The City of Hattiesburg took a major step to expand local housing options at its March 17 City Council meeting by adopting new regulations for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), commonly referred to as “mother-in-law suites.”
Through an amendment to the city’s Land Development Code, ADUs are now permitted in agricultural and residential zoning districts, as well as the B-1 and B-2 business districts. ADUs may also be considered in the B-4 zoning district through the conditional use approval process.
ADUs are small, secondary dwelling units located on the same lot as a principal single-family home. They can be created inside the primary home, added as an extension, or built as a detached unit within or attached to an accessory structure. The city’s ADU standards are intended to expand housing options, including independent living space for aging family members, adult children, or caregivers who need to live nearby, and additional housing opportunities for students.
The ordinance sets clear baseline standards intended to keep ADUs compatible with established neighborhoods. Only one ADU is allowed per zoning lot, and ADU size is limited relative to the primary home. The ordinance also addresses how ADUs are permitted and administered, including core requirements related to building and life-safety compliance. No additional off-street parking is required solely because an ADU is established.
For homeowners, ADUs may provide flexibility in how a property is used over time, whether as space for family members or as a rental unit. Residents interested in using an ADU as a short-term rental should confirm registration requirements and any applicable regulations before operating.
For more information about ADUs, contact the Urban Development Department with the City of Hattiesburg.
