<body><div><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=13VFDk_1BC4s74Y00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=13VFDk_1BC4s74Y00" width="512" height="342" ></figure>Hey Fitchburg neighbors—did you know you can now build a smaller, second home on your property?Last year, the City of Fitchburg Common Council approved Accessory Dwelling Units, or ADUs, under Ordinance 2025-O-17. These are small, independent living spaces located on the same lot as a primary home—like a backyard cottage, a basement apartment, or a unit above a garage.This change opens up new options for homeowners—and it’s one practical way we can address our housing challenges locally. What is allowed in Fitchburg?<ul><li>One ADU per property</li><li>Must meet residential building codes and be a permanent structure</li><li>Must have proper utilities like water and sewer connections</li><li>The ADU cannot be sold separately from the main home</li><li>Must match the look and character of the primary house</li><li>The maximum square footage of an ADU is limited to no more than 75% of the main home</li></ul>There are also clear rules on entrances, setbacks, and design to ensure ADUs fit into our neighborhoods.<h2>Why ADUs matter</h2>Research from Habitat for Humanity and AARP shows ADUs are more than just an extra unit—they’re a practical solution to real housing needs:More affordable housing options: ADUs cost significantly less to build than new homes because they don’t require new land and are smaller in size. That often means lower rents.Housing that actually gets used long-term: Most ADUs are rented to long-term tenants—not short-term rentals—helping stabilize neighborhoods.<ul><li>Extra income for homeowners: ADUs can provide steady rental income to help cover mortgages, property taxes, or unexpected expenses.</li><li>Help for seniors to stay in Fitchburg: ADUs allow older adults to downsize, stay close to family, or live with support while maintaining independence.</li><li>Support for working families: They make it easier to house adult children, caregivers, or relatives—something more families are relying on today.</li><li>Better use of existing neighborhoods: ADUs add housing without major new development, using existing infrastructure and preserving neighborhood character.</li><li>Flexible over time: An ADU can adapt as your needs change—housing family now, generating income later, or providing a place to age in place.</li><li>Adaptable use over time as family needs change</li></ul><h2>Why build an ADU on your property?</h2>There are many good reasons to add an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) to a home property:More living space. An ADU gives family members or guests their own private place to stay if they need to live with you for a while.Extra income. You can rent out the ADU to earn additional monthly income.Improvement to property value. A well-built ADU can increase your property's value and may help you sell it for more in the future.Like many communities, Fitchburg is feeling the pressure of a tight housing market. There’s no single fix—but ADUs are part of a smart, practical approach. They allow us to add housing gradually, one property at a time, while keeping neighborhoods stable and familiar.Fitchburg has taken a meaningful step forward. ADUs give residents more flexibility, more opportunity, and more ways to stay in the community they love. Now the question is: how can we make the most of it?Find out more at fitchburgwi.gov/DocumentCenter/View/29094/2025-O-17?bidId=Contact the Fitchburg Planning Department at planning@fitchburgwi.gov or 608-270-4200. Planning staff can guide you through requirements, permits, and next steps.</div></body>

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Hey Fitchburg neighbors—did you know you can now build a smaller, second home on your property?. Last year, the City of Fitchburg Common Council approved Accessory Dwelling Units, or ADUs, under Ordinance 2025-O-17. These are small, independent living spaces located on the same lot as a primary home—like a backyard cottage, a basement apartment, or a unit above a garage.

City allowing accessory dwelling units

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Hey Fitchburg neighbors—did you know you can now build a smaller, second home on your property?. Last year, the City of Fitchburg Common Council approved A

City allowing accessory dwelling units

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