Michigan House Bill HB5585

Michigan 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/24/26
• Refer: 2/24/26

Caption

Land use: zoning and growth management; zoning restrictions related to accessory dwelling units and mobile homes; modify. Amends sec. 102 of 2006 PA 110 (MCL 125.3102) & adds secs. 207a & 516.

Impact

The proposed changes represent a significant shift in zoning practices at the local level. By preemptively allowing ADUs without discretionary approvals from local authorities, the bill encourages increased housing flexibility in residential zones. Additionally, it prohibits zoning ordinances from imposing aesthetic or material restrictions that may unintentionally exclude mobile homes from these zones, thereby promoting greater inclusiveness in housing options. The impact on local governments could be substantial, as it reduces their ability to regulate housing types based on local community standards.

Summary

House Bill 5585 seeks to amend the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act by modifying regulations related to accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and mobile homes. The bill defines an ADU as a secondary dwelling unit that is incidental to another dwelling on the same parcel and establishes conditions under which an ADU is permissible without the need for public hearings. Specifically, it delineates size restrictions for ADUs, stipulates setback requirements from property lines, and mandates that these units cannot be counted towards local density calculations.

Contention

Debate surrounding HB 5585 centers on the balance of local control versus state mandates. Proponents argue that the bill is necessary to address affordable housing shortages and to provide greater housing options for residents. Opponents, however, express concerns about diminished local governance and the effective loss of community input in zoning matters. This contention reflects broader discussions on housing policy across the state, particularly the implications for neighborhood character and community planning.