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OPPORTUNITIES Given the relatively low awareness of ADUs in the Twin Cities region, targeted outreach and promotions around ADU benefits can go a long way. Most people are not familiar with ADUs, and those who are familiar may have a narrow view of ADUs being limited to above -garage apartments. Targeting outreach around the different forms ADUs can take could make a big difference. Continuing to support tours of successfully built ADUs can create exposure for individuals interested in building on their property. Senior citizens represent an ideal market to target for ADUs because they may be interested in adapting their property for aging in place or for multigenerational living and have enough home equity or savings to finance construction. Seniors may be aware of ADU options, due in large part to the AARP's advocacy, but they tend to underestimate costs and are less equipped to navigate the complicated process. Educating homebuilders around the benefits of ADUs for new construction may lead to basements designed as a separate unit or for a future conversion. This is a less expensive alternative and may allow for larger unit sizes. Streamlining permitting and approval processes on city websites and at a regional scale would create significant efficiencies. Nineteen different municipalities offer different rules and models which is inefficient and difficult for developers and homeowners to navigate. Pre -approved ADU plans may benefit and incentivize homeowners interested in building an ADU. The Twin Cities also has several local developers that offer turn -key ADU products and could be part of a larger coalition to promote ADUs. Adjusting ADU rules and standards in Minneapolis may meet more families' needs in constructing ADUs. For example, increasing the 10 percent lot coverage rule for accessory structures to 20 percent would help families build larger ADUs. Also, decreasing the 20-foot setback between a detached ADU and the primary house to five feet would align with fire code building separation requirements. The 20-foot standard is an outlier and is problematic for building detached ADUs on smaller lots. Adjusting ADU rules and standards in Saint Paul may also meet more families' needs in constructing ADUs. For example, reconsidering the requirements to dedicate separate water and sewer connections and dedicated sidewalks would be helpful. Clarifying ADU codes, particularly around rear and side -yard setbacks, could also support more ADUs. Incorporating ADU policies in local housing plans would generate more developments. With less than one-third of local cities considering ADU policies in their housing plans, there is significant opportunity for growth. Minnesota Housing Finance Agency is actively working to update rules that would support ADUs, including removing the requirement that home improvement renovations be attached to the primary home. Removing owner occupancy requirements for ADUs across the Twin Cities would foster more housing opportunities for everyone. is