Can I build an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) in Sterling Heights?

The zoning ordinance has no ADU provision. We reviewed the residential districts (Articles 3 through 7), the accessory building rules (Section 28.00), and the definitions (Section 31.01) in the current codification and found no allowance for a second dwelling unit, attached or detached, on a single family lot.

Two rules point the other way: only one principal building is allowed on a single or two family lot (Section 28.07), and the one family districts permit only "one family detached dwellings" (Section 3.01.A). A detached accessory building is limited to uses "customarily incidental" to the home (Section 28.00), which does not include independent living quarters.

If you want a second unit, the lawful paths are a duplex on land zoned R-2 or a rezoning request. Rules change, so confirm with the Office of Planning at 586-446-2360 before assuming an ADU is off the table.