ADU Laws in Ohio (2026)
Ohio 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
Ohio does not have a statewide ADU preemption law as of 2026
ADU regulation is left to local municipalities under Ohio Revised Code Chapter 713 (Municipal Planning and Zoning)
Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Dayton, and Akron set their own local ADU ordinances
Ohio Legislature has discussed housing supply legislation but comprehensive statewide ADU mandates had not been enacted as of 2026
Columbus has adopted ADU-friendly zoning provisions allowing backyard cottages and garage conversions
Cincinnati has been updating its zoning code to allow more missing middle housing types including ADUs
Legislative History
2024 — Ohio HB 187 / SB 165 (proposed, not fully enacted as ADU preemption)
Ohio considered several housing supply bills including provisions to allow ADUs and simplify missing middle housing. As of 2026, comprehensive statewide ADU preemption had not been enacted. Some zoning reform provisions were included in broader state legislation.
Official Sources
Source: Ohio State ADU Law. Last verified April 5, 2026. View source