ADU’s/Guest Houses - A Friendly Guide
If you’ve been hearing the term “ADU” pop up more and more lately, you’re not alone.
ADU (short for) Accessory Dwelling Units are becoming a popular solution for families who need extra space—or homeowners looking for a little extra income.
But what exactly are they?
Let’s break it down in a simple, conversational way.
So… What Is an ADU?
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is basically a small home that sits on the same property as a larger main house.
You’ve probably seen one without realizing it—think of a cozy basement apartment, an in-law suite, a garage turned into living space, a pole barn with living quarters or even a tiny cottage tucked into a backyard.
People use ADUs for all kinds of reasons:
✔ To give family members a private but nearby place to live
✔ To host long-term guests
✔ Or simply to make better use of the space they already have
One important note: an ADU can’t be sold separately. It’s part of the same property as the main home.
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While not all properties qualify for an ADU they may qualify for A Guest House.
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What is a Guest House?
A guest house may not be used as a rental. However, it may be used as a short-term rental. It can be used for non-paying guests or family residing in the primary dwelling, or employees at no cost, that work on the property.
A guest house can serve most of the same purposes as an ADU with a few more restrictions.
One important note: like an ADU it cannot be sold separately. It’s part of the same property as the main home.
If you are in Clackamas County you can click on this link to see the qualifications and restrictions for an ADU:
https://www.clackamas.us/planning/secondary-dwellings#adu
Here is a link to Clackamas County Guest House qualifications and restrictions.
https://www.clackamas.us/planning/zdo833
Watch for future blogs to learn more about ADU’s and Guest Houses or contact us at contactus@klmconstructionco.com
