Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Annual Report

We recently released our latest ADU Annual Report, which summaries ADU production in 2022 and discusses key trends we’re seeing in Seattle’s residential zones. Seattle issued permits for 988 ADUs in 2022, a fourfold increase since adopting ADU reform legislation in 2019. The report also includes information about the usage of our pre-approved DADU designs, data on ADUs used as short-term rentals, and initial analysis of ADUs sold as condominium units.

 
We also have results from our survey conducted in partnership with the University of Washington of ADU owners and occupants. This survey helps us understand more about the types of households creating and living in ADUs, how they afforded construction and what they pay in rent, and characteristics of their project related to unit size, construction method, and vehicle usage and parking.
 
Looking ahead, insights from recent ADU production will inform OPCD’s work supporting Mayor Harrell’s housing subcabinet, an interdepartmental effort to remove barriers to housing production, and our work leading the One Seattle Plan, a major update of the City’s Comprehensive Plan, where housing choice and affordability is a primary theme.
 
Thank you for your interest in our efforts to encourage ADUs and support housing opportunity.