ADU Rules in Lansing, Michigan

Lansing is the Ingham County seat and Michigan's state capital, with a population of about 113,000 on the Grand River in central Michigan. Adjacent to East Lansing (home of Michigan State University, a separate city), Lansing is the seat of state government and home to major automotive manufacturing (Lansing Grand River Assembly). Lansing and East Lansing are entirely separate cities. Michigan has no statewide ADU preemption law — Lansing's local Zoning Ordinance governs.

Lansing vs. East Lansing

• Lansing: State capital, separate city — use Lansing's permit process
• East Lansing: Separate city to the east, home to Michigan State University — different Zoning Ordinance
• Do not confuse: permits from one city are not valid in the other

Lansing Zoning Ordinance

The City of Lansing Zoning Ordinance governs all land use in Lansing city limits.

Permitted ADU Types

Per Lansing Zoning Ordinance (verify current standards):

• Accessory apartments: Within or attached to primary structure
• Detached accessory dwelling units: Subject to zoning standards

Verify current provisions with Lansing's Planning Division.

Size Limits

Per Lansing Zoning Ordinance:

• Maximum floor area per zone
• Lot coverage restrictions

Setbacks

Per Lansing residential zone:

• Rear: Minimum setback
• Side: Minimum setback

Grand River / Red Cedar River Flood Zones

Parts of Lansing near the Grand River or Red Cedar River may be in FEMA flood zones. Verify flood map status.

Michigan Wetlands

Properties near rivers, streams, or wetlands may require EGLE review.

Historic Districts

Lansing has historic districts. Verify historic status with Lansing's Historic District Commission.

Permit Process

1. Verify jurisdiction: Confirm property is in Lansing (not East Lansing)
2. Verify zoning: Lansing Planning Division
3. Check flood zone: If near Grand River or Red Cedar River
4. Historic review: If in a historic district
5. Submit plans: Lansing Building Safety Office
6. Building permit and inspections
7. CO: Required before occupancy

Contact

City of Lansing Planning Division 316 N. Capitol Avenue, Lansing, MI 48933 Phone: (517) 483-4141 Website: lansingmi.gov/departments/planning

Disclaimer: Michigan has no statewide ADU law. Lansing and East Lansing are separate cities. Verify current ADU standards with the City of Lansing before starting any project.