Applying for an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit) permit involves several steps, including understanding local regulations, preparing necessary documents, and navigating the review process. Below, we explain these steps in detail.
An ADU is a secondary housing unit on a single-family residential lot. These units can provide additional living space, rental income, or accommodate family members. Obtaining the necessary permits is a crucial first step in the ADU construction process.
Prepare the Permit Application
Fill out the ADU Permit Application Form: Begin by obtaining the ADU permit application form from your local planning or building department’s website or office. Carefully read through the instructions and fill out all required fields with accurate information. This form will typically ask for details about the property, the proposed ADU, and the purpose of the unit.
Provide Proof of Property Ownership: Submit documentation that verifies you are the legal owner of the property where the ADU will be constructed. This can include a copy of the property deed, tax statement, or any other official document proving ownership. This step is crucial to ensure you have the right to make changes to the property.
Create Site Plans of the Existing Space and Proposed ADU Project: Develop site plans that illustrate the current layout of your property and the proposed location and dimensions of the ADU. These plans should include detailed drawings showing property lines, existing structures, the ADU’s footprint, and any relevant landscape features. Accurate site plans help the review board understand how the new unit will fit into the existing environment.
Prepare Detailed ADU Construction Plans: Alongside site plans, you’ll need to provide comprehensive construction plans for the ADU. These should include architectural drawings, floor plans, elevations, and structural details. Ensure the plans adhere to local building codes and zoning requirements. Hiring a professional architect or designer can be beneficial to ensure your plans are detailed and compliant with all regulations.
Submit a Tree Permit if Removing Any Protected Trees: If your ADU construction project involves the removal of any protected trees, you must apply for a tree permit. This typically requires a separate application and may include a tree survey, arborist report, and a plan for tree protection or replacement. Be aware of your local regulations regarding tree removal to avoid fines or delays in your project.
Submit the Application and Pay Fees
After preparing your application package, submit it to your local planning or building department. You will also need to pay the required permit fees at this stage.
Obtain Zoning and Building Permit Approvals
Consider submitting an optional zoning review application first for pre-approval. The building permit application will be reviewed for compliance with zoning, building code, and other requirements. Make any required corrections to the plans based on review comments. Once all conditions are met, obtain final approval of the building permit.
Start Construction and Schedule Inspections
Once the permit is issued, install required erosion control and tree protection measures. Schedule inspections as the ADU construction progresses and pass all required inspections to receive final approval. The entire ADU permitting process typically takes 6-8 weeks from complete application submission to permit issuance, depending on the local jurisdiction. Be sure to thoroughly research your local ADU regulations and requirements before starting the process.
Understanding ADU Regulations
Local zoning laws and building codes govern ADU construction. Key requirements may include size limits, setback rules, and restrictions on the number of ADUs per property. Researching and understanding these specific regulations is crucial before starting the application process.
Navigating the Permit Review Process
After submitting your application, the review process typically involves:
- A timeline for the review process.
- Potential requests for additional information or revisions.
- The role of public hearings or community input.
Effective communication with reviewing authorities and addressing any concerns or issues that arise can help navigate this process smoothly.
Collecting the ADU Permit
Once the permit is approved, understand any conditions or requirements attached to it. Obtain any necessary inspections or approvals before starting construction. Ensure the permit remains valid and up-to-date throughout the construction phase.
How Big of An ADU Can You Build
The size of your ADU will depend on local regulations and property specifics. For more detailed information, refer to our blog post titled How Big of An ADU Can You Build?
