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Permits For Accessory Dwelling Units
All neighborhoods in the country will require permits for accessory dwelling units, commonly referred to as ADUs. Here is the general permitting process for accessory dwelling units;
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Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are secondary housing units built on the same lot as a primary residential structure. They are known by various names, including granny flats, in-law suites, backyard cottages, or secondary suites. Here’s a breakdown of what they are, their benefits, and considerations when building one:
Characteristics of ADUs:
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Separate Living Space:
- ADUs are fully functional housing units with their own entrances, bathrooms, kitchens, and living spaces.
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Types:
- Detached ADU: A separate building from the primary house.
- Attached ADU: Built as an addition to the main house but with a separate entrance.
- Interior Conversion: Constructed within the existing structure, like converting a basement or garage.
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Size:
- Often smaller than the primary residence, typically ranging between 400-1,200 square feet, depending on local zoning laws.
Benefits of ADUs:
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Income Generation:
- Homeowners can rent out ADUs for additional income.
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Housing Options:
- Provides housing for family members (e.g., elderly parents or adult children) while offering privacy.
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Increased Property Value:
- Properly designed and permitted ADUs can increase the resale value of a property.
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Sustainable Living:
- Helps address housing shortages in urban areas by increasing housing density without requiring new land.
Considerations When Building an ADU:
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Zoning Laws and Permits:
- Check local zoning regulations and building codes to ensure compliance with requirements like size, setback, and occupancy.
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Cost:
- Construction costs vary widely based on size and type, but you should budget for building, utility connections, and design fees.
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Financing:
- Some financing options include home equity loans, refinancing the main property, or local incentive programs.
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Utilities:
- Plan for separate or shared utilities and ensure infrastructure can handle additional usage.
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Impact on Neighbors:
- Consider the potential effect on neighborhood aesthetics, parking, and privacy.
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Rental Regulations:
- Review local short-term and long-term rental rules, especially if renting out the ADU is a primary motivation.
ADUs provide flexible and practical housing solutions, whether for accommodating extended family members or generating rental income. They require careful planning and adherence to local regulations, but with proper management, they can be a beneficial addition to many properties.
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DO ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITS NEED PERMITS
Yes, in most jurisdictions, accessory dwelling units (ADUs) require permits to be legally built or converted. Here are some key points about getting permits for ADUs:
Building Permit: An ADU is considered an addition or new construction, so a building permit is almost always required before any work can start. This ensures the ADU meets all building codes.
Zoning Approval: Many areas have specific zoning rules about where ADUs can be located on the property and what size/height limitations exist. Zoning approval verifies the ADU meets these requirements.
Other Permits: Depending on the work involved, additional permits may be needed for electrical, plumbing, mechanical systems, etc. A permit ensures this work is done properly.
Illegal Units: Building an ADU without proper permits can result in fines and potentially having to remove the unpermitted construction if caught by code enforcement.
Exceptions: Some cities have relaxed ADU permit rules or created expedited processes for certain types of ADUs in order to incentivize their construction for adding housing supply.
The specific ADU permit requirements, fees, and processes vary considerably by municipality, so it’s essential to check with your local planning/building department before starting any ADU project. Getting the right permits upfront avoids potential issues down the road.
