MADISON, WI — A new bill (SB247) introduced in the Wisconsin Legislature could significantly expand access to Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)—small, self-contained housing units often referred to as granny flats or backyard cottages—by creating consistent rules statewide and eliminating municipal prohibitions.

The proposed legislation, introduced by Sen. Kelda Roys (D-Madison), Sen. Melissa Ratcliff (D-Cottage Grove), Sen. Jamie Wall (D-Green Bay) and Sen. Sarah Keyeski (D-Lodi) would require municipalities to allow ADUs in residential zoning districts while preserving their ability to enforce reasonable safety, design, and utility regulations. The move follows similar actions in states like California and Oregon, where ADUs have become key components in addressing housing shortages and supporting multigenerational living.

ADUs, which are typically smaller, secondary housing units built on single-family lots, have become increasingly popular nationwide for their ability to accommodate aging parents, adult children, caregivers, or renters without the cost of new land acquisition. In states like California, Oregon, and Maine, similar legislation has already transformed backyard housing from a niche market into a vital part of the housing ecosystem.

Local Momentum Reflects Statewide Potential

Communities like Madison, which adopted ADU-friendly zoning reforms in 2023, have already seen a noticeable uptick in demand for secondary housing units. Many homeowners are motivated by the rising cost of elder care, the need to house adult children, or the potential for rental income in a tight housing market.

Surrounding municipalities including Fitchburg, Mt Horeb, and Sun Prairie—are also reviewing their zoning codes in anticipation of increased demand and potential statewide changes.

“ADUs allow cities to grow more sustainably by increasing density without changing the character of single-family neighborhoods,” said a Madison-area planner. “This is the kind of incremental housing that’s sorely needed.”

Leading the ADU Movement: A Look at the local expert

As ADU interest grows in Dane County, Boundless Tiny Homes has emerged as the local go-to expert. The Madison-based builder focuses exclusively on ADUs and backyard homes, offering a streamlined, turn-key process from site planning to construction.

“We don’t just build ADUs—we live and breathe them,” said a Boundless spokesperson. “This isn’t a side project—it’s the entire vision.”

This month alone, the company launched three new ADU and tiny home builds in Madison and is experiencing a sharp rise in inquiries from across Dane County and beyond.

“We recently had a client tell us it took over two months just to get a bid from another builder,” said a spokesperson for Boundless Tiny Homes. “That’s unacceptable and exactly what we work to avoid. We prioritize fast, transparent communication and get homeowners the info they need early so they can move forward with clarity and confidence. Our systems are built to eliminate the delays and frustrations people often face with general contractors or renovators who aren’t familiar with the ADUs.”

Their expertise has also earned academic recognition: earlier this year, Boundless was invited by the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s College of Architecture and Urban Planning to serve as the featured industry expert in a graduate studio on ADU zoning reform and multigenerational housing.

“ADUs aren’t an add-on for us—they’re our specialty,” the spokesperson added. “Our in-house consultants are passionate about building functional, beautiful spaces—and demand has never been stronger.”

A Shift on the Horizon

If the state level bill moves forward, it could transform the regulatory environment for ADUs across the state—streamlining a process that is often hindered by local bans or overly strict requirements. Advocates say such a shift would unlock thousands of potential housing opportunities over the next decade.

As the state considers its next steps, builders, homeowners, and local governments alike are watching closely. And with proven ADU-focused builders like Boundless Tiny Homes already setting the pace, Wisconsin appears poised to join a growing movement toward smarter, more flexible housing.

Media Contact:

Boundless Tiny Homes

press@boundlesstinyhomes.com

Contact Information:

Boundless Tiny Homes

2921 Landmark Place, Suite 215 - #427
Madison, Wisconsin 53713
United States

Devon Lee
+1608-400-0121
http://boundlesstinyhomes.com