Understanding Milford ADU Regulations and Approval Steps

Thinking about adding a guest suite, rental, or studio on your Milford property? You’re not alone. Accessory dwelling units, or ADUs, are now allowed in Milford, but they follow specific rules and an approval process you should understand before you draw plans. In this guide, you’ll learn what’s allowed, how big you can build, where an ADU can sit on your lot, and the exact steps to apply. Let’s dive in.

ADU basics in Milford

An ADU is a self-contained home on the same lot as a single-family house. Milford formally adopted ADU rules in 2023 and treats them as a conditional use that requires Planning Commission review and a public hearing. The final green light is a zoning compliance certificate after your plan meets all conditions.

• ADUs are a conditional use requiring Planning Commission approval and a public hearing. See Milford’s conditional use framework and standards in Chapter 1195. Review the conditional use section.
• Key standards specific to ADUs are listed in §1195.05(cc). See the ADU standards.

Quick facts:

• One ADU per lot.
• Size limit is the greater of 66% of your home’s living area or 800 square feet.
• No more than one bedroom.
• ADUs must include a living area, a kitchen or kitchenette, and one bathroom.
• Detached ADUs are not allowed in front yards and generally max out at 25 feet in height.
• No new driveway or access point for the ADU; parking is set case by case by the Planning Commission.

Size, placement, and design rules

Size and rooms

• You can build up to the greater of 66% of your principal dwelling’s living area or 800 square feet. For example, if your home has 1,000 square feet of living area, your ADU may be up to 800 square feet. If your home has 2,000 square feet, your ADU may be up to 1,320 square feet.
• The ADU may have up to one bedroom and must include a living area, a kitchen or kitchenette, and a full bathroom. Confirm the ADU standards in §1195.05(cc).

Location and setbacks

• You can place an ADU within your main house or in a detached accessory building on the same lot.
• If you convert space within the existing footprint, typical setback rules do not apply. If you expand a footprint or build new, your project must meet standard setbacks and accessory building rules. Detached ADUs are not permitted in front yards. Review §1195.05(cc).

Height and construction

• Detached ADUs may not exceed 25 feet in height, unless you are converting an existing taller accessory structure without increasing its height.
• Detached ADUs must be permanent construction with permanent utility hookups. Mobile homes and RVs are not allowed as ADUs. See the ADU standards.

Parking and access

• You cannot create a new driveway or access point for the ADU.
• The Planning Commission will decide parking requirements case by case, so show where cars will park on your site plan. Read the ADU standards.

Where ADUs are allowed and who approves

ADUs are listed as conditional uses in Milford, which means they are not automatically allowed by right. You must apply for Planning Commission review and a public hearing, and the Commission may add conditions related to parking, screening, or other neighborhood impacts. Start with Milford’s conditional use process.

A site plan is typically required with your application. It should show property lines, existing and proposed structures, setbacks, utilities, and parking. The Commission can waive a site plan only in limited situations. Check the site plan requirements.

How to apply: step-by-step

1) Do a quick feasibility check

• Confirm your property’s zoning and that ADUs are allowed as a conditional use in your district. See Milford’s use schedules and conditional uses.

2) Meet with Planning/Zoning

• Contact the City’s Zoning Inspector to discuss your concept and request a pre-application meeting. This helps surface setbacks, parking, utilities, and other issues early. Learn the Zoning Inspector’s role.

3) Prepare your application

• Conditional use application narrative addressing how you meet the general standards and the ADU-specific rules.
• Site plan that shows lot lines, structures, setbacks, parking, utilities, and any easements, plus floor plans and elevations if you are building or expanding. Review the site plan checklist.

4) Planning Commission hearing

• Attend the public hearing. The Commission reviews your proposal and may add conditions. If approved, you’ll receive a zoning compliance certificate. See the conditional use review steps.

5) Pull building and technical permits

• After zoning approval, apply for building, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical permits. Work must comply with state building law, and inspections are required before occupancy. Review Ohio’s building authority reference.
• If your property uses a private well or septic, coordinate with Clermont County Public Health for system review and permits. See septic permitting guidance.
• If you need driveway or curb work in the right of way, check with the Clermont County Engineer. Explore ROW and driveway permits.

6) Inspections and occupancy

• Complete required inspections. The city issues final occupancy after you satisfy all conditions and approvals.

Common pitfalls and pro tips

• Expect conditions. Because ADUs are conditional, parking, screening, or occupancy conditions can vary by property. Engage staff early and be prepared to adjust.
• Watch the footprint. Conversions within an existing footprint avoid new setbacks, but any addition or new detached ADU must meet district setbacks and accessory structure rules.
• Plan for utilities. Septic properties may need system upgrades or may be limited. Coordinate with Clermont County Public Health before you finalize plans.

ADU ideas that fit Milford rules

• Convert an existing garage or accessory building without expanding the footprint.
• Finish a basement or part of the main house as an internal ADU with a separate entrance.
• Design smart, one-bedroom layouts with a compact kitchen and full bath to stay within size and program limits.
• Show thoughtful parking on your site plan to support Commission review.

Adding an ADU can create flexible space for multigenerational living, guests, or long-term stays. If you’re planning with future resale in mind, presentation and design matter. If you want a second set of eyes on layout, finishes, or contractor coordination, reach out. I’m here to help you make smart choices that live well today and show beautifully when you sell. Connect with Kelli Hurst to talk through your ADU goals in Milford.

FAQs

What is the size limit for an ADU in Milford?

• The maximum is the greater of 66% of your home’s living area or 800 square feet, with no more than one bedroom. See §1195.05(cc).

Are new driveways allowed for Milford ADUs?

• No. You cannot add a new access point or driveway for an ADU, and the Planning Commission sets parking requirements case by case. Review the ADU standards.

Can I convert my garage or accessory building into an ADU in Milford?

• Yes, if the conversion stays within the existing footprint; additions or new detached units must meet setbacks and other rules. Read §1195.05(cc).

Are RVs or mobile homes permitted as ADUs in Milford?

• No. Detached ADUs must be permanent construction with permanent utility hookups; RVs and mobile homes are not allowed. See the ADU standards.

Do I need a public hearing to get an ADU approved in Milford?

• Yes. ADUs are conditional uses that require Planning Commission review and a public hearing before a zoning compliance certificate is issued. Start with the conditional use process.

What if my Milford property uses a septic system?

• You must coordinate with Clermont County Public Health to confirm capacity and obtain any needed permits or upgrades. See septic permitting guidance.