ELMIRA, N.Y. (WETM) — The Elmira City Council voted yes to proposed amendments regarding accessory dwelling units. This is intended to create new housing units and provide housing for senior citizens.
An accessory dwelling unit is a smaller secondary housing unit that’s located on the same lot as a primary residential, commercial, or mixed-use structure. It has to have its own entrance and must abide to building code for residential use.
The amendments are intended to create new housing units, provide housing for senior citizens or people with disabilities, and provide housing for family needs in the City of Elmira.
Some requirements with the proposed amendments include that only one accessible dwelling unit is allowed per parcel, can only have a maximum of two bedrooms, and can’t be located on the primary front yard.
The size requirements for an attached unit can’t exceed 40% of the floor area of the primary structure.
For new construction of an accessory dwelling unit that is detached must be 800 square feet or less.
These amendments will go to the City Planning Commission, and the Chemung County Planning Board for review and recommendations.