Cali ADU Design+Build
What are the requirements to build ADU in Azusa?
Building an ADU in Azusa provides an opportunity to expand your home and generate rental income. To ensure the success of your ADU project, it is important to understand local regulations and evaluate the financial aspects of building in Azusa. This guide outlines Azusa's ADU regulations and essential financial considerations, helping you plan and execute your project effectively.
ADU regulations for properties with a single-family home
How many ADUs can you build in Azusa?
In Azusa, you can build only one detached ADU per lot that has an existing or proposed single-family home.
How large can an attached ADU be in Azusa?
Attached ADUs in Azusa can be up to 50 percent of the primary dwelling's floor area, with a maximum size of 850 square feet for a studio or one-bedroom unit and 1,000 square feet for a two-bedroom unit. A maximum of two bedrooms is allowed.
How large can a detached ADU be in Azusa?
For detached ADUs in Azusa, the maximum size is 850 square feet for a studio or one-bedroom unit and 1,000 square feet for a two-bedroom unit. Again, only two bedrooms are allowed.
Can you build a 2-story ADU in Azusa?
Yes, you can build a two-story ADU in Azusa, but it is only limited to two stories in height.
Is there a minimum size for an ADU?
No, there is no minimum size requirement for an ADU in Azusa. However, to ensure livable spaces, the Building Code requires each room type to meet a minimum size.
Can I convert the existing space to an ADU?
Yes, you can convert existing space into an ADU in Azusa in a single-family lot. Additionally, you can expand up to 150 additional square feet if the expansion is solely for accommodating ingress and egress.
The maximum height for an ADU on a property with a single-family house
For detached ADUs on single-family properties, the maximum height is usually 16 feet. If the property is within half a mile of a major transit stop or high-quality transit corridor, the height can increase to 18 feet. Additionally, it can go up to 20 feet to match the roof pitch of the primary dwelling.
For attached ADUs, the height limit is 25 feet or the height limit of the zone where the primary dwelling is located, whichever is lower. These ADUs cannot be higher than two stories.
ADU regulations for properties with a multi-family building
How many ADUs does Azusa allow for multifamily properties?
In Azusa, multifamily properties can have at least one converted ADU within an existing building, or up to 25 percent of the existing multifamily units. Additionally, a maximum of two detached ADUs is allowed.
How large can an attached ADU for a multifamily building be in Azusa?
Attached ADUs for multifamily buildings in Azusa are limited to 50 percent of the primary dwelling's floor area, with a maximum of 850 square feet for a studio or one-bedroom unit and 1,000 square feet for a two-bedroom unit. A maximum of two bedrooms is allowed.
How large can a detached ADU for a multifamily building be in Azusa?
The maximum size for a detached ADU in Azusa is the same: 850 square feet for a studio or one-bedroom unit and 1,000 square feet for a two-bedroom unit, with a maximum of two bedrooms allowed.
Can I stack detached ADUs on top of each other?
As of now, Azusa hasn’t provided any rules about stacking detached ADUs on top of each other.
Can I attach two ADUs to each other?
In Azusa, attaching two ADUs is not allowed. ADUs should connect only to the primary building. However, you can have up to two separate ADUs on a property with an existing multifamily dwelling.
Can I convert the existing space to an ADU?
Yes, conversion of existing space into an ADU within a multifamily property is allowed, provided that the space is not currently used as livable space.
What is the maximum height for an ADU on a property with a multi-family building
For detached ADUs in multifamily properties, the maximum height is generally 16 feet but can rise to 18 feet if near a major transit stop or corridor. If the multifamily building has multiple stories, the detached ADU cannot surpass 18 feet.
Attached ADUs in multifamily buildings should not go beyond 25 feet or the height limit of the primary dwelling's zone, whichever is lower. These ADUs cannot be higher than two stories.
What ADU types are allowed to build in Azusa?
In Azusa, the following types of ADUs are permitted:
- A detached ADU, which is a separate structure 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, like a garage, storage area, or shed, into a living unit with a kitchen or kitchenette and a bathroom.
Converting an existing structure offers the benefit of avoiding setback and height restrictions, and the structure can be expanded to accommodate a larger ADU. However, remodeling older buildings may sometimes uncover unexpected issues, potentially increasing costs.
ADU setbacks from the property lines and other buildings
What are the required setbacks for an ADU in Azusa?
In Azusa, each ADU is required to have a 40-foot front setback and 4-foot side and rear setbacks. However, the city has not provided specific regulations for corners or through lots.
What is the minimum distance the ADU must have from the existing structures?
Azusa doesn’t specify a minimum distance for ADUs from existing structures. Typically, many cities recommend that ADUs be at least 6 feet away from existing buildings.
Are setbacks required if converting existing structures into ADU?
In Azusa, there are no setback requirements for converting existing structures into ADUs. Generally, if the ADU is created within the primary residence or an accessory structure, no setbacks are necessary.
Can I build an ADU in the front yard of my house in Azusa?
You may be able to build an ADU in the front yard of your house in Azusa, provided it is set back at least 40 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?
An ADU in Azusa is limited to a maximum of two bedrooms, which is less than what some other cities may allow.
Does an ADU need to have a kitchen?
Yes, usually, an ADU in Azusa needs a full kitchen, whereas JADUs may opt for an efficiency kitchen instead.
Does an ADU require independent utility meters?
Yes, an independent utility meter is required for an ADU if it is constructed alongside a new single-family home. This includes providing a separate utility connection directly between the ADU and the utility provider, and payment of the standard connection fee and capacity charge for a new dwelling.
What is the minimum ceiling height?
In Azusa, in compliance with the California Building Code, habitable spaces, including ADUs, should maintain a minimum ceiling height 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 Azusa?
In Azusa, each ADU should have one off-street parking space. However, exceptions apply: parking isn't needed if the ADU is within half a mile of public transit, is located in an architecturally or historically significant district, or if it's part of the primary residence or an accessory structure. Additionally, if the ADU occupant doesn't receive on-street parking permits or if there's a car share vehicle stop within one block, parking isn't required.
Where can I have a parking space on my property?
Parking can be placed in setback areas or as tandem parking. Additionally, if a garage, carport, or covered parking structure is demolished or converted into an ADU during construction, there's no need to replace those parking spaces.
How to get permits for your ADU
How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Azusa?
The approval process for an ADU permit typically spans 3.5 to 4 months. After preparing the permit drawing set, either you or your architect should submit it for a Plan Check. It's advisable to arrange a pre-plan check meeting with the planner to go over your application beforehand.
Once the application is submitted and all fees are paid, the city has 60 calendar days to determine if it is complete. If no response is provided within this period, the permit is automatically approved. Should corrections be requested, your designer should address them and resubmit the application. The submitted documents should demonstrate compliance with the specified ADU regulations, and incomplete information alone cannot be grounds for denial. In Agoura Hills, the estimated cost for an ADU plan check is $2,100.
Does Azusa require in-person submission of plans for an ADU?
Azusa allows for both online and in-person submission of plans for an ADU. You can get a building permit or submit plans for review online. Additionally, if preferred, you can also do so in person, but only by appointment.
Does Azusa require coastal development permits?
Azusa does not require permits for coastal development in any of its areas.
When do you need a licensed professional to design an ADU in Azusa?
You need a licensed architect, civil engineer, or structural engineer in the State of California to sign and stamp all plan sheets and calculations for the ADU.
Cost, financing and market value of ADUs
How much does it cost to build an ADU in Azusa?
Building an ADU in Azusa typically involves budgeting around $380 per square foot for construction. This estimate should also include costs for permits, architectural design, and engineering services. For instance, the total cost for a 900-square-foot ADU generally amounts to approximately $390,000, covering both soft and hard expenses.
Is it profitable to build an ADU in Azusa?
Assessing the financial potential of constructing an ADU in Azusa requires comparing construction costs with local real estate market conditions. For example, a 900-square-foot ADU in Azusa could potentially have a market value of about $450,000. With construction costs estimated at approximately $390,000, this indicates a potential return on investment of 15%.
Furthermore, profitability can also be assessed by considering potential rental income or the advantages of accommodating family members on the same property.
Can you sell an ADU in Azusa?
Yes, selling an ADU in Azusa is possible if specific conditions are fulfilled. The city should have a local ordinance that permits ADU sales and outlines the rules governing these transactions. If a qualified nonprofit corporation built the ADU, it can be sold separately. Another option is to use a tenancy in a common agreement to divide the property according to specific legal requirements. Furthermore, the city may allow the sale of the ADU and the main residence as separate condominiums, provided the necessary regulations are adhered to.
Are ADUs rent-controlled in Azusa?
ADUs in Azusa are not subject to rent control regulations. Despite older buildings potentially falling under rent control if they meet specific criteria, such as being at least 15 years old, ADUs are exempt from such regulations, like AB 1482, as they are newly constructed units.
How do I get money to build an ADU in Azusa?
To obtain financing to construct an ADU in Azusa, residents have various avenues to consider. While the CalHFA ADU grant, covering soft costs like permitting, has been fully allocated as of May 2023, residents can explore financing programs provided by individual jurisdictions, including Azusa. These programs may include options for low-interest loans or fee exemptions. Furthermore, residents can assess the current ADU market, including rental rates and potential income, to make informed decisions.
Find out how much value an ADU could add to your property.
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