Cali ADU Design+Build

What are the requirements to build ADU in Avalon?

Constructing an ADU in Avalon allows you to expand your living space while increasing your property value and potential resale value. For a successful project, it is crucial to understand Avalon's local regulations and carefully assess the financial aspects of construction. This guide offers comprehensive insights into Avalon's ADU regulations and key financial considerations, helping you plan and execute your project effectively.

ADU regulations for properties with a single-family home

How many ADUs can I build on a property in Avalon?

In Avalon, one ADU can be built on a lot with either a proposed or existing single-family dwelling, regardless of whether it is attached or detached from the primary building.

How large can an attached ADU be in Avalon?

In Avalon, attached ADUs can be up to 50% of the primary dwelling's floor area. A studio or one-bedroom unit can reach a maximum of 850 square feet, while units with two or more bedrooms can be as large as 1,000 square feet.

How large can a detached ADU be in Avalon?

In Avalon, detached ADUs can range up to 850 square feet for a studio or one-bedroom unit, and up to 1,000 square feet for units with two or more bedrooms.

Can I build a 2-story ADU in Avalon?

Yes, in Avalon, you can build a 2-story ADU.

Is there a minimum size for an ADU?

No, there is no minimum size requirement for ADUs in Avalon. However, to ensure livable spaces, a minimum size for each room type is required by the Building Code.

Can I convert the existing space to an ADU?

Yes, converting existing space into an ADU is allowed in Avalon. This includes an expansion of up to 150 square feet for a legally existing accessory structure to create separate access points.

The maximum height for an ADU on a property with a single-family house

On a property with a single-family house in Avalon, the maximum height for a detached ADU is 18 feet, with an additional 2 feet allowed if needed to match the roof pitch of the primary dwelling. Attached ADUs cannot surpass 25 feet in height, or the limit imposed by the primary dwelling's zoning.

ADU regulations for properties with a multi-family building

How many ADUs does Avalon allow for multifamily properties?

Avalon allows converting at least one ADU within an existing multifamily building or up to 25% of the total units. Moreover, a maximum of two detached ADUs are allowed.

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

In Avalon, attached ADUs in multifamily buildings are limited to 50% of the primary dwelling's floor area. This allows for a maximum size of 850 square feet for a studio or one-bedroom unit and 1,000 square feet for a unit with two or more bedrooms.

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

In Avalon, detached ADUs in multifamily buildings can be up to 850 square feet for a studio or one-bedroom unit, and up to 1,000 square feet for units with two or more bedrooms.

Can I stack detached ADUs on top of each other?

As of now, Avalon hasn’t addressed the possibility of stacking detached ADUs.

Can I attach two ADUs to each other?

Attaching two ADUs to each other is not allowed in Avalon. ADUs can only be attached to the primary building.

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

Yes, existing space can be converted into an ADU in a multifamily building, as long as it's not currently used as livable space.

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

On a property with a multifamily building in Avalon, detached ADUs can reach up to 18 feet in height if the lot is within half a mile of a major transit stop or high-quality transit corridor. An additional 2 feet may be allowed to align with the roof pitch of the primary dwelling.

However, if the multifamily building is more than one story above grade, the detached ADU cannot also surpass 18 feet in height. Meanwhile, attached ADUs should follow the maximum height of 25 feet or the height limitation imposed by the underlying zoning for the primary dwelling.

What ADU types are allowed to build in Avalon?

In Avalon, several types of ADUs are allowed:

A detached ADU, which is a standalone building separate from the main house.
An attached ADU, which is a new addition connected to the main house.
A converted ADU, converts an existing non-living space, such as a garage, storage area, or shed, into a living unit with a kitchen or kitchenette and a bathroom.

Converting an existing structure has the advantage of bypassing setback and height restrictions, and you can also expand the structure to create a larger ADU. However, remodeling older structures may sometimes reveal unforeseen challenges, which can increase costs.

ADU setbacks from the property lines and other buildings

What are the required setbacks for an ADU in Avalon?

Avalon requires a three-foot setback in the front yard and three-foot setbacks on the sides and rear for ADUs. However, regulations for corner or through lots remain unspecified by the city.

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

There isn't a specified minimum distance requirement for ADUs from existing structures in Avalon. However, it's common in many areas for ADUs to be placed at least 6 feet away from existing buildings.

Are setbacks required if converting existing structures into ADU?

Setbacks are not required if converting existing structures into ADUs in Avalon.

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

You may be able to build an ADU in the front yard of your house in Avalon, provided it is set back at least 3 feet from the front property line. If this setback requirement leaves sufficient space within your front yard, construction might be allowed.

Design requirements for ADU

How many bedrooms can an ADU have?

In Avalon, an ADU can have at least one bedroom unless it’s designed as a studio unit.

Does an ADU need to have a kitchen?

Yes, an ADU in Avalon generally requires a full kitchen for cooking, while JADUs can have smaller, efficiency kitchens.

Does an ADU require independent utility meters?

When constructing an ADU alongside a new single-family home in Avalon, a separate utility connection directly between the ADU and the utility is required.

What is the minimum ceiling height?

In Avalon, the minimum ceiling height for habitable spaces, including ADUs, should comply with the California Building Code's standard of 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 Avalon?

In Avalon, each ADU needs one off-street parking space. However, parking isn't necessary if the ADU is close to public transit, located in a historic district, part of the main residence or accessory structure, or if the ADU occupant doesn't get on-street parking permits. Additionally, if there's a car share vehicle stop within one block, parking is not required.

Where can a parking space be located?

Parking spaces for an ADU can be located in setback areas or arranged as tandem parking. Additionally, if a garage, carport, or covered parking structure is demolished to accommodate the construction of an ADU or converted into an ADU, replacement of those off-street parking spaces is not required.

How to get permits for your ADU

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

The permitting process typically takes 3.5 to 4 months. Once your permit drawings are complete, you or your architect should submit them for Plan Check. It is advisable to arrange a pre-plan check meeting with a planner to review your application beforehand.

After submission and full payment of fees, the city is required to determine whether your application is complete within 60 calendar days. If no decision is made within this period, the permit is automatically approved. If corrections are requested, your designer should make the necessary changes and resubmit the application. The application should provide enough details to demonstrate compliance with the ADU requirements. Missing information alone does not warrant denial of the application. Plan checks for ADU projects in Agoura Hills cost an estimated $3,380. For projects involving the demolition of a garage to construct an ADU, the demolition permit is reviewed and approved simultaneously with the ADU permit.

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

Avalon does not require in-person submission of ADU plans; applicants have the option to submit them either in person or online.

Does Avalon require coastal development permits?

No, coastal development permits are not required in Avalon.

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

It's a good idea to hire a licensed professional, like an architect or engineer, for ADU design in Avalon, especially for unconventional construction methods.

Cost, financing and market value of ADUs

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

Building an ADU in Avalon typically costs around $380 per square foot, which includes expenses for permits, architectural design, and engineering services. For instance, constructing a 900-square-foot ADU would generally cost about $390,000, covering both soft and hard costs.

Is it profitable to build an ADU in Avalon?

To evaluate the financial viability of building an ADU in Avalon, it's crucial to compare construction costs with local real estate market values. For example, a 900-square-foot ADU could be valued at approximately $600,000. Given the construction cost of $390,000, this suggests a potential return on investment of around 50%.

Additionally, profitability considerations may include potential rental income or the benefits of housing family members on the same property.

Can you sell an ADU in Avalon?

Yes, you can sell an ADU in Avalon if certain conditions are met. The city needs to have a local ordinance that allows for the sale of ADUs and defines the rules for these transactions. If a qualified nonprofit corporation constructed the ADU, it can be sold independently. Another possibility is to use a tenancy in a common agreement to divide the property based on specific legal standards. Additionally, the city may permit the sale of the ADU and the primary residence as separate condominiums, as long as the necessary regulations are followed.

Are ADUs rent-controlled in Avalon?

No, rent control laws do not apply to ADUs in Avalon. Landlords can increase rents annually according to AB 1482, which only affects properties that are 15 years or older.

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

To support ADU construction in Avalon, consider the CalHFA ADU Grant Program. This program provides grants of up to $40,000, covering costs such as site preparation, permits, and architectural plans, in line with California's affordable housing goals.

Find out how much value an ADU could add to your property.

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