NC S374

Local governments must allow at least one accessory dwelling unit (ADU) per detached single-family dwelling in residential-zoned areas, which may be built before, during, or after construction of the primary dwelling.

ADUs are exempted from owner-occupancy requirements, minimum parking requirements, and conditional use zoning provisions.

Local governments cannot prohibit utility connections between ADUs and primary dwellings and may only charge building permit fees equivalent to those for similar single-family dwellings.

Local governments may regulate ADUs through other means but cannot impose unreasonable costs or delays that discourage development, and may impose setbacks of 5 feet or the standard lot setback, whichever is less.

Local governments must adopt ordinances and regulations to implement the provisions by October 1, 2023, with the law becoming effective on that date.