Glossary

A secondary housing unit on a single-family residential lot, also known as a granny flat, in-law suite, or backyard cottage.

Financial products specifically designed for building accessory dwelling units, including home equity loans, construction loans, and specialized ADU loans.

An official approval from local government authorizing construction, renovation, or demolition work on a property.

A document certifying that a building meets all applicable codes and is safe for occupancy.

A permit that allows a land use not normally permitted in a zoning district, subject to specific conditions.

A short-term loan used to finance the building of a home, which converts to a traditional mortgage upon completion.

The ratio of a building's total floor area to the size of the lot it sits on, used to control building density.

The structural base of a building that transfers loads to the ground, including slab-on-grade, crawl space, and basement foundations.

One-time charges imposed by local governments on new development to fund infrastructure improvements.

The percentage of a lot that can be covered by buildings and impervious surfaces like driveways and patios.

A factory-built home constructed to federal HUD code standards, built on a permanent chassis.

A factory-built home constructed in sections and assembled on-site, built to the same building codes as traditional homes.

A residential building designed to house multiple separate families in distinct units, such as duplexes, triplexes, and apartment buildings.

A building that produces as much renewable energy as it consumes annually through solar panels, efficient design, and energy storage.

A self-sufficient lifestyle independent of public utilities, generating own power, water, and waste management.

The process where local building officials examine construction plans to ensure they comply with building codes before issuing permits.

A residential zoning classification typically reserved for single-family detached homes with the lowest allowed density.

The minimum distance a building must be positioned from property lines, streets, or other structures as mandated by local zoning codes.

The process of preparing land for construction, including clearing, grading, and utility connections.

Building design and electrical systems pre-configured for easy future solar panel installation.

A small dwelling typically under 400 square feet, which may be built on a foundation or on wheels.

A legal exception to zoning regulations granted by local authorities when strict application of the code would cause undue hardship.