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What are the requirements to build ADU in Covina?
Building an ADU in Covina is a great chance to increase your living space and create extra accommodations on your property, whether for family, rental income, or boosting your home's resale value. To make sure your ADU project goes smoothly, it’s important to know Covina's rules and evaluate the costs involved. This guide outlines Covina’s ADU regulations and key financial considerations, providing the information you need to plan and carry out your project successfully.
ADU regulations for properties with a single-family home
How many ADUs can you build in Covina?
In Covina, it's allowable to construct one ADU, which can either be attached to an existing or proposed single-family dwelling or built as a detached unit.
How large can an attached ADU be in Covina?
In Covina, the maximum allowable size for an attached ADU is 850 square feet for a studio or one-bedroom unit and 1,000 square feet for an ADU with two or more bedrooms, but it should also not be larger than 50 percent of the existing primary dwelling's living area.
How large can a detached ADU be in Covina?
A detached ADU in Covina can also be 850 square feet for a studio or one-bedroom unit and 1,000 square feet for units with two or more bedrooms.
Detached ADUs up to 800 square feet meet all city standards without being limited by municipal code rules on lot coverage, floor area ratio, or open space. Larger detached ADUs are needed to comply with zoning requirements for these factors.
Can I build a 2-story ADU in Covina?
Yes, you can build a 2-story ADU in Covina as long as it meets local rules, including height limits and other zoning requirements.
Is there a minimum size for an ADU?
Yes, the minimum size for an ADU in Covina is 220 square feet of gross floor area.
Can I convert the existing space to an ADU?
Yes, existing space can be converted into an ADU. The unit may also be expanded by up to 150 square feet beyond the original size of the accessory structure for better access.
What is the maximum height for an ADU?
For a property with a single-family house, the maximum height allowed for a detached accessory unit is 16 feet. Detached two-story units, second-story ADUs above garages, or second-story additions to existing single-story homes can go beyond this height, as long as they are within the main dwelling's "buildable area."
ADU regulations for properties with a multi-family building
How many ADUs does Covina allow for multifamily properties?
For multifamily properties in Covina:
- ADUs in Multifamily Buildings: You can have ADUs equal to 25 percent of the existing units or one accessory unit, whichever is greater.
- Detached ADUs on Multifamily Lots: You can have up to two detached ADUs on a lot with an existing multifamily dwelling.
How large can an attached ADU for a multifamily building be in Covina?
In Covina, an attached ADU in a multifamily building 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 two or more bedrooms, as long as it is not larger than 50 percent of the existing primary dwelling's living area.
How large can a detached ADU for a multifamily building be in Covina?
In Covina, a detached ADU for multifamily buildings can also reach a maximum size of 850 square feet for a studio or one-bedroom unit and 1,000 square feet for units with two or more bedrooms.
Detached ADUs of 800 square feet or less meet city standards without facing restrictions from municipal codes, but larger ones need to follow zoning requirements.
Can I stack detached ADUs on top of each other?
No, stacking detached ADUs on top of each other isn't allowed. While you can add a second story above an existing detached structure, you can't stack one detached ADU on another.
Can I attach two ADUs to each other?
No, attaching two ADUs is not allowed in Covina. ADUs should only be attached to the primary building.
Can I convert the existing space to an ADU?
Yes, existing space that isn’t designated for living purposes can be converted into an ADU in multifamily buildings.
What is the maximum height for an ADU on a property with a multi-family building
On a multifamily property, the maximum height for a detached accessory unit is also 16 feet. Detached two-story units or second-story ADUs above garages can also go beyond this height if they stay within the primary dwelling's "buildable area."
What ADU types are allowed to build in Covina?
The types of ADUs you can build include:
1. Detached ADU: A completely separate building located away from the primary residence.
2. Attached ADU: A newly built addition that is physically joined to the existing home.
3. Converted ADU: Converting unused areas, such as a garage, shed, or storage space, into a living unit equipped with essential features like a kitchen and bathroom.
You have the option to construct a brand-new ADU or repurpose an existing structure. Converting spaces like garages or sheds often avoids restrictions on setbacks and height and may allow for expansion. However, working with older structures can reveal unexpected issues, potentially driving up costs.
ADU setbacks from the property lines and other buildings
What are the required setbacks for an ADU in Covina?
ADUs in Covina should maintain a 4-foot setback from both side and rear property lines. However, the city hasn't specified setback rules for ADUs on corner or through lots.
What is the minimum distance the ADU must have from the existing structures?
For detached ADUs larger than 800 square feet in Covina, there should be at least a distance of 6 feet from the primary dwelling and any other accessory structure, measured from eave to eave.
Are setbacks required when converting existing structures into ADU?
No, there’s no need for setbacks when converting an existing constructed garage into an ADU in Covina.
Can I build an ADU in the front yard of my house in Covina?
In Covina, constructing an ADU in your front yard is allowed, but only if your property lacks sufficient space elsewhere to accommodate a unit of at least 800 square feet. You should still comply with zoning setback regulations.
Design requirements for ADU
How many bedrooms can an ADU have?
In Covina, an ADU should have at least 1 bedroom, except studio units.
Does an ADU need to have a kitchen?
Yes, an ADU typically requires a full kitchen, except for Junior ADUs (JADUs), which may have an efficiency kitchen.
Does an ADU require independent utility meters?
No, an ADU doesn't need independent utility meters if it's developed within the existing space of a single-family dwelling or accessory structure and qualifies for approval with just a building permit. In such cases, the city will not require new utility connections or charge connection fees. However, if the ADU is constructed alongside a new single-family dwelling or as a newly built ADU not from existing space, connection charges may apply.
What is the minimum ceiling height?
In Covina, livable areas, including ADUs, should have a minimum ceiling height of at least 7 feet, as required by the California Building Code.
Find out the maximum ADU size for your property here
The parking requirements for ADU
What is the parking requirement for an ADU in Covina?
In Covina, an ADU typically requires one off-street parking space. However, this requirement may be waived if certain conditions are met: if the ADU is within half a mile of public transit, in an architecturally or historically significant district, part of the primary residence or an existing accessory structure, if on-street parking permits aren't provided to the ADU occupant, or if there's a designated car share parking space within one block of the ADU.
Where can I have a parking space on my property?
Parking for an ADU should be on the same lot. It can be in the front, side, or rear yard setbacks, or through tandem parking. Covered parking isn't necessary. If a garage or carport is demolished or converted into an ADU, any lost off-street parking for the primary residence doesn't need replacement.
How to get permits for your ADU
How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Covina?
In Covina, getting an ADU permit typically takes around 3.5 to 4 months. After finalizing your permit drawings, you or your architect can submit them for a Plan Check. It's recommended to schedule a meeting with the planner before submission to ensure everything is in order.
Once your application is submitted and fees are paid, the city has 60 calendar days to assess if the application is complete. If no response is given within this time frame, the permit is granted automatically. Should revisions be necessary, your designer will need to make the changes and resubmit. The application should include enough details to demonstrate compliance with ADU regulations, as incomplete applications cannot be rejected solely for missing information. Plan check fees for ADU projects in Covina are about $1,860.
Does Covina require in-person submission of plans for an ADU?
No, Covina does not require in-person submission of plans for an ADU. It's recommended to submit the entire package by email since they currently do not offer electronic plan checks and permit issuance. Permit technicians will review the submission and let you know of any issues. Incomplete submissions may be rejected by staff.
Does Covina require coastal development permits?
No, within Covina's jurisdiction, there is no requirement for coastal development permits.
When do you need a licensed professional to design an ADU in Covina?
In Covina, whether you need a licensed professional to design an ADU depends on the project specifics.
Cost, financing and market value of ADUs
How much does it cost to build an ADU in Covina?
Building an ADU in Covina typically costs about $380 per square foot. In addition to construction expenses, budgeting should account for permits, architectural design, and engineering services. For instance, the total cost for a 900-square-foot ADU averages approximately $390,000, covering both soft and hard costs.
Is it profitable to build an ADU in Covina?
Assessing the financial potential of constructing an ADU in Covina involves comparing construction costs with local real estate market conditions. For example, a 900-square-foot ADU in Covina is valued at approximately $550,000. Given construction expenses of around $390,000, this suggests a potential return on investment of 39%.
Additionally, profitability can 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 Covina?
AB 1033 allows local agencies in California to set guidelines for selling accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and primary homes as condominiums while maintaining existing ADU development regulations.
In Covina, selling an ADU is subject to a local ordinance that outlines specific conditions: the ADU can be sold if it was built by a qualified nonprofit corporation, if there is a recorded tenancy in common agreement, or if the city permits the sale of both the ADU and the primary home as separate condominiums.
Are ADUs rent-controlled in Covina?
No, there are no rent control regulations for ADUs in Covina. While older buildings may be subject to rent control if they meet certain criteria, such as being at least 15 years old, ADUs are exempt from such rules, like AB 1482, since they are newly built units.
How do I get money to build an ADU in Covina?
In Covina, residents seeking funds to build an ADU have several avenues available. While the CalHFA ADU grant, which covered soft costs like permitting, has been fully allocated as of May 2023, residents can investigate financing programs provided by individual jurisdictions, including Covina. These programs may involve low-interest loans or fee exemptions. Residents may also choose to assess the current ADU market, including rental rates and potential income, to make informed choices.
Find out how much value an ADU could add to your property.
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