abodu

What are the requirements to build ADU in Alhambra?

Building an ADU in Alhambra offers a valuable opportunity to expand your living space and increase property value and potential resale value. To ensure the success of your ADU project, it is important to understand the city's regulations and assess the financial feasibility of constructing an ADU in Alhambra. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Alhambra's ADU regulations and key financial considerations, assisting you in planning and executing your project efficiently.

ADU regulations for properties with a single-family home

How many ADUs can you build in Alhambra?

In Alhambra, you can build one ADU on a single-family lot with an existing or proposed single-family home, whether it is attached to or detached from the primary building.

How large can an attached ADU be in Alhambra?

The maximum size of an attached ADU is 800 square feet or 50% of the primary dwelling unit's floor space, whichever is larger.

How large can a detached ADU be in Alhambra?

The maximum floor area allowed for a detached ADU is 1,200 square feet.

Can you build a 2-story ADU in Alhambra?

Yes, you can construct a 2-story ADU in Alhambra, as the maximum allowed is strictly two stories.

Is there a minimum size for an ADU?

Yes. An ADU in Alhambra should meet a minimum size requirement of 400 square feet.

Can you convert the existing space to an ADU?

Yes, you can convert existing space into an ADU in Alhambra. This applies to areas within a proposed or current single-family home or an existing accessory structure. You may also expand the space by up to 150 square feet to provide access and entry.

What is the maximum height for an ADU?

For both attached and detached ADUs on a property with a single-family house, the maximum height limit is 25 feet.

ADU regulations for properties with a multi-family building

How many ADUs does Alhambra allow for multifamily properties?

Multifamily properties can have up to two detached new ADUs on existing or proposed multi-family dwellings. Additionally, they can convert non-livable space within existing multi-unit dwellings into attached ADUs, with a maximum of 25% of the existing units.

How large can an attached ADU for a multifamily building be in Alhambra?

The maximum size for an attached ADU in a multifamily building is not specified in the Alhambra regulations.

How large can a detached ADU for a multifamily building be in Alhambra?

For a detached ADU in a multifamily building in Alhambra, the maximum allowed size is 800 square feet.

Can I stack detached ADUs on top of each other?

No. Stacking detached ADUs on top of each other is not addressed in the current city regulations.

Can I attach two ADUs to each other?

Yes. In Alhambra, while ADUs should be separated from the multifamily dwelling, they are allowed to be attached to each other.

Can I convert the existing non-living spaces like garage or storage into ADUs?

Yes, it is allowed to convert non-livable space within existing multi-unit dwellings into ADUs.

What is the maximum height for an ADU on a property with a multi-family building

On properties with multifamily buildings, detached ADUs typically have a maximum height limit of 16 feet.

However, exceptions may apply: if located within a half-mile of a major transit stop or high-quality transit corridor, the limit increases to 18 feet, with an additional 2 feet allowed for roof pitch alignment. Likewise, on lots with existing or proposed multi-unit dwellings, the height limit is also 18 feet.

What ADU types are allowed to build in Alhambra?

There are a few types of ADUs:

Detached: A standalone building separate from the main house.
Attached: A new structure connected to the main house.
Converted: Converting an existing non-livable space into a functional living unit with a kitchen or kitchenette and a bathroom.

An ADU can be a newly built structure or a conversion of an existing space, like a storage area, garage, or old shed, into a livable unit. One advantage of converting an existing structure is that setbacks and height restrictions won’t limit your remodel. You can also expand the structure to create a larger ADU. However, renovating older spaces may uncover unexpected issues, potentially increasing costs.

ADU setbacks from the property lines and other buildings

What are the required setbacks for an ADU in Alhambra?

The setbacks required for an ADU include at least a 4-foot side and rear yard setback for both new attached and detached ADUs. However, specific regulations for corner or through lots have not been specified by the city.

What is the minimum distance the ADU must have from the existing structures?

The minimum distance an ADU should maintain from existing structures is 6 feet.

Are setbacks required when converting existing structures into ADU?

No, setbacks are not required for converting an existing garage into an ADU. However, if an ADU is proposed to be attached to a garage, setbacks of the underlying zone would apply.

Can I build an ADU in the front yard of my house in Alhambra?

Yes, you can build an ADU in the front yard of your house in Alhambra if it complies with front yard setbacks, or exceptions may apply if state law requirements are met.

Design requirements for ADU

How many bedrooms can an ADU have?

ADUs are typically allowed to have at least 1 bedroom.

Does an ADU need to have a kitchen?

Yes, an ADU in Alhambra typically needs to include a full kitchen, unlike Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs), which often have efficiency kitchens.

Does an ADU require independent utility meters?

An Alhambra ADU may use the meters from the main dwelling unit or have its meters for gas, electric, and water service, depending on the situation. If there is sufficient capacity and slope, it might connect to the main dwelling unit's sewer line for sewer service. It can use a separate sewer line if not.

What is the minimum ceiling height?

The minimum ceiling height for habitable spaces in ADUs, according to the California Building Code, is typically 7 feet.

Find out the maximum ADU size for your property here.

The parking requirements for ADU

What is the parking requirement for an ADU in Alhambra?

In Alhambra, all new ADUs should have one additional parking space, covered or uncovered, unless they are within a half-mile radius of a public transit station, including bus stops. However, ADUs converted from accessory structures or parts of existing dwellings do not require any additional parking.

Where can I have a parking space on my property?

Parking spaces required for ADUs in Alhambra can be located as tandem parking on existing driveways. Off-street parking is allowed in setback areas determined by the city or through tandem parking unless site-specific or regional topographical or fire and life safety conditions make this infeasible.

Additionally, if demolishing a garage, carport, or covered parking alongside ADU construction, the off-street parking spaces for the primary unit are not required to be replaced.

How to get permits for your ADU

How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Alhambra?

The permitting process typically takes 3.5 to 4 months. Once your permit drawings are ready, either you or your architect should submit them for a Plan Check. It's recommended to arrange a pre-plan check meeting with a planner to review your application before submission.

After submission and payment of the required fees, the city has 60 calendar days to determine if your application is complete. If no response is provided within this timeframe, the permit is automatically approved. If corrections are requested, your designer should address them and resubmit the application. The application should demonstrate compliance with the specified ADU requirements, and missing information alone cannot justify a denial. The estimated cost for a Plan Check of an ADU project in Alhambra is $1,800.

Does Alhambra require in-person submission of plans for an ADU?

No. Alhambra does not require in-person submission of plans for an ADU. All planning applications are now submitted electronically through the Permit Portal. However, it's advisable to consult with a Planner before submission.

In-person meetings can be scheduled if desired, and appointments can be made via the City of Alhambra Appointment Calendar. Meetings can take place at the Community Development Department counter at City Hall, or via Zoom or phone call upon request.

Does Alhambra require coastal development permits?

No, Alhambra does not require coastal development permits.

When do you need a licensed professional to design an ADU in Alhambra?

A licensed professional is required in Alhambra to design an ADU if the project incorporates non-standard construction methods.

Cost, financing and market value of ADUs

How much does it cost to build an ADU in Alhambra?

In Alhambra, constructing an ADU costs approximately $380 per square foot. Alongside construction expenses, you should also plan for permits, architect fees, and engineering fees. For example, the total cost for a 900-square-foot ADU is around $390,000, encompassing both soft and hard costs.

Is it profitable to build an ADU in Alhambra?

The economic feasibility of constructing an ADU in Alhambra hinges on construction costs and the local real estate market. A 900-square-foot ADU in this area is valued at about $670,000. With a total construction cost of around $390,000, this results in a return on investment of approximately 73%.

Profitability can also be evaluated by considering potential rental income or the benefits of having family members reside on the same property.

Can you sell an ADU in Alhambra?

You can sell an ADU in Alhambra under specific conditions. The city should have a local ordinance that allows ADU sales and sets guidelines for the process. ADUs built by qualified nonprofit corporations can also be sold on their own. Another option is using a tenancy in a common agreement to divide the property under certain legal rules. Additionally, the city might allow ADUs and the primary home to be sold separately as condominiums if regulations are followed.

Are ADUs rent-controlled in Alhambra?

No. Rent control regulations do not apply to ADUs in Alhambra. Typically, rent control is enforced on older properties, typically those aged 15 years or more. Since ADUs are newly constructed, they are exempt from such regulations. Consequently, legislation like AB 1482, which pertains to rent control, does not impact ADUs in Alhambra.

How do I get money to build an ADU in Alhambra?

To secure funding for constructing an ADU in Alhambra, homeowners can explore various avenues, such as the CalHFA ADU Grant Program. This program provides grants of up to $40,000, based on the homeowner's income, with a maximum eligible income of $158,000 for owner-occupied properties. The grant can be utilized to cover initial expenses like site preparation, ADU design, permits, and associated costs. Additionally, homeowners retain the autonomy to select tenants for the ADU.