Article 22 (Section 22.01; Section 22.02), or a site condominium under Section 22.00.

Each path runs through the Office of Planning, and a split that leaves any lot short of the minimums will not be approved, so start with a survey and a call to 586-446-2360.