The Richmond City Council approved a Special Use Permit for 618 South Laurel Street, allowing the construction of an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) above a two-car garage on the same lot as a two-family dwelling. This approval was necessary as ADUs are only permitted by-right for single-family detached dwellings in the R-7 zoning district. The ADU is a 418-square-foot studio apartment accessed via an exterior staircase. The project aligns with the Richmond 300 Master Plan’s goals of increasing housing diversity and density in walkable urban neighborhoods.
This decision supports the expansion of housing options in Richmond while preserving the neighborhood’s existing character. The project encourages the efficient use of land and provides an additional affordable housing unit without altering the historic structure on the property.