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What are the requirements to build ADU in Bell?
Building an ADU in Bell gives you the opportunity to expand your living space and enhance your property, enabling you to host family members, generate passive income, or increase the resale value. To ensure the success of your ADU project, it's essential to understand local regulations and evaluate the financial implications of constructing in Bell. This guide provides comprehensive details on Bell’s ADU regulations and important financial considerations, helping you plan and execute your project efficiently.
ADU regulations for properties with a single-family home
How many ADUs can you build in Bell?
In Bell, a maximum of one ADU is allowed on any lot that has an existing or proposed single-family residence, whether it is an attached or a detached ADU from the primary building.
How large can an attached ADU be in Bell?
An attached ADU in Bell can have a size up to 50 percent of the floor area of the existing or proposed primary dwelling structure, or a maximum of 1,200 square feet, whichever is less.
How large can a detached ADU be in Bell?
A detached ADU in Bell follows the same guidelines as an attached one, with a maximum size of 50 percent of the floor area of the existing or proposed primary dwelling structure, or up to 1,200 square feet, whichever is less.
Can I build a 2-story ADU in Bell?
No, in Bell, you can only build a single-story ADU.
Is there a minimum size for an ADU?
There is no minimum size requirement for an ADU in Bell.
Can I convert the existing space to an ADU?
Yes, you can convert existing spaces like garages or accessory structures into ADUs. If you expand the structure, the city allows up to 150 square feet beyond its current size, but only to provide space for entry and exit.
What is the maximum height for an ADU?
An ADU on a property with a single-family house in Bell can reach a maximum height of 16 feet. However, in the R-1 zoning district, ADUs cannot be constructed on top of detached garages or other detached structures.
ADU regulations for properties with a multi-family building
How many ADUs does Bell allow for multifamily properties?
Bell allows multifamily properties to have ADUs equal to 25% of the total units, with at least one ADU required in each multifamily dwelling structure. Additionally, up to two detached ADUs are allowed.
How large can an attached ADU for a multifamily building be in Bell?
An attached ADU for a multifamily building in Bell can be a maximum of 50 percent of the floor area of the existing or proposed primary dwelling structure, or up to 1,200 square feet, whichever is less
How large can a detached ADU for a multifamily building be in Bell?
For a multifamily building in Bell, a detached ADU can be a maximum of 50 percent of the floor area of the existing or proposed primary dwelling structure, or up to 1,200 square feet, whichever is less, following the same guidelines as an attached ADU.
Can I stack detached ADUs on top of each other?
No, detached ADUs cannot be stacked on top of each other in Bell. While you may add an ADU above an existing structure like a garage in specific zones (R-2, R-3, C-3R), stacking one ADU on another is not allowed.
Can I attach two ADUs to each other?
No, attaching two ADUs to each other is not allowed in Bell, even though you can have up to two detached ADUs on a lot with a multifamily building. ADUs should be attached to or located within the primary dwelling’s living area.
Can I convert the existing space to an ADU?
Yes, you can convert existing space into an ADU on a multifamily property. If expanded, the addition can be up to 150 square feet beyond the original dimensions and should be for entry or exit purposes.
What is the maximum height for an ADU on a property with a multi-family building
The maximum height for an ADU on a property with a multifamily building in Bell is 16 feet.
What ADU types are allowed to build in Bell?
In Bell, various types of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) are permitted:
- Detached ADUs, which are stand-alone structures separate from the main house.
- Attached ADUs, constructed as additions that are physically connected to the primary residence.
- Converted ADUs, where existing non-livable spaces such as garages, storage rooms, or sheds are converted into functional living units with a kitchen or kitchenette and a bathroom.
Converting an existing structure can provide the benefit of avoiding setback and height restrictions, with the possibility of expanding the space to create a larger ADU. However, older structures may present unexpected issues during renovation, potentially increasing the overall costs.
ADU setbacks from the property lines and other buildings
What are the required setbacks for an ADU in Bell?
For an ADU in Bell, the side and rear setbacks are 4 feet, and the front setback is 25 feet. The city has not provided rules for corners or through lots.
What is the minimum distance the ADU must have from the existing structures?
A detached ADU needs to be at least 10 feet from existing structures in Bell.
Are setbacks required when converting existing structures into ADU?
No setbacks are required when converting an existing living space, garage, or accessory structure into an ADU.
Can I build an ADU in the front yard of my house in Bell?
Yes, but only if the property lacks sufficient space to construct a minimum 800-square-foot ADU. Compliance with zoning setback requirements is necessary.
Design requirements for ADU
How many bedrooms can an ADU have?
Bell doesn’t set a limit on ADU bedrooms, but ADUs in Los Angeles County usually have at least one bedroom unless they are studio units.
Does an ADU need to have a kitchen?
Yes, an ADU in Bell requires a full kitchen with cooking facilities, unlike JADUs, which usually have an efficiency kitchen.
Does an ADU require independent utility meters?
Yes, an ADU in Bell can have independent utility meters for gas, electricity, and water. It can also have a sewer connection.
What is the minimum ceiling height?
In Bell, as per the California Building Code, living spaces, including ADUs, should have 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 Bell?
Each ADU in Bell needs one on-site parking space. Exceptions apply if it's near public transit, in a historic district, fully inside the main residence or another structure, when on-street parking permits aren't offered, or if a car share vehicle is nearby.
Where can a parking space be located?
Parking spaces in Bell can be placed in setback areas or through tandem parking unless certain site conditions make it difficult. If a garage or covered parking is removed or converted to an ADU, no replacement parking is needed.
How to get permits for your ADU
How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Bell?
The permitting process typically takes around 3.5 to 4 months. After finalizing your permit drawings, you or your architect should submit them for a Plan Check. It's recommended to schedule a pre-plan check meeting with the planner to review your application before submission.
Once submitted and fees are paid, the city has 60 calendar days to determine if your application is complete. If no decision is made within this timeframe, your permit is automatically approved. If the city planner requests corrections, your designer will need to address them and resubmit the application. The application should include enough details to demonstrate compliance with the relevant ADU requirements. Missing information alone cannot be grounds for denial. Plan checks for ADU projects in Bell are estimated to cost around $2,160.
Does Bell require in-person submission of plans for an ADU?
No, Bell does not require in-person submission of plans for an ADU. Instead, it offers an Electronic Plan Check Submittal Process. After the permit counter has processed your plan check application, you'll have the opportunity to upload your plans and supporting documents via the Building Division Plan Submittal Portal.
Does Bell require coastal development permits?
No, Bell does not require coastal development permits.
When do you need a licensed professional to design an ADU in Bell?
In Bell, a licensed professional should design an ADU if it uses non-standard construction methods or is over two stories.
Cost, financing and market value of ADUs
How much does it cost to build an ADU in Bell?
Building an ADU in Bell typically costs about $380 per square foot. This estimate should include expenses such as permits, architectural design, and engineering services. For instance, the total cost for a 900-square-foot ADU usually amounts to around $390,000, accounting for both direct and incidental expenses.
Is it profitable to build an ADU in Bell?
To determine the financial feasibility of constructing an ADU in Bell, it is crucial to compare building costs with local real estate market values. For example, a 900-square-foot ADU could have a market value of roughly $600,000. Given construction costs of around $390,000, this indicates a potential return on investment of 56%.
Additionally, profitability can be evaluated by considering possible rental income or the benefits of having family members live on the same property.
Can you sell an ADU in Bell?
You can sell an ADU in Bell if certain conditions are met. The city needs a local ordinance that allows ADU sales and explains the rules for these transactions. If a qualified nonprofit built the ADU, you can sell it separately. You can also create a tenancy in a common agreement to share the property according to specific guidelines. The city may allow the sale of the ADU and the main home as separate condominiums, as long as you follow all relevant regulations.
Are ADUs rent-controlled in Bell?
In Bell, ADUs are not covered by rent control laws. They're considered new constructions, which means they're not bound by regulations like AB 1482, allowing landlords to adjust rents annually. But this exemption only applies to buildings that are at least 15 years old.
How do I get money to build an ADU in Bell?
One option available to homeowners in Bell to fund their ADU construction is to apply for the CalHFA's ADU grant program, which is administered by the California Community Economic Development Association (CCEDA). This program provides grants of $40,000 to qualifying homeowners to cover pre-construction expenses associated with ADU construction. Additionally, 54% of these grants are designated for low-income households, aiming to enhance affordability.
Find out how much value an ADU could add to your property.
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