Concerns development of accessory dwelling units.

New Jersey Assembly Bill A2489 would permit accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on lots with single-family homes, requiring municipalities to allow these second homes as long as they meet specific size and design standards (minimum 30% of the main home's floor area or 1,000 square feet, with independent living facilities including sleeping, cooking, and sanitation spaces). The bill prohibits municipalities from requiring passageways between units, more than one parking space for ADUs, familial relationships between occupants, or separate utility billing, while allowing local governments to opt out with a two-thirds vote and public hearing. It also specifies that ADUs built after January 1, 2022, would count as studio apartments toward municipalities' affordable housing requirements, and clarifies that ADUs shouldn't be considered new residential units for utility connection fees. This bill directly affects homeowners, developers, and municipalities in New Jersey by changing how accessory units can be developed and regulated.