Constructing an ADU in Anaheim - Highlights of ADU Express

BCG Technology News

Anaheim is making it easier for homeowners to build accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and junior ADUs (JADUs) as part of California's push to address the housing shortage. There are some interesting aspects of the regulations that are worth highlighting.

If you own a single-family home, you can build both an ADU and a JADU on your property. The great thing about JADUs is that they're built into your existing home (e.g. by converting a master bedroom), while ADUs can be either attached or detached. There is also an interesting option for owners of apartment buildings: you can convert up to 25% of the existing units into ADUs and add two detached ADUs to the property.
As for size, there's a lot of flexibility. ADUs can range from a cozy 150 square feet to 1,200 square feet. If you want to build a studio or one-bedroom ADU, you can build up to 850 square feet, while two or more bedrooms can be up to 1,000 square feet. JADUs are more limited, with a maximum of 500 square feet.
Anaheim's ADU Express program, which offers pre-approved ADU designs that can expedite the approval process, saves both time and money. It only works for freestanding ADUs, and some plans may still need to be reviewed by a design professional. The city must process all ADU applications within 60 days, which helps keep projects moving forward.
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The parking requirements are pretty reasonable. No parking is required for studio ADUs, and only one parking space is required for units with bedrooms. Even better, in some cases the city will waive parking requirements altogether - if you're near public transit, in a historic neighborhood, or if the ADU is being converted from an existing structure.
Starting in 2025, ADU owners in Anaheim must live on the property (either in the main house or in the ADU) unless state law changes. You can't sell ADUs separately from the main house, but you can rent them out. For JADUs, there is already an owner-occupancy requirement in place - either the JADU or the main house must be owner-occupied.
When it comes to utilities, Anaheim is very flexible and allows separate meters for ADUs and JADUs. However, new construction may require a direct utility connection. Both types of dwelling units require their own entrance, but JADUs can share bathrooms with the main house, while ADUs require their own bathroom.
In terms of design, Anaheim wants ADUs to blend into the neighborhood. Detached ADUs can be up to 18 feet tall (plus 2 feet for the roof pitch), and they must match the architectural style of the main house. They must be at least 10 feet from the main house and no closer to the front property line than the front wall of the main house (unless converting an existing garage).
Cost-conscious homeowners will appreciate that the city doesn't charge fees for ADUs under 750 square feet. Fees for larger units are based on square footage and number of fixtures, plus school fees are required for all new units.
One particularly helpful aspect for those looking to convert existing structures (such as garages) is that these conversions are exempt from many typical requirements such as setback and height limits. This makes converting garages a particularly attractive option. All legally existing ADUs can continue to operate, but illegal units must be brought up to current code.
Looking to get your ADU project in Anaheim started?
Visit: https://aduconstructionanaheim.com/

Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for consulting official sources or a government website to determine relevance and accuracy.