Many people have questions as they begin planning for their ADU. To help you get started, we compiled the top questions we have heard over the past few years. We hope they help you understand your ADU options, the process, and what you’ll need to get you started.
Can I build an ADU on my property?
As of 2017, any property that is zoned as a single family residence in California is allowed to build an ADU. Since then, many new bills have been passed that now make it permissible to build ADUs on certain multi-family zoned properties as well as properties in HOA-governed communities.
How long does it take to build an ADU?
The overall timeline for a typical ADU project generally lasts about 6-12 months from start to finish. This includes design, applying for permits, and construction time. Timing mostly depends on the complexity of your ADU project, the municipality you’re located in, and the expertise of your design and construction teams.
How big can my ADU be?
The state of California allows detached ADUs up to a maximum of 1,200 sq ft. The maximum size for attached ADUs is 50% of the square footage of the main dwelling, up to 1,200 sq ft. ADU laws and local city ordinances continue to evolve. Due diligence is required to determine the zoning rules for your property.
How much does an ADU cost?
There are three areas to consider when determining the cost of an ADU: design, permits and construction. Depending on the complexity of your ADU project, design fees can run anywhere between $10,000 to $13,000 or more. Permit fees are highly dependable on a variety of factors regarding your specific property and project type, but can generally run between $4,000 to $8,000 in most cases. Finally, construction costs can run between $300-$350 per sq ft.
What are the pros and cons of a stick build and a prefab unit?
A stick build refers to a dwelling that is constructed from the ground up. A stick-built ADU gives you the flexibility to create a dwelling that is entirely customized to your needs. The design, functionality, look and feel of your ADU will depend entirely on what your goals are for the unit.
For example, an ADU designed for an elderly parent will look very different from a rental unit for local college students. Another thing to consider is the amount of space you have in your lot. If space is an issue, a prefab unit cannot be custom-designed to con-form to any existing dwellings or structures in your yard. Additionally, one common misconception about prefab units is that they cost much less than a stick-built unit.
