ADU Laws in Iowa (2026)
Iowa state ADU law details, key provisions, preemption status, and recent legislative changes for accessory dwelling units.
Law Name
State ADU Law
Preempts Local Ordinances
No — local rules may be stricter
Has State Law
Yes
Key Provisions
Iowa does not have a statewide ADU law as of 2026
ADU regulation is left entirely to local municipalities
Iowa Code Chapter 414 (City Zoning) grants municipalities authority over local zoning and land use
Des Moines, Iowa City, Cedar Rapids, and Davenport set their own local ADU ordinances
Iowa has been discussing housing supply initiatives but statewide ADU mandates had not been enacted as of 2026
Iowa City has historically been more progressive on housing density, with ADU-friendly local provisions
Official Sources
Source: Iowa State ADU Law. Last verified April 5, 2026. View source