Cali ADU Design+Build
What are the requirements to build ADU in El Segundo?
Constructing an ADU in El Segundo allows you to expand your living space and create personalized areas such as a home office or recreation room. For a successful project, it is important to understand El Segundo's local regulations and carefully evaluate the financial aspects of construction. This guide provides detailed insights into El Segundo's ADU regulations and key financial considerations, assisting you in planning and executing your project effectively.
ADU regulations for properties with a single-family home
How many ADUs can you build in El Segundo?
In El Segundo, one ADU can be built within a proposed or existing single-family dwelling, regardless of whether it is attached or detached from the primary building.
How large can an attached ADU be in El Segundo?
An attached ADU in El Segundo can be as large as 49% of the total floor area of the combined dwellings, with a maximum size of 850 square feet or 1,000 square feet for a two-bedroom unit.
How large can a detached ADU be in El Segundo?
The maximum size for a detached ADU in El Segundo is 1,200 square feet. For a two-bedroom unit, it can be up to 850 square feet or 1,000 square feet.
Can I build a 2-story ADU in El Segundo?
Yes, a 2-story ADU is allowed in El Segundo.
Is there a minimum size for an ADU?
No, El Segundo does not specify a minimum size for ADUs. However, the Building Code will require a minimum size for each room type to create livable spaces.
Can I convert the existing space to an ADU?
Yes, converting existing space into an ADU is allowed in single-family homes in El Segundo.
What is the maximum height for an ADU?
The height limit for an ADU on a property with a single-family house is 32 feet for buildings with a pitched roof and 26 feet for those with a flat roof, following the rules for residential structures in the R-1 Zone.
ADU regulations for properties with a multi-family building
How many ADUs does El Segundo allow for multifamily properties?
In El Segundo, multifamily properties can have at least one ADU or up to 25% of the existing units. You can also build up to two detached ADUs on the property.
How large can an attached ADU for a multifamily building be in El Segundo?
For multifamily buildings, an attached ADU in El Segundo can occupy up to 49% of the total floor area of the combined dwellings, with a maximum size of 850 square feet or 1,000 square feet for a two-bedroom unit.
How large can a detached ADU for a multifamily building be in El Segundo?
In multifamily buildings, a detached ADU can reach a maximum size of 1,200 square feet. It can also be up to 850 square feet or 1,000 square feet for a two-bedroom unit.
Can I stack detached ADUs on top of each other?
Currently, El Segundo has not addressed the possibility of stacking detached ADUs on top of each other.
Can I attach two ADUs to each other?
No. Attaching two ADUs to each other is not allowed in El Segundo. Instead, ADUs should only be connected to the primary building.
Can I convert the existing space to an ADU?
Yes, converting existing space into an ADU is allowed in multifamily buildings in El Segundo.
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 is the same as for a single-family house.
What ADU types are allowed to build in El Segundo?
El Segundo provides multiple options for constructing ADUs:
(1) Detached ADU: A separate structure, completely independent from the primary residence.
(2) Attached ADU: A unit built as an extension directly connected to the existing home.
(3) Converted ADU: Converting underutilized spaces, like garages, storage rooms, or sheds, into livable areas equipped with features such as a kitchen and bathroom.
You can either build a new structure or convert an existing one. Repurposing areas like garages or sheds often exempts you from certain restrictions, including setback and height requirements, and may permit small additions. However, dealing with older structures could lead to unexpected issues, potentially increasing project costs.
ADU setbacks from the property lines and other buildings
What are the required setbacks for an ADU in El Segundo?
For ADUs attached to or within a primary dwelling in El Segundo, setbacks follow the same rules as the primary dwelling in their zones. If the ADU is detached, it should be at least 4 feet from the interior side or rear lot lines.
What is the minimum distance the ADU must have from the existing structures?
El Segundo doesn’t specify a minimum distance for ADUs from existing structures, but it's common for many cities to suggest at least 6 feet away from existing buildings.
Are setbacks required when converting existing structures into ADU?
No, setbacks are not required for converting existing structures into ADUs in El Segundo.
Can I build an ADU in the front yard of my house in El Segundo?
Yes, in El Segundo, you can place an ADU in the front yard if the property lacks adequate space to accommodate a unit of at least 800 square feet in other areas. However, zoning setback requirements should still be met.
Design requirements for ADU
How many bedrooms can an ADU have?
El Segundo requires that an ADU have at least one bedroom, unlike other cities that may permit studio units.
Does an ADU need to have a kitchen?
Yes, typically an ADU in El Segundo requires a complete kitchen for cooking, unlike JADUs which may have efficiency kitchens.
Does an ADU require independent utility meters?
A new or separate utility connection directly between the ADU and the utility may be needed.
What is the minimum ceiling height?
Habitable spaces such as ADUs should follow the California Building Code's minimum requirement of 7 feet for ceiling height.
Find out the maximum ADU size for your property here
The parking requirements for ADU
What is the parking requirement for an ADU in El Segundo?
No parking spaces are required for ADU within a half-mile walking distance of a public transit stop.
Where can I have a parking space on my property?
El Segundo doesn't provide specific rules for where parking spaces can go. However, in many cities in Los Angeles County, parking spaces can typically be placed in setbacks or existing driveways, often arranged as tandem parking. If a garage, carport, or covered parking structure is removed or turned into an ADU, there's no need to replace the lost parking spaces.
How to get permits for your ADU
How long does it take to get an ADU permit in El Segundo?
In El Segundo, acquiring an ADU permit generally takes around 105 to 120 days. Once your architectural drawings are ready, they can be submitted for a Plan Check. Meeting with a planner beforehand can help ensure the application is thorough and accurate.
After submission and payment, the city has 8 weeks to review and determine if the application is complete. If no decision is made within this period, the permit is automatically approved. Should revisions be required, your designer should make the necessary updates and resubmit the plans. Applications should demonstrate compliance with ADU regulations, as missing information alone is not a valid reason for denial. The plan check fee for ADUs in El Segundo is roughly $1,647.
Does El Segundo require in-person submission of plans for an ADU?
No. In El Segundo, plans and documents for ADUs should be submitted electronically.
Does El Segundo require coastal development permits?
Yes, to ensure compliance with the City's certified Local Coastal Plan, coastal development permits are needed for all public and private development within the Coastal Zone of El Segundo.
When do you need a licensed professional to design an ADU in El Segundo?
It's recommended to consult a licensed professional such as an architect or engineer when designing an ADU in El Segundo, especially if unconventional construction methods are being considered.
Cost, financing and market value of ADUs
How much does it cost to build an ADU in El Segundo?
Constructing an ADU in El Segundo typically costs around $380 per square foot, including expenses for permits, architectural design, and engineering services. For example, building a 900-square-foot ADU would generally cost about $390,000, covering both soft and hard costs.
Is it profitable to build an ADU in El Segundo?
To assess the financial viability of building an ADU in El Segundo, it's crucial to compare construction costs with local real estate market values. For instance, a 900-square-foot ADU could be valued at approximately $850,000. Given the construction cost of $390,000, this suggests a potential return on investment of around 100%.
Additionally, profitability considerations may include potential rental income or the benefits of housing family members on the same property.
Can you sell an ADU in El Segundo?
AB 1033 allows local agencies in California to establish regulations for selling accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and primary homes as condominiums while keeping existing ADU development rules.
In El Monte, selling an ADU should comply with specific local ordinances. The ADU can be sold if it was built by a qualified nonprofit organization, if a recorded tenancy in common agreement exists, or if the city permits the sale of both the ADU and the primary home as separate condominiums.
Are ADUs rent controlled in El Segundo?
No. Rent control regulations, such as those outlined in AB 1482, do not apply to ADUs in El Segundo. Landlords of newly constructed ADUs have the freedom to increase rents annually. However, it's important to note that rent control only pertains to buildings that are 15 years old or older.
How do I get money to build an ADU in El Segundo?
Explore options like the CalHFA’s ADU Grant Program, which offers grants of up to $40,000. These grants cover pre-development and closing costs such as architectural designs, permits, and site preparation, aligning with California's affordable housing projects.
Find out how much value an ADU could add to your property.
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