River Heights council adopts ADU ordinance requiring owner-occupancy, 11,000-sq.-ft. threshold for detached units

River Heights City Council on Sept. 1 adopted ordinance 7-2026 to add accessory dwelling unit (ADU) rules to city code, following guidance from state lawmakers. The new rules allow internal ADUs (basement or attached units) without a lot-size minimum while limiting detached ADUs to lots of at least 11,000 square feet; detached units must be on a foundation, tie into the home’s sewer and water service and have a single water meter billed to the homeowner.

Keenan of the planning commission said the draft follows the state’s direction and addresses parking, setbacks and occupancy. “There would only be 1 water meter,” Keenan said in explanation of billing and service requirements. Councilors emphasized enforcement concerns, setbacks from easements, and limits on unit size and height: a detached ADU may not exceed the height of the primary residence under the adopted language. The ordinance passed after a motion and second; the council recorded a voice vote in favor.