FAQ Topic: Planning main page accordion

I live in a development with a homeowners association (HOA). Does the ADU or JADU need approval from the homeowners associations?

Please check with your homeowners association. In general, HOAs cannot prohibit the construction of an ADU or JADU.

Do ADUs require pedestrian access from the street?

Yes, ADUs must have pedestrian access from the street.

Do I have to provide parking for an ADU? Am I exempt from parking?

For ADUs, one parking space is required for newly constructed units unless the unit is: Within 1/2 mile of public transit. Created within the area of an existing building. In a historic district. Not offered an on-street parking permit when one is required. On the same block as a car share. A studio unit. No … Continued

Can I build an ADU on the side of my house or in the front yard?

Attached ADU – An attached ADU can be built on any side of the house, but all required setbacks apply. Detached ADU – A detached ADU is generally constructed behind the primary residence, however due to existing conditions and site constraints, they may be permitted in other areas provided all development standards are met.

Can I have more than one ADU or JADU on a property?

Up to one ADU and one JADU per lot developed with a single-family residence. Up to eight detached ADUs are allowed on properties with multifamily units, not to exceed the total number of primary units, and up to 25% of the existing units in the multifamily building through conversion of existing non-habitable space. JADUs are … Continued

What types of ADUs are there?

There are generally two types of ADUs: Conversion of existing permitted space, including an accessory structure or a portion of the existing primary residence into an ADU A new attached or detached ADU

What is a Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU)?

A JADU is a residential dwelling unit that is no more than 500 square feet in area, contained entirely within a proposed or existing single-family dwelling or attached garage, and can have bath/sanitation facilities that are either separate or shared with the existing single-family dwelling.

What is an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)?

An Accessory Dwelling Unit or ADU is an attached or detached residential dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons, is located on a parcel in conjunction with a proposed or existing principal residence and includes permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation. An ADU may also include … Continued

Have questions? Please review the list of Frequently Asked Questions

List of FAQs

Resources for Historic Property Owners

Best Practices for Historic Additions and Viewsheds