Hartland board adopts ADU zoning amendment to allow accessory dwelling units in most single‑family districts

The Hartland Township Board on June 2 adopted Zoning Text Amendment #26‑001, allowing accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in the township's single‑family residential zoning districts.

Planning Director Troy Langer told the board ADUs could be attached (for example, basements, attics or garage conversions) or detached structures. Under the amendment, detached ADUs would be allowed only in the CA zoning district (minimum two‑acre lots), and ADUs must comply with normal zoning standards for the district. The ordinance requires the property owner to reside on the property in either the principal dwelling or the ADU, and allows ADUs to share utilities (water, septic, electric, gas, sewer) where permitted by other governmental authorities.

Langer said the township attorney suggested limiting ADU occupancy to family members to reduce enforcement burdens, but the Planning Committee declined that restriction citing the committee's goal "to provide some affordable housing for people in the community" and concerns about enforcement. The amendment includes size limits for detached ADUs and standards for attached ADUs to satisfy zoning requirements.

Clerk Ciofu moved to approve the zoning amendment as described in the staff memorandum, draft ordinance and resolution; Trustee Petrucci seconded. The board took a roll‑call vote and approved the amendment 7–0.

The amendment was reviewed by the Planning Committee and the Livingston County Planning Commission prior to final action by the board. The ordinance text and associated resolution are in the meeting packet. The board did not adopt a family‑only occupancy restriction and directed staff to continue coordinating with county and legal reviewers as needed.