Information

ADUs Laws & Regulations

DEFINING THE ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT

Under new California state laws, the term “accessory dwelling unit” describes a small, self-contained residential unit located on the same lot as an existing single-family home. An ADU is generally smaller in size while still including all of the basic amenities found in a primary dwelling, such as a kitchen, bathroom and sleeping area.
Today, ADUs go by several names: granny unit, granny flat, in-law suite, in-law cottage, mother-in-law apartment, or secondary dwelling unit. Historically, each of these terms had a unique meaning depending upon the city or county in which the primary dwelling was located. Nowadays, however, they are often used interchangeably.

CALIFORNIA LAW & ITS EFFECT ON ADUS

Existing California law permits the construction of ADUs. However, local ordinances have – perhaps unintentionally – made it difficult for homeowners to build new units by imposing standards at the city and county level to regulate parking, construction, and lot coverage.

Fortunately, in September 2016, Governor Jerry Brown signed three ADU-related bills in an effort to address California’s housing crisis. These new bills also make it easier for California homeowners to obtain permission for ADU construction from local governing bodies.

Senate Bill 1069 reduces or eliminates parking requirements and utility hook-up fees. It also speeds up the approval process for second units attached to a primary residence.

Assembly Bill 2299 goes further than SB1069, requiring local second-unit ordinances to include ministerial, non-discretionary approval for any second unit that meets city requirements.

Assembly Bill 2406 streamlines the process for homeowners converting an existing bedroom into an attached studio living unit.

All of these laws intend to limit the ability of local government to regulate ADUs and local governments are required to adopt an ADU ordinance in accordance with the new state requirements by January 1, 2017. Additionally, these laws will speed up the approval process of ADU construction. They will also remove secondary utility hook-up fees that have been paid for by the primary dwelling owners. Furthermore, the laws will eliminate parking requirements for ADUs located in proximity to public transit. Visit here for the most updated information on the ADU Laws from the California Legislature. Hauser ADU is staying on top of the local zoning ordinances in Santa Clara County, with an eye on those successfully promoting the construction of ADUs.

Check out the latest on ADU development in your city:

Potential Income

Adding Value to Your Home: Very few people are aware of the added value an ADU can bring to their property. As an example: the appraisal can be as high as 1 to 3 times the cost of the ADU and that value is added to the value of the existing home. Another reason is the high rental income in California. In fact, the number one reason people are building ADU’s is to live in the ADU and rent out their main home.


Lot Splits Can Bring Value and Income to Your Property:

Besides rental income and increased property value Senate Bill 9 allows for lot splits where you can now have up to 4 units after the Lot split. We are expert developers and can advise you correctly if this is proper for you and your financial goals. Give us a call and we will be glad to assist you.

Why Buy Ordinary When You Can Have Extraordinary At Ordinary Prices?

100% Financing

Roi 1 to 3 times greater cost

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