Accessory dwelling units

HB 3052 requires West Virginia municipalities to allow at least one accessory dwelling unit (ADU) "by right" on single-family residential lots by January 1, 2026. It prohibits local governments from imposing restrictions like extra parking requirements, design matching rules, occupancy conditions, or impact fees on ADUs, while setting size limits (max 75% of the main house or 1,000 sq. ft.). The bill directly affects homeowners seeking to add secondary housing units and municipalities that currently regulate ADUs more restrictively. It mandates that all ADUs must have basic amenities (cooking, sleeping, sanitation) and comply with building codes, but does not override safety regulations. The law takes effect January 1, 2026, with non-compliant existing regulations voided.