ADU Rules in Rochester Hills, Michigan

Rochester Hills is an Oakland County city of about 72,000 north of Troy in the northern Detroit suburbs. Home to Oakland University and numerous automotive engineering facilities (major Tier 1 suppliers), Rochester Hills is one of Michigan's most affluent communities. Rochester is a separate, smaller city to the northeast. Michigan has no statewide ADU preemption law — Rochester Hills's local Zoning Ordinance governs.

Rochester Hills vs. Rochester

• Rochester Hills: Larger city (~72,000) with Oakland University — use Rochester Hills's permit process
• Rochester: Smaller separate city (~13,000) — different Zoning Ordinance
• Verify which jurisdiction your property falls in

Rochester Hills Zoning Ordinance

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

Permitted ADU Types

Per Rochester Hills 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 Rochester Hills's Planning Division.

Size Limits

Per Rochester Hills Zoning Ordinance:

• Maximum floor area per zone
• Lot coverage restrictions

Setbacks

Per Rochester Hills residential zone:

• Rear: Minimum setback
• Side: Minimum setback

HOA Considerations

Rochester Hills has numerous upscale subdivisions with HOAs. Consult your HOA before applying for permits.

Clinton River / Paint Creek

Parts of Rochester Hills near the Clinton River or Paint Creek may be subject to FEMA flood zones and EGLE wetland regulations.

Permit Process

1. Check HOA restrictions: If applicable
2. Verify jurisdiction: Rochester Hills vs. the City of Rochester
3. Verify zoning: Rochester Hills Planning Division
4. Submit plans: Rochester Hills Building Division
5. Building permit and inspections
6. CO: Required before occupancy

Contact

City of Rochester Hills Planning Division 1000 Rochester Hills Drive, Rochester Hills, MI 48309 Phone: (248) 656-4640 Website: rochesterhills.org

Disclaimer: Michigan has no statewide ADU law. Rochester Hills and the City of Rochester are separate municipalities. Verify current ADU standards with Rochester Hills before starting any project.