A bill for an act relating to county and city regulation of accessory dwelling units.(See HF 2252.)

House Study Bill 618 (HSB618) was introduced in the Iowa General Assembly to standardize how counties and cities regulate accessory dwelling units (ADUs). ADUs are secondary housing units on the same property as a primary residence, such as in-law suites or garage apartments. The bill aimed to create consistent rules across the state, making it easier for homeowners to add ADUs to their properties. This could help address housing shortages by increasing the availability of affordable housing options. HSB618 was later renumbered as House File 2252 (HF2252) and eventually replaced by Senate File 2369 (SF2369), which was signed into law on April 9, 2026.

Supporters of the bill highlighted its potential to alleviate housing shortages by simplifying the process for homeowners to add accessory dwelling units (ADUs). They argued that standardizing regulations across the state would reduce bureaucratic hurdles, making it easier to increase the housing supply. This, in turn, could provide more affordable housing options for residents. The bill's passage was seen as a proactive step toward addressing the state's housing needs.

Critics expressed concerns that the bill might infringe on local government authority by imposing state-level regulations on counties and cities. They argued that local governments are better positioned to understand and address the unique housing needs of their communities. Additionally, some worried that increased density from ADUs could strain existing infrastructure and alter neighborhood character. These concerns led to debates about the balance between state intervention and local control in housing policy.