In her FY 22 and FY 23 budgets, Mayor Bowser provided over $2.5 million in funding for the establishment of an accessory dwelling unit pilot program. This initiative, the Residential Accessory Apartments Program (RAAP), will support the creation of residential accessory apartments at existing residential properties throughout the District.

Residential accessory apartments, also known as accessory dwelling units, are dwelling units that are secondary to the principal home in terms of area, use, and physical character, but have separate kitchens and baths and have a separate entrance.

Through the RAAP, the District will fund the renovation or creation of accessory dwelling units for residents of all incomes, however residents with incomes above 120% of the Median Family Income (MFI) must rent their accessory dwelling units to households with incomes below 60% of the MFI. Income limits can be found here.

Eligibility
You are eligible for the RAAP if all of the following are true:

• You own a home in a R zone in the District of Columbia;
• Your home is not a condominium;
• Your home has been your primary residence for the past three years or more;
• You have homeowners insurance for your home;
• You are a DC resident;
• You are up to date on your District and federal taxes;
• You have evidence that shows you are current on your mortgage payments for the past 12 months; and
• The level of renovation or construction needed for the accessory apartment to meet all required codes does not exceed $120,000;

A range of project types will be selected for evaluation. A smaller number of projects will be awarded funds and assistance based on project feasibility. This is a pilot program and not all eligible projects will be selected.

Apply!
Residents who have own their home and are interested in the program can apply at the following link: RAAP Application 2023.

You will fill out a short survey which will provide us with information about you and your home.

Contact Us
Need help completing the application, or have a general question about the program? Please email us at [email protected], or call DHCD at (202) 442-7200.