Everything You Need To Know About ADUs in Pittsburgh

This Fall, Pittsburgh City Council is seeking community feedback as they consider new housing possibilities with Housing Needs Assessment Bill.

Included in the bill are Accessory Dwelling Units, which may be small spaces, but they are could result in big impact for the City of Pittsburgh.

AARP supports the availability of ADUs as an affordable, accessible housing option for people of all ages. ADUs are small houses or apartments that exist on the same property lots as a single-family residence but still provide separate living and independent quarters, and because they tend to be smaller and more affordable than single-family houses, they can be a good housing option for older adults who want to downsize but still live in a neighborhood setting.

We’ve called them guest houses or in-law suites for years. But today they’ve got a new name: Accessory Dwelling Units, or ADUs.

ADUs can be a guest house or rental property. They can provide a home for family members who need care—helping you keep loved ones close while letting them keep their independence. You can learn more about AARP’s resources on ADUs here.

With ADUs currently not permitted by Pittsburgh’s zoning code, your voice is needed to urge City Council to revise its zoning code. Urge your City Councilmember to vote in favor of updating local zoning codes and make it easier to create ADUs in Pittsburgh. More About ADUs:

• According to a March 2024 AARP Mayoral Election Survey in Pittsburgh, 80% of Pittsburgh voters aged 50 and older support a change in local ordinances to allow the creation of ADUs
• According to a 2018 AARP Survey, 77% of seniors wish to stay in their communities. ADUs can help.
• A study in The Appraisal Journal found that adding an ADU raised property values by an average of 51%.
• Because of city ordinances and construction regulations, ADUs will blend into neighborhoods.

Click here to find your Councilperson and give them a call saying you support ADUs in Pittsburgh.