Elmhurst Eyes Housing Diversity

ELMHURST, IL – Elmhurst is updating its zoning code, with one of its goals being housing diversity.

To achieve that goal, the city is looking at allowing accessory dwelling units, commonly known as granny flats.

Such homes come with a full kitchen and bathroom. They can be within a house, attached to a house or detached.

The city's draft ordinance would allow such units in local single-family neighborhoods if certain requirements are met.

Such homes are considered a convenient and affordable housing option, according to the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning.

The units can provide housing for older adults, empty nesters and young adults who want to live close to family, the agency said on its website.

Accessory dwelling units are growing in popularity throughout the state, with nearly a dozen towns allowing them, according to the agency.

As of May, no towns in DuPage County allowed such units, though Naperville was considering them, the agency said.

Elmhurst has developed a website about its effort to update zoning rules.