An illegal dwelling unit is defined as ___.

An illegal dwelling unit is defined as a situation where more units are found in a building than the building is licensed to have. This definition emphasizes compliance with local housing regulations and zoning laws, which are established to ensure safety standards and appropriate living conditions. When a property exceeds its licensed capacity, it may pose health and safety risks to occupants, leading to potential overcrowding and inadequate facilities. This context underlines the importance of proper licensing and adherence to regulations, as they are designed to maintain order and safeguard community wellbeing.

The other definitions do not accurately capture the criteria established by regulatory standards for what constitutes an illegal dwelling. Lacking a private bathroom, not having a closet, or being a matter of opinion does not inherently determine the legality of a dwelling unit in terms of occupancy and licensing issues. These factors may relate to livability but do not provide a clear basis for defining legality in line with municipal codes.