Frequently Asked Questions

 GOOD NEWS FOR HOMEOWNERS WHO WANT TO ADD AN ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT (ADU). 

        While talking to homeowners about ADU (often called granny’s unit, studio etc.) I often find many clients are being confused by all the nuances. I would like to share the most important points property owner needs to consider  when building or converting an existing ADU or JADU on their lot.

        The new changes to Assembly Bill 670, Section 65852.2 of the Government Code and Section 1798.12 of Health  and Safety Code effective January 1 st 2021 addresses the density increase in the residential zoned areas, further reduce  barriers, better streamline approval process, and expand the capacity to effectively promote development of ADU and  JADU. Another word, they want more people to live on the land

        What is ADU and JADU?

 - ADU is an accessory dwelling unit with complete independent living facilities intended for permanent  occupancy by a second household and has a few variations:

        Detached: The unit is separated from the primary residence.

        Attached: The unit is attached to the primary residence.

        Converted existing space: master bedroom, attached garage, storage area, or similar use, or an  accessory structure on the lot of the primary residence that is converted into an independent living unit.

         ADU size:

 One bedroom will be approved up to 850 sq. ft.

 Two bedrooms will be approved up to 1,000 sq. ft.

 The minimum size of any living unit is 150 sq. ft.

 - JADU (Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit) a conversion must be from existing space that is contained entirely  within an existing or proposed single family residence. The maximum size is 500 sq. ft.

         Home owners are allowed to add ADU or JADU to their properties, regardless of zoning or the size of their lot.  However there may be some restrictions, like the one we ran into due to limitations due to shared well requirement.  There is a handbook available on internet in PDF form published by California Department of Housing and Community  Development

(hcd.ca.gov/policy-reaserch/docs/adu_december_2020_handbook.pdf). AB 670 provides that:

 -CC&Rs not allowing ADU or JADU are void and unenforceable. Every residence may add one ADU, one JADU or  both.

 - Set back from side and rear could be 4 feet. If existing structure is to be converted no setbacks applies.

 -One parking is required and can be provided as tandem parking on a driveway. Conversion of the garage does  not require replacement of parking. Local agencies may eliminate parking requirements.

 -Fire sprinklers are required if they are required for existing residence.

 -If existing residence has a sewage disposal system, than review and approval will be required.

 If you have any questions contact your Building department or call Olan Kaigel owner of Central Coast Building  Plans, 4605 El Camino Real, Atascadero, (805) 703-3749 or email questions to olankaigel@gmail.com.