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Bill

HB 1709

LOCAL-ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS

104th Regular Session Introduced by Kam Buckner and 3 co-sponsors

Illinois bill permits municipalities to authorize accessory dwelling units on single-family residential lots through local zoning ordinances to increase housing supply and homeowner income options.

Rule 19(a) / Re-referred to Rules Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 1709

Legislative bill overview

HB 1709 would authorize Illinois municipalities to allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs)—secondary residential structures on single-family residential lots, such as basement apartments, garage conversions, or detached cottages. The bill grants local governments discretionary power to permit ADUs through zoning ordinances rather than imposing a statewide mandate, allowing each community to set its own standards.

Why is this important

ADU legalization addresses housing affordability and supply constraints in Illinois by enabling property owners to generate income through rental units while increasing the housing stock without requiring new land development. This approach provides flexibility for aging homeowners to downsize while renting their main residence, helps young families afford homeownership in high-cost areas, and can strengthen neighborhood economic diversity.

Potential points of contention

  • Local control vs. housing advocates' concerns: While preserving municipal zoning authority may appeal to homeowners and local officials, housing advocates may argue the optional approach results in insufficient ADU adoption and leaves housing shortages unaddressed in resistant communities
  • Neighborhood character and density: Opponents worry ADUs will increase residential density, strain parking and utilities, and alter neighborhood aesthetics, though proponents counter that ADUs are typically modest additions that provide needed housing on already-developed lots
  • Rental market and property tax implications: Questions exist about how ADU regulations affect property valuations for tax purposes, whether they enable speculative real estate practices, and how they impact rental markets for traditional multi-family housing

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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