Nebraska’s two largest cities are making it easier for homeowners to add accessory dwelling units, or ADUs, to their properties.

Often called mother-in-law suites or backyard cottages, ADUs are independent living spaces with their own entrance, bathroom and cooking area. The units allow older adults to live near family while maintaining their independence.

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Todd Stubbendieck, state director of AARP Nebraska, said modern zoning has largely pushed these units out of existence or made them too difficult to build, so the organization began supporting solutions.

“In 2024, we supported efforts in Omaha, and Lincoln has followed suit here this year to ease those zoning restrictions and make it easier for folks to build those,” Stubbendieck explained.

The units remain limited to one bedroom and no more than 800 square feet, or 40% of the primary home, whichever is smaller. Under Lincoln’s rules, ADUs must also share utilities with the main home and require an additional parking space. The property owner must live on-site and deed restrictions may apply.

Wanting to remain at home and being able to do so are two different things. Stubbendieck pointed out two major barriers can stand in the way of aging in place.

“People are leaving their home because they can no longer live there. They're leaving their home and having to go into some sort of congregate setting because their homes are no longer safe, or they don't have that ability to get outside of their home. There aren't transportation options that will help support them to age in place,” Stubbendieck outlined.

AARP reported more than six in 10 U.S. adults would consider building or living in an ADU to be close to someone while maintaining their own space, or if they needed help with daily activities. Just over half would consider it to save money.