Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are on the rise. These independent dwellings allow family members to accommodate relatives in their own private dwelling on the same lot as the family home – which makes them a popular choice for multi-generational homes.ย 

If you live in Minnesota, you may be wondering if ADUs are allowed in the state and if theyโ€™re allowed in your city. In this blog, weโ€™ll cover what Minnesota cities allow ADUs, and what the requirements are in each city.ย 

What is an ADU?

An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is an independent residential unit located on the same property as a single-family home. Casually, these are also sometimes called โ€œgranny flats,โ€ โ€œmother-in-law suites,โ€ or โ€œgarden cottages.โ€

a graphic showcasing the different types of ADUs: interior attached (basement or attic), attached ADU (addition), and detached ADU.

Learn more in our blog: What is an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)?

Are ADUs Allowed in Minnesota?

Some MN cities allow ADUs, some do not. There is no state or federal-level code that allows ADUs. Instead, itโ€™s up to each city to determine if they allow ADUs in their municipal code.

That said, with the popularity of ADUs in St. Paul and Minneapolis, many other cities in the metro area allow for an ADU. You can generally consult the municipal code on your cityโ€™s website to find out if accessory dwelling units are allowed. Just make sure to look for โ€œaccessory dwelling unitโ€ and not โ€œaccessory structure:โ€ An accessory structure isnโ€™t legally a dwelling (think sheds, garages, etc.).

MN Metro Cities That Allow ADUs:

Below is a reference of Metro cities that allow ADUs. Clicking on a cityโ€™s name will take you to that cityโ€™s requirements for building an ADU.

Donโ€™t see your city listed? As ADUs grow in popularity, more and more cities are allowing them. Just because your city isnโ€™t listed above, doesnโ€™t necessarily mean that an ADU isnโ€™t allowed. Call for a design consultation today at 952-746-7817 or contact us online for a project estimate and we will be able to tell you if your city allows for ADU construction.ย 

Note: We are only able to offer assistance on Minnesota residences, we are not able to assist with any out-of-state construction or inquiries.

Titus Contracting and Accessory Dwelling Unitsย 

Considering adding an ADU to your property? There are a lot of factors in play: zoning requirements, building codes, form and function, budget, and timeline. Our expert home remodelers at Titus Contracting are your advocates throughout the entire design and remodeling process. We take pride in our work from start to finish, and at the end of the project, youโ€™ll have your perfect ADU.

Call for a design consultation today at 952-746-7817 or contact us online for a project estimate.


Download Now: Discover ADUsADU eBook Cover Mockup 3D

Your Guide to Unlocking Your Home’s Potential

Love your home, but need more livable space? Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) may be your answer. These additions combine the best elements of apartment and tiny home living, to create independent spaces on your property.

Accessory dwelling units are perfect for:

  • Grandparents/parents who need their own space
  • College-age and young adult children living at home
  • Adding a fully rentable unit to your property, for extra revenue

Discover the power of ADUs with our free guide.

Get the Guide


Titus Contracting is a full-service remodeling company offering commercial and residential construction. We have an office in Burnsville, Minnesota and work throughout the Twin Cities.