Nestled in Frederick County, Maryland, Myersville stands out as one of Maryland’s finest places to call home. This charming town exudes a rural charm that appeals to its residents, many of whom take pride in owning their homes. With a mix of families and young professionals, Myersville has a distinct conservative leaning.
Notably, the town boasts highly-rated public schools, making it an ideal haven for families. However, a recent development promises to reshape the town’s housing landscape and possibly the entire state’s to address the pressing need for affordable living spaces.
A New Era of Housing: Myersville Welcomes Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
In a groundbreaking move, Myersville’s local officials have given their seal of approval to ordinances that permit and regulate accessory dwelling units (ADUs) within the town. This momentous decision opens up a world of possibilities, with the potential to significantly expand housing options and increase flexibility for residents.
ADUs, also referred to as granny flats or in-law suites, are compact housing units located on the same property as a primary residence. These ingenious living spaces come in various forms, from charming “tiny houses” tucked away in backyards to apartments perched above garages and even detached living quarters. The versatility of ADUs allows them to serve a multitude of purposes.
Addressing Diverse Housing Needs
Brandon Boldyga, the planning and zoning administrator of Myersville, emphasizes the diverse potential of ADUs. These units offer a lifeline for those caring for elderly relatives, providing both proximity and privacy. For homeowners seeking extra income streams, renting out their ADUs presents a lucrative option. Town Council member Wayne Creadick adds that ADUs can be an ideal solution for aging couples who wish to remain in Myersville but no longer require a large home. Renting out their primary residence while living comfortably in the ADU becomes a viable choice.
Myersville has been grappling with a housing shortage and rising rental costs, making it increasingly challenging for residents to secure suitable accommodations within the town. Brandon Boldyga notes that many have been priced out of the local housing market, leading them to seek more affordable options in neighboring Washington County.
Myersville’s decision to implement ADU regulations was partly influenced by House Bill 90, passed in 2021. This state bill mandated political subdivisions to take affirmative action in promoting fair housing. As a small town without a dedicated housing department, Myersville saw the allowance of ADUs as a practical step toward expanding housing opportunities.
Boldyga believes that Myersville’s pioneering move to embrace ADUs could set an example for other communities across the state. With the growing need for innovative housing solutions, similar initiatives may gain traction in the future.
Statewide Initiative: The Accessory Dwelling Unit Policy Task Force
In 2023, Maryland launched the Accessory Dwelling Unit Policy Task Force, tasked with assessing ADU regulations across the state. This task force will explore best practices for streamlining the ADU application and development review process. Additionally, it will carefully examine potential impacts on single-family neighborhoods, local housing markets, and
neighborhood character.
Key Ordinances for ADUs in Myersville
The ordinances officially approving ADUs in Myersville were passed during a town meeting on November 14th. Some of the key parameters include:
ADUs must not exceed 700 square feet of livable space.
ADUs must be permanent structures, not RVs or campers.
Only one ADU is allowed per residential lot.
Specific rules determine the required spacing between ADUs and surrounding properties.
The approval process for ADUs in Myersville varies depending on the zoning district in which a resident lives:
In the R2 and Village Center zoning districts, which include single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments, ADUs are treated as an accessory use, similar to sheds or swimming pools.
In the R1 and R1-SG districts, which consist exclusively of single-family detached homes, residents looking to build an ADU will need to go through the town Board of Zoning Appeals and seek a special exception.
Myersville’s decision to embrace ADUs represents a forward-thinking approach to housing, addressing both the immediate needs of its residents and the broader housing challenges facing many communities.
As Maryland continues to explore ADU policies, Myersville’s experience may well serve as a valuable blueprint for others looking to create more accessible and diverse housing options.
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