FAQ Topic: ADU 2020

What is the maximum size for the unit?

If you are adding square footage onto an existing structure to create an attached ADU, the square footage of the ADU cannot exceed 50% of the square footage of the main residence or 1,000 square feet, whichever is less; however, an ADU of up to 800 square feet is always allowed.   Examples:   2,200 square-foot main … Continued

Is there a minimum size for the unit?

There is a minimum size of 150 square feet for ADUs and JADUs. ADUs must include kitchen, sleeping, and bathroom facilities; a JADU may share eating and bathroom facilities with the primary dwelling provided there is an internal connection. 

Are fire sprinklers required?

Fire sprinklers cannot be required in an ADU if sprinklers are not required for the primary residence. Construction of an ADU does cannot trigger a requirement that fire sprinklers be installed in the proposed or existing primary dwelling. 

What if my property isn’t zoned residential but I have a residence on it?

The ADU rules apply to any property that is in a zoning district that allows residential use and has either existing or proposed dwelling units. For example, the Commercial/Office zoning district (C/O) is a commercial district that allows multifamily use under certain circumstances so the rules would apply to an existing or proposed residential use … Continued

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