Navigate the often complex world of ADU regulations with ease. Our articles demystify ADU permitting processes, zoning laws, and local ordinances, giving you a clearer path to project approval. Benefit from the knowledge of our seasoned ADU permitting & regulatory team.
California law states that every single family-zoned property is allowed one accessory dwelling unit (ADU) and one junior accessory dwelling unit (JADU) converted from existing space in the home. For multi-family properties, the law allows up to two detached accessory...
Learn about how lot splits and two unit development with SB9 compare to adding accessory dwelling units (ADUs), what are the key points of SB9, what is required to use the law to split your property or add multiple units, and if you can also build an ADU once you...
Granny flats have exploded in popularity recently, thanks to the potential income and additional space they offer homeowners. Unfortunately, the process of building these structures can be more difficult under the watchful eye of your HOA. One of the biggest...
If you’re one of the many who live in a “coastal zone,” the good news is that the Coastal Commission is in alignment with California in supporting affordable housing, including accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Getting a permit for an ADU in the coastal zone is...
You may have heard that the state of California is making an effort to move all new construction in the direction of sustainability and renewable energy. You may also hear mixed information about whether solar is or is not required on accessory dwelling units (ADUs),...
Many homeowners ask if they need to get a survey before proceeding with the planning & permitting process for their accessory dwelling unit (ADU). While you will need a site plan to submit for permits, a boundary survey may or may not be required for ADUs in the...
If you are thinking about building an accessory dwelling unit on your property, it will be important to understand where you are allowed to build. Setbacks and easements, as well as site constraints, will be the biggest factors driving the optimal placement of the...
If you have recently learned that your property can have an accessory dwelling unit (ADU), you may be wondering how large of an ADU you can build and what to think about when determining the size. It's one of the first questions we get from homeowners wanting to make...
Law changes in California over the past several years have made it far easier to add an accessory dwelling unit (also known as an ADU, granny flat, casita, guest house, accessory unit, additional dwelling unit, accessible dwelling unit, mother-in-law suite) to most...
The placement of your detached accessory dwelling unit (ADU, also known as a guest house, casita, in-law suite, or granny flat) can be just as critical as your choice of floorplan and finishes, as there are a number of regulations property owners are required to...
While many fees for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) less than 750 square feet will be waived automatically according to SB13 (more on that below), it is often the case for larger units that fees can approach $20,000. This is typically a combination of sewer connection...
You may have heard that a title report could be required in order to determine where you can build your accessory dwelling unit (ADU), but do you know what this process entails? Read on to learn what a title report is, what information a title report covers, when you...
Owner occupancy requirements on accessory dwelling units (ADUs) have been removed indefinitely due to state regulations. For junior ADUs (JADUs), there is still some ambiguity around what constitutes an owner occupant, and specifically, if certain types of ownership...
Not all properties have the perfect, ADU-friendly lot. However, this does not mean a build is not possible. There are tools and reports you can invest in to ensure you have all information possible regarding your lot, your ADU, and your investment. If you have a...
