ADU Rules in Ohio (2026)
ADU rules in Ohio — no statewide ADU law. Regulation is entirely local. Key provisions and city-specific frameworks for accessory dwelling units.
Law Name
Preempts Local Ordinances
No — local rules may be stricter
Has State Law
No — regulation is local
Statewide Preemption Status Unconfirmed
No statewide preemption statute was confirmed for this jurisdiction — regulation is local. Local governments retain full authority to set their own rules.
Local Control Framework
Ohio does not have a statewide ADU preemption law as of 2026 · Source
ADU regulation is left to local municipalities under Ohio Revised Code Chapter 713 (Municipal Planning and Zoning) · Source
Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Dayton, and Akron set their own local ADU ordinances · Source
Ohio Legislature has discussed housing supply legislation but comprehensive statewide ADU mandates had not been enacted as of 2026 · Source
Columbus has adopted ADU-friendly zoning provisions allowing backyard cottages and garage conversions · Source
Cincinnati has been updating its zoning code to allow more missing middle housing types including ADUs · Source
Legislative History
2024 — Ohio HB 187 / SB 165 (proposed, not fully enacted as ADU preemption) · Source
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. · Source
Source: Ohio Local Zoning Authority. Last verified April 5, 2026. View source