EcoSmart Builders
What are the requirements to build ADU in Carson?
Building an ADU in Carson offers a great opportunity to expand your living space and create personalized areas like a home office or recreation room. To ensure the success of your ADU project, it is crucial to understand the city's regulations and assess the financial feasibility of constructing an ADU in Carson. This guide provides a detailed overview of Carson'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 Carson?
In Carson, it is allowed to build one ADU on a lot with proposed or existing single-family dwellings, regardless of whether it is attached or detached from the primary building.
How large can an attached ADU be in Carson?
An attached ADU can be up to 850 square feet for a studio or one-bedroom unit, and up to 1,000 square feet for a unit with more than one bedroom, or 50% of the floor area of the existing primary dwelling, whichever is less.
How large can a detached ADU be in Caron?
A detached ADU can be a maximum size of 1,200 square feet.
Can I build a 2-story ADU in Carson?
While the city doesn’t specifically mention allowing 2-story ADUs, it does permit building one above a detached garage.
Is there a minimum size for an ADU?
Yes. In Carson, the minimum size for an ADU is at least that of an efficiency unit, which has a minimum floor area of 150 square feet.
Can I convert the existing space to an ADU?
No, Carson City’s municipal code does not state the conversion of ADU within the single-family zone.
What is the maximum height for an ADU?
On a property with a single-family home, detached ADUs are limited to 1 story and can be a maximum of 16 feet tall. If the ADU is built above a detached garage, it can have 2 stories (with the garage being 1 story) and needs to follow the height rules of the zoning district.
ADU regulations for properties with a multi-family building
How many ADUs does Carson allow for multifamily properties?
In Carson, you can convert up to 25% of the total units in an existing multi-family property into ADUs, with at least one ADU conversion always allowed. Additionally, you can build up to 2 new detached ADUs on a lot that has an existing multi-family dwelling.
How large can an attached ADU for a multifamily building be in Carson?
An attached ADU for a multifamily building can have a maximum size of 850 square feet for a studio or one-bedroom unit, and up to 1,000 square feet for a unit with more than one bedroom, or 50% of the floor area of the existing primary dwelling, whichever is smaller.
How large can a detached ADU for a multifamily building be in Carson?
A detached ADU for a multifamily building can have a maximum size of 1,200 square feet.
Can I stack detached ADUs on top of each other?
No, stacking detached ADUs on top of each other is not allowed in Carson. The regulation allowing a second-story addition applies to ADUs constructed above a detached garage, not stacking one detached ADU on top of another.
Can I attach two ADUs to each other?
No, the attachment of two ADUs is also not allowed in Carson. Although the city allows up to two ADUs on a lot with an existing multifamily dwelling, rules do not allow their attachment.
Can I convert the existing space to an ADU?
Yes, existing space within a multi-unit dwelling can be converted into an ADU. However, the portion of the existing multi-unit dwelling being converted into an ADU should not be used as livable space. Additionally, amenities within common areas cannot be converted into ADUs.
What is the maximum height for an ADU on a property with a multi-family building
For multifamily buildings, the maximum height for an ADU is the same as for single-family homes. Detached ADUs can be 1 story and up to 16 feet tall. If built on top of a detached garage, they can reach 2 stories (with the garage as 1 story) and should follow the zoning height regulations.
What ADU types are allowed to build in Carson?
ADUs can be developed in various forms:
1. Detached ADU: A standalone building separate from the primary residence.
2. Attached ADU: An extension that is directly connected to the main house.
3. Converted ADU: Converting spaces like garages, sheds, or storage areas into a fully equipped living unit with a kitchen and bathroom.
You can opt to construct a new ADU or modify an existing structure. Converting areas such as garages or sheds typically sidesteps setback and height restrictions, and the structure can be enlarged to create more room. However, renovating older buildings may present unforeseen challenges that could increase expenses.
ADU setbacks from the property lines and other buildings
What are the required setbacks for an ADU in Carson?
Newly constructed ADUs should have a minimum setback of 4 feet from all side and rear property lines.
What is the minimum distance the ADU must have from the existing structures?
Carson does not specify a minimum distance requirement for ADUs from existing structures. However, in many cities, there is typically a minimum setback of 6 feet for ADUs from existing buildings.
Are setbacks required when converting existing structures into ADU?
No, setbacks are not required if converting existing structures into an ADU in Carson.
Can I build an ADU in the front yard of my house in Carson?
Building an ADU in the front yard of your Carson property is possible, but only if there isn’t sufficient space elsewhere on the lot to accommodate at least an 800-square-foot unit. Zoning setback rules should be followed.
Design requirements for ADU
How many bedrooms can an ADU have?
In Carson, an ADU is required to have at least one bedroom, contrasting with a studio unit, which doesn't necessarily include a separate bedroom.
Does an ADU need to have a kitchen?
Yes, in Carson, an ADU typically requires a full kitchen.
Does an ADU require independent utility meters?
It depends. They should connect to public utilities like water, electricity, and sewer services. The city doesn't require separate connections or impose fees for units within a primary dwelling, except when the ADU was built with a new single-family home.
What is the minimum ceiling height?
In Carson, the minimum ceiling height for habitable spaces in new residential constructions, including ADUs, is typically required by the California Building Code, which requires a minimum 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 Carson?
In Carson, the parking requirement for ADUs is one parking space per unit. However, certain situations can exempt this requirement. These include ADUs that are part of the main home or an accessory structure, those located within half a mile of public transit, and units in architecturally or historically significant districts. No extra parking is needed if on-street parking permits aren’t available for ADU occupants or if a car-share vehicle is within a block.
Where can I have a parking space on my property?
Parking spaces can be located in tandem or on an existing driveway if extra parking is required. However, parking isn’t allowed in rear setbacks next to an alley or in the front setback, unless the front driveway is at least 20 feet deep. If a garage, carport, or covered parking is demolished or converted into an ADU, there’s no need to replace those parking spaces, making it easier to build the ADU.
How to get permits for your ADU
How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Carson?
The permitting process usually takes 3.5 to 4 months. Once your permit drawings are ready, you or your architect can submit them for a Plan Check. It’s advisable to arrange a pre-plan check meeting with the planner to review your application beforehand.
After submission and payment of fees, the city has 60 calendar days to assess whether the application is complete. If no response is given within that period, the permit is automatically approved. If revisions are needed, your designer must address them and resubmit the application. The submission should provide sufficient details to show compliance with ADU regulations, as incomplete information alone cannot justify a denial. Plan check fees for ADU projects in Carson are around $2,230.
Does Carson require in-person submission of plans for an ADU?
Carson allows electronic submission of ADU plans, so you don't need to submit them in person. You can send new submissions as PDF attachments to [email protected].
Does Carson require coastal development permits?
No, Carson does not require coastal development permits.
When do you need a licensed professional to design an ADU in Carson?
A licensed professional is necessary for designing an ADU in Carson if the project uses unconventional construction methods.
Cost, financing and market value of ADUs
How much does it cost to build an ADU in Carson?
In Carson, constructing an ADU costs about $380 per square foot. Besides construction expenses, you should also budget for permits, architect fees, and engineering fees. For example, the total cost for a 900-square-foot ADU is around $390,000, including both soft and hard costs.
Is it profitable to build an ADU in Carson?
The financial viability of constructing an ADU in Carson hinges on construction costs and the local real estate market. A 900-square-foot ADU in this area is valued at approximately $450,000. With a total construction cost of around $390,000, this yields a return on investment of about 15%.
Profitability can also be evaluated by considering potential rental income or the advantages of having family members reside on the same property.
Can you sell an ADU in Carson?
AB 1033 lets local agencies in California create rules for selling accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and primary homes as condominiums while keeping current ADU development regulations.
In Calabasas, selling an ADU involves a local ordinance that specifies certain conditions: the ADU can be sold if a qualified nonprofit corporation built it, if there's a recorded tenancy in common agreement, or if the city allows the ADU and main home to be sold as separate condominiums.
Are ADUs rent-controlled in Carson?
ADUs in Carson are not subject to rent control. Rent control typically applies to older properties, usually those over 15 years old. Since ADUs are newly built, they fall outside of these regulations, meaning laws like AB 1482 do not affect them.
How do I get money to build an ADU in Carson?
Homeowners in the city have several avenues to explore. Participating in the CalHFA ADU Grant Program, which operates within Carson, is one such option. This program offers grants of up to $40,000, depending on the homeowner's income, with a maximum income threshold of $158,000 for owner-occupied properties. These funds can be allocated towards various initial expenses such as site preparation, ADU design, permits, and associated costs. Moreover, homeowners retain the autonomy to select tenants for their ADU.
Find out how much value an ADU could add to your property.
Related Articles
ADU Solutions for Aging in Place in Carson
All You Need to Know About Building on Properties in Carson Under SB-9
Everything You Need to Know About SB-684 Development in Carson
How to get your permits fast or the benefits of using SB-423 in Carson