City of Claremont
What are the requirements to build ADU in Claremont?
Constructing an ADU on your Claremont property provides the opportunity to add extra space for your household, generate additional income, and boost the resale value of your home. For a successful ADU build, it's important to have a solid understanding of Claremont's local rules and to thoroughly evaluate the financial aspects involved. This guide offers detailed information on the city's ADU guidelines and important financial factors to consider, supporting effective planning and project completion.
ADU regulations for properties with a single-family home
How many ADUs can you build in Claremont?
In Claremont, you can have a maximum of one ADU per single-family residential lot. You can either attach or detach this ADU from the primary building.
How large can an attached ADU be in Claremont?
An attached ADU can be up to 50% of the existing primary dwelling, with a maximum of 850 sq. ft. for one-bedroom units and 1,000 sq. ft. for those with more than one bedroom.
How large can a detached ADU be in Claremont?
A detached ADU can be up to 850 square feet for units with one bedroom and 1,000 square feet for those with more than one bedroom.
Can I build a 2-story ADU in Claremont?
No, constructing a two-story ADU is not allowed in Claremont.
Is there a minimum size for an ADU?
Yes, the minimum size for an ADU is 150 square feet.
Can I convert the existing space to an ADU?
Yes, existing space can be converted into an ADU.
What is the maximum height for an ADU?
The maximum height for an ADU is 16 feet and cannot be higher than the plate height of the primary dwelling. Additionally, it cannot be built over a garage.
ADU regulations for properties with a multi-family building
How many ADUs does Claremont allow for multifamily properties?
Claremont does not specify the number of ADUs allowed for multifamily properties.
How large can an attached ADU for a multifamily building be in Claremont?
An attached ADU for a multifamily building in Claremont can be up to 50% of the size of the existing primary dwelling, with a maximum of 850 sq. ft. for one-bedroom units and 1,000 sq. ft. for those with more than one bedroom.
How large can a detached ADU for a multifamily building be in Claremont?
A detached ADU for a multifamily building in Claremont can be up to 850 square feet for units with one bedroom and 1,000 square feet for those with more than one bedroom.
Can I stack detached ADUs on top of each other?
In Claremont, there are no specific regulations regarding the stacking of detached ADUs.
Can I attach two ADUs to each other?
No, in Claremont, two ADUs cannot be attached to each other.
Can I convert the existing space to an ADU?
Yes, existing space within multifamily dwelling structures can be converted into an ADU.
What is the maximum height for an ADU on a property with a multi-family building
Multifamily properties have the same height regulations as single-family properties.
What ADU types are allowed to build in Claremont?
Several types of ADUs are permitted:
1. Detached ADU: A standalone unit separate from the main house.
2. Attached ADU: A newly built addition physically connected to the existing home.
3. Converted ADU: Converting existing non-livable spaces, such as garages, sheds, or storage areas, into a unit with features like a kitchen and bathroom.
You can construct a new ADU or convert an existing structure. Conversions, such as garages or sheds, often bypass setback and height restrictions and may allow for expansion. However, older structures might present unforeseen challenges, potentially increasing costs.
ADU setbacks from the property lines and other buildings
What are the required setbacks for an ADU in Claremont?
An ADU should maintain a minimum setback of 4 feet from the rear and side property lines. Setback requirements for the front yard will follow the regulations of the designated zoning district.
If an ADU is located less than 8 feet from the property line, its sides cannot have exterior entrances or windows lower than six feet above the ground.
What is the minimum distance the ADU must have from the existing structures?
Claremont doesn't specify a minimum distance, but many cities require at least 6 feet.
Are setbacks required when converting existing structures into ADU?
No setbacks are required when converting existing structures into an ADU in Claremont.
Can I build an ADU in the front yard of my house in Claremont?
Building an ADU in the front yard of your Claremont 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 Claremont, an ADU unit may have up to two bedrooms.
Does an ADU need to have a kitchen?
In California, most ADUs feature a full kitchen, whereas JADUs tend to have smaller efficiency kitchens.
Does an ADU require independent utility meters?
The Claremont Municipal Code does not specify whether ADUs need independent utility meters.
What is the minimum ceiling height?
As per state regulations, ADUs in Claremont 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 Claremont?
At least one off-street parking space is required for an ADU in Claremont.
Parking standards do not apply if:
- The ADU is within half a mile of public transit.
- It is located in a significant historic district.
- The ADU is part of the primary residence or an existing accessory structure.
- A car-share vehicle area is within one block.
- On-street parking permits are required but not provided to ADU occupants.
Where can I have a parking space on my property?
Parking spaces can be on the same lot as the ADU and may be located in required setback areas, including tandem parking. If a garage or carport is converted into an ADU, replacement spaces can be configured in various ways on the same lot.
How to get permits for your ADU
How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Claremont?
The permitting process typically 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 recommended to schedule 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 determine if the application is complete. If no response is provided within that timeframe, the permit is automatically approved. If corrections are required, your designer should make the necessary revisions and resubmit. The application should include enough information to demonstrate compliance with ADU regulations, as incomplete details alone are not grounds for denial. Plan checks for ADU projects in Claremont are estimated at $2,230.
Does Claremont require in-person submission of plans for an ADU?
Yes, to apply, reach out to the Planning Division by calling (909) 399-5470 or visit City Hall in person.
Does Claremont require coastal development permits?
No, in Claremont, ADUs are not subject to coastal development permit requirements.
When do you need a licensed professional to design an ADU in Claremont?
In Claremont, the need for a licensed designer for an ADU is based on the project's level of complexity.
Cost, financing and market value of ADUs
How much does it cost to build an ADU in Claremont?
The cost of constructing an ADU in Claremont is generally around $380 per square foot, covering permits, architectural design, and engineering fees. For instance, a 900-square-foot ADU would typically amount to approximately $390,000, incorporating both soft and hard costs.
Is it profitable to build an ADU in Claremont?
Whether building an ADU in Claremont is financially beneficial depends on if the increase in property value surpasses the construction costs. For example, a 900-square-foot ADU might be valued at about $450,000, while the cost to build it is roughly $390,000. This creates a notable difference, suggesting a potential 15% return on investment.
Moreover, aspects like possible rental income or housing family members on the same property can further affect overall profitability.
Can you sell an ADU in Claremont?
AB 1033 allows local agencies in California to set rules for selling ADUs and primary homes as condominiums while keeping existing regulations for ADU development.
In Claremont, certain conditions have to be met for an ADU to be sold: it can be sold if a qualified nonprofit organization constructed it, if there is a recorded tenancy in common agreement, or if the city permits the ADU and primary dwelling to be sold as separate condominiums.
Are ADUs rent-controlled in Claremont?
No, in Claremont, ADUs do not fall under rent control rules. Since they are classified as new constructions, they are not bound by laws such as AB 1482, which allows landlords to raise rent each year. This exemption is specifically for buildings that are over 15 years old.
How do I get money to build an ADU in Claremont?
To get funding for building an ADU in Claremont, consider the CalHFA ADU Grant Program. This program offers up to $40,000 to cover pre-development and one-time closing costs related to constructing an ADU. Eligible pre-development expenses can include site preparation, architectural designs, permits, soil tests, impact fees, property surveys, and energy reports. Homeowners need to have low or moderate income to qualify for this grant.
Find out how much value an ADU could add to your property.
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