Low Density
Existing Home Conversions
Single-Family Housing Conversions
Form: Single-family units that are converted into two or more individual units. Unlike ADUs, which may convert part of a primary residence into a secondary unit, housing conversions convert a primary unit into multiple units. Unit entrances may be internal or external to the building. From the outside units will appear as a single family detached or attached unit.
Local presence: Single-family housing conversions can be found throughout the county, primarily in urban centers. While these units are often converted into rental properties, the individual units can be sold as condos.
Zoning considerations: Municipalities will need to determine in what zoning districts conversions are most appropriate, access to utilities, and if additional parking will be required. Ordinance standards related to the conversion should be clear so that the applicant, municipality, and community understand expectations and results. Additionally, municipalities should consider specific parameters related to lot size, eligible structures, and unit size. Maximum residential densities should be established using a maximum density per lot and/or minimum floor area. Other potential standards include: only allowing one front door to face the street, requiring fire escapes to be to the rear, and requiring utility meters to be to the rear. Zoning ordinances, subdivision and land development ordinances, historic resource provisions, and design guidelines should be consistent in addressing allowance of residential conversions. When buildings proposed for residential conversion are identified as historic resources, or located in identified historic areas, exterior building design guidelines and/or consultation with the municipal historic commission or committee should be encouraged early in design.
See eTool: Adaptive Reuse
Zoning ordinance examples
- Pennsbury Township: Permits residential conversions for historic resources to incentivize their retention and rehabilitation in zoning (Section 162-1705). Specific provisions related to the conversion are contained in Supplemental Uses Standards (Section 162-2036). The definition of the term includes conversion of a single-family home or of a barn into two apartments.
- Tredyffrin Township: Permits residential conversion of existing single-family dwellings into no more than four-dwelling units in several zoning districts by special exception. Specific provisions related to the conversion are contained in General Provisions (Section 208-106).
