At a recent City Council discussion, the Council reviewed the implications of the Maryland Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) Act of 2025 (HB 1466) and is preparing to send a formal letter to Prince George’s County’s ADU Task Force to help shape how this new law is implemented locally.

This is an important moment—not just for policymakers, but for homeowners—because Prince George’s County is now developing the rules that will determine how ADUs will work in our neighborhoods.

What is an ADU?

Many residents have recently started hearing more about ADUs. Under the new state law, Prince George’s County will be required to allow at least one ADU on single-family lots, such as a basement apartment or backyard cottage.

The Maryland ADU Act defines an ADU as a separate, independent residential unit on the same lot as a primary home. To qualify, it must include:

  • Its own entrance
  • A kitchen or kitchenette
  • A bathroom
  • A sleeping area
  • Compliance with building, safety, and zoning codes

These units are designed to function as complete living spaces within existing residential properties.

What the State Law Does—and Doesn’t Do

The state law establishes a minimum requirement—ADUs must be allowed. However, it leaves many of the key details up to the County.

Prince George’s County will decide:

  • Design standards
  • Parking requirements
  • Owner-occupancy rules
  • Safety inspections and licensing
  • Limits on short-term rentals

This means the most important decisions are still being made at the local level.

City Council Taking Action

As part of this process, the College Park City Council will send a letter to the County’s ADU Task Force, outlining the City’s priorities and concerns. This ensures that College Park has a voice as the County develops its final regulations.

The letter reflects the Council’s intent to strike a balance—supporting additional housing options while protecting neighborhood stability, safety, and character.

Why This Matters for College Park

ADUs can bring real benefits:

  • More affordable housing options
  • Opportunities for multigenerational living
  • Additional income for homeowners

At the same time, without thoughtful rules, they can create challenges:

  • Increased parking demand
  • Overcrowding
  • Changes to neighborhood character
  • Impacts on property values

In a city like College Park, where housing demand is already high, getting these policies right is especially important.

This Is the Moment to Get Involved

The Prince George’s County ADU Task Force is currently reviewing how to implement the law, and their recommendations are not final. This is the window where community input can still shape the outcome.

What Homeowners Can Advocate For

As the County develops its regulations, residents can support policies that ensure ADUs are integrated responsibly, including:

  • Owner-occupancy requirements
  • Limits on short-term rentals
  • Parking and traffic safeguards
  • Architectural and privacy standards
  • Licensing, inspections, and enforcement for safety

These are all areas where the County has full authority to act.

College Park Is Already Engaged

College Park has already begun discussions and is actively participating in the process—along with neighboring communities like Hyattsville—to ensure local perspectives are considered.

Stay Informed and Make Your Voice Heard

Residents are encouraged to stay engaged as the County continues its work. You can:

  • Watch recordings of ADU Task Force meetings
  • Review materials and recommendations
  • Reach out to your Prince George’s County representatives

👉 Watch the latest ADU Task Force meeting and see member details here:
https://pgccouncil.us/1093/Accessory-Dwelling-Units-Task-Force

Looking Ahead

ADUs are coming—it’s no longer a question of if, but how. The decisions made now will shape our neighborhoods for years to come.

By engaging early, both the City and residents can help ensure that ADUs:

  • Expand housing opportunities
  • Maintain neighborhood quality
  • Align with College Park’s long-term vision

We all deserve a voice in how these changes are implemented in Prince George’s County.