ADU Rules in Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Cedar Rapids is the Linn County seat and Iowa's second-largest city with a population of about 136,000 on the Cedar River in eastern Iowa. A major manufacturing and food processing hub (home to Quaker Oats, Ingredion), Cedar Rapids was severely impacted by the 2008 Cedar River flood — the largest flood in Iowa history at that time. Iowa has no statewide ADU preemption law — Cedar Rapids's local zoning governs.

Cedar Rapids Zoning Code

The City of Cedar Rapids Zoning Code governs all land use. Cedar Rapids has been working on post-flood recovery and redevelopment, including updating its zoning code.

Permitted ADU Types

Depending on the residential zone:

• Accessory apartments: Conversion within primary structure
• Detached accessory dwelling units: In rear yards of eligible zones

Verify current ADU provisions with Cedar Rapids's Planning & Development Department.

Size Limits

Accessory dwelling units are subject to:

• Maximum floor area per zone
• Lot coverage restrictions

Verify current limits with Cedar Rapids Planning.

Setbacks

Per Cedar Rapids residential zone (typical):

• Rear: Minimum setback
• Side: Minimum setback
• Accessory structures: Per zoning code

Cedar River Floodplain — CRITICAL

Cedar Rapids has extensive FEMA flood zones along the Cedar River from the historic 2008 flood and ongoing flood risk. Many properties near the Cedar River have been subject to:

• Buyout programs: Some flood-prone parcels were purchased by the city
• FEMA AE flood zones: Strict construction standards apply
• Elevated construction: May be required in AE zones

Verify your property's flood zone status before planning any construction.

Derecho 2020

Cedar Rapids was severely impacted by the August 2020 derecho (straight-line windstorm) that caused widespread tree and structural damage. Some properties may still be in various stages of repair or redevelopment.

Permit Process

1. Check flood zone status: CRITICAL — Cedar River flood zones affect large areas
2. Verify zoning: Cedar Rapids Planning & Development Department
3. Submit plans: Cedar Rapids Building Services Division
4. Building permit and inspections
5. CO: Required before occupancy

Contact

City of Cedar Rapids Planning & Development Department 101 First Street SE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401 Phone: (319) 286-5041 Website: cedar-rapids.org

Disclaimer: Iowa has no statewide ADU law. Cedar Rapids zoning governs locally. Cedar River flood zones affect many properties — verify flood status before planning. Verify current ADU allowances with the City of Cedar Rapids before starting any project.