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Zoning Guide

ADU Rules in Kodiak, Alaska

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ADU Rules in Kodiak, Alaska

Kodiak is located on Kodiak Island, the second-largest island in the US. It's home to the nation's largest Coast Guard base and a major commercial fishing industry. Housing is scarce on this remote island, making ADUs particularly valuable. The Kodiak Island Borough and City of Kodiak govern land use regulations.

Permitted ADU Types

  • Detached ADU: A standalone structure on the same lot
  • Attached ADU: An addition to the primary home
  • Conversion ADU: Converting an existing accessory structure

Size Limits

ADU Type Maximum Size
Detached ADU 800 sq ft or 50% of primary dwelling
Attached ADU 50% of primary dwelling floor area
Conversion ADU Existing footprint

Setbacks

  • Front: Must comply with base zone standard
  • Side: 5 feet minimum
  • Rear: 15–20 feet minimum

Height

  • Detached ADU: Maximum 25 feet
  • Cannot exceed primary dwelling height

Tsunami and Seismic Hazards

Kodiak has significant natural hazards:

  • Tsunami zones: Low-lying coastal areas are in tsunami inundation zones — development may be restricted
  • Seismic: High seismic risk (Alaska Seismic Zone 4) — all construction must meet seismic design requirements
  • 1964 Earthquake: Kodiak was severely damaged by the 1964 Good Friday earthquake — current building codes reflect this history

Climate

  • Maritime climate with heavy rainfall (60+ inches annually)
  • High winds common — buildings must be designed for wind loads
  • Waterproofing and moisture management are critical

Parking

One off-street parking space required per ADU.

Permit Process

  1. Hazard check: Review tsunami inundation and seismic maps
  2. Zoning check: Confirm eligibility with Kodiak Community Development
  3. Submit plans: Architectural, structural, and site plans
  4. Review: Planning and hazard compliance review
  5. Building permit: Issued by Community Development
  6. Inspections: All required phases including seismic inspections
  7. Certificate of Occupancy: Required before occupancy

Contact

Kodiak Island Borough Community Development Department 710 Mill Bay Rd, Kodiak, AK 99615 Phone: (907) 486-9363 Website: kodiakak.us/community_development

Disclaimer: Verify current requirements with the Kodiak Community Development Department. Seismic and tsunami hazards require specific engineering expertise.

More about Kodiak Zoning

Sources

  1. Kodiak Island Borough Code of Ordinances·library.municode.com·Accessed 2026-04-07·Direct link
  2. Kodiak Island Borough Community Development Department·kodiakak.us·Accessed 2026-04-07·Direct link

FAQ

Are ADUs allowed in Kodiak, Alaska?
Yes. Kodiak permits accessory dwelling units in residential zones. As a remote island community dependent on commercial fishing, housing availability is critical and ADUs serve an important role.
What is the maximum ADU size in Kodiak?
Accessory dwelling units in Kodiak are generally limited to 800 square feet or 50% of the primary dwelling's floor area.
Are there tsunami restrictions for ADUs in Kodiak?
Yes. Parts of Kodiak are in tsunami inundation zones. The 1964 Alaska earthquake caused significant tsunami damage to Kodiak. Development in low-lying coastal areas must account for tsunami hazard.