ARE THERE RULES I NEED TO KNOW ABOUT ADUS?

YES! There are a lot of rules about building ADUs. The rules are meant to make buildings safe, to keep cities working properly, and to encourage pleasant living conditions in neighborhoods.

California has a state level policy on Accessory Dwelling Units, but there are also hundreds of independent jurisdictions each with their own unique rules and restrictions. While basic building codes are the same throughout California, local jurisdictions can adopt additional requirements along with their own local interpretations.

As the owner, you will have many decisions to make when building an ADU, and each may involve a rule (or two!) that could affect your choices. While the rules are all publicly available, they can be challenging to find and interpret for a specific property. Working with a local design professional will give you a head start in understanding your community’s rules and requirements from the beginning of your project.

AN ARCHITECT WITH ADU EXPERTISE CAN SHOW YOU THE POSSIBILITIES WITHIN THE STATE and LOCAL RULES.

OK, BUT WHAT ARE THE RULES?

Rules for ADUs fall under these general categories:

LOCATION

ZONING CODE

BUILDING CODE

ENERGY

LOT SIZE

ADU SIZE

DESIGN

PARKING

FIRE PROTECTION

UTILITIES

CCRs & HOAs

USE

This abbreviated list of rules is just the beginning of all the regulations to consider when building an ADU. By visiting California Department of Housing and Community Development’s website, you’ll find more information about ADUs, including some concise summaries of California laws.

This is why it’s important to work with a professional who knows how to find, understand, interpret, and when necessary, ask for deviations from the rules.

The American Institute of Architects has a local chapter in every part California, and your local AIA Chapter will happily share references to qualified AIA architects that can navigate the rules applying to ADUs.

For information on your local AIA Component, click FIND AN ARCHITECT below.

Next, we’ll talk about the dollars and cents involved in making an ADU possible! Click to jump to the MONEY page.

For information on your local AIA Component, click FIND AN ARCHITECT below.

Next, we’ll talk about the dollars and cents involved in making an ADU possible! Click to jump to the MONEY page.