ADU HOMES
What are the requirements to build ADU in La Habra Heights?
Building an ADU in La Habra Heights provides an opportunity to increase your living space and create rental income. Understanding the local regulations and thoroughly evaluating the financial aspects of construction is essential for a successful project. This guide delivers comprehensive information on La Habra Heights' ADU regulations and important financial considerations, helping you plan and execute your project effectively.
ADU regulations for properties with a single-family home
How many ADUs can you build in La Habra Heights?
In La Habra Heights, you can build one ADU on a lot with either an existing or proposed single-family home, regardless of whether it is attached to or detached from the primary building.
How large can an attached ADU be in La Habra Heights?
In La Habra Heights, an attached ADU can be up to 50 percent of the size of the existing primary home. The maximum size is 850 square feet for a studio or one-bedroom unit and 1,000 square feet for a unit with more than one bedroom. Regardless of other development regulations, the ADU should be at least 800 square feet, even when size limits or front setback rules are considered.
How large can a detached ADU be in La Habra Heights?
In La Habra Heights, a detached 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. While other development standards may apply, these cannot reduce the size of the ADU to less than 800 square feet.
Can I build a 2-story ADU in La Habra Heights?
Yes, you can build a 2-story ADU in La Habra Heights.
Is there a minimum size for an ADU?
No, there is no minimum size requirement for an ADU in La Habra Heights.
Can I convert the existing space to an ADU?
Yes, you can convert existing space into an ADU within a single-family home in La Habra Heights.
What is the maximum height for an ADU?
For a property with a single-family house in La Habra Heights, the maximum height for a detached ADU is 18 feet. This can be increased to 20 feet if needed to match the roof pitch of the primary dwelling and if the property is within half a mile of a major transit stop or high-quality transit corridor. An attached ADU can be up to 25 feet in height or the height limit of the primary dwelling's zone, whichever is lower, and cannot be higher than two stories.
ADU regulations for properties with a multi-family building
How many ADUs does La Habra Heights allow for multifamily properties?
La Habra Heights allows at least one converted ADU within an existing multifamily building, limited to 25% of the total units. Additionally, a maximum of two detached ADUs can be constructed.
How large can an attached ADU for a multifamily building be in La Habra Heights?
In La Habra Heights, an attached ADU for a multifamily building can be up to 50% of the size of the existing primary dwelling. The maximum size allowed is 850 square feet for a studio or one-bedroom unit and 1,000 square feet for a unit with more than one bedroom. Regardless of other development rules, the ADU cannot be smaller than 800 square feet due to percentage-based size limits or front setback requirements.
How large can a detached ADU for a multifamily building be in La Habra Heights?
In La Habra Heights, a detached ADU for 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 more than one bedroom. Although other development standards may be enforced, they cannot reduce the ADU's size below 800 square feet.
Can I stack detached ADUs on top of each other?
In La Habra Heights, there is currently no specific regulation regarding the stacking of detached ADUs on top of each other.
Can I attach two ADUs to each other?
No, in La Habra Heights, you cannot attach two ADUs to each other.
Can I convert the existing space to an ADU?
Yes, in La Habra Heights, you can convert existing space into an ADU within a multifamily building.
What is the maximum height for an ADU on a property with a multi-family building
For a property with a multifamily building in La Habra Heights, the maximum height for a detached ADU is 18 feet, or up to 20 feet if within a designated distance from a major transit stop or high-quality transit corridor and determined by roof pitch alignment. However, if the multifamily building is more than one story above grade, the maximum height remains 18 feet. An attached ADU has a height restriction of 25 feet or the height limit of the primary dwelling's zone, and it cannot exceed two stories.
What ADU types are allowed to build in La Habra Heights?
La Habra Heights provides various options for adding ADUs:
A detached ADU is a standalone structure separate from the primary residence. An attached ADU is built onto or incorporated into the main house. A converted ADU converts existing spaces, such as garages, storage areas, or sheds, into fully equipped living quarters with features like a kitchen and bathroom.
You can either construct a new ADU or adapt an existing structure. Converting areas like garages or sheds can sometimes bypass zoning restrictions, such as setback or height requirements, and may allow for small additions. However, working with older structures could lead to unforeseen issues, potentially raising costs.
ADU setbacks from the property lines and other buildings
What are the required setbacks for an ADU in La Habra Heights?
ADUs require a setback of 35 feet from the front property line and 4 feet from side or rear property lines. For ADUs on a through or corner lot, the lot should face at least one street with a paved roadway of 20 feet or wider that is free of obstructions.
What is the minimum distance the ADU must have from the existing structures?
In La Habra Heights, there is no specific requirement for the distance between an ADU and existing structures. However, many cities typically maintain a separation of about 6 feet.
Are setbacks required when converting existing structures into ADU?
No, setbacks are not required when converting existing structures into ADUs in La Habra Heights.
Can I build an ADU in the front yard of my house in La Habra Heights?
Yes, but only if the property lacks sufficient space to accommodate an ADU of at least 800 square feet elsewhere on the lot. Compliance with zoning setback requirements is still necessary.
Design requirements for ADU
How many bedrooms can an ADU have?
An ADU in La Habra Heights should have a minimum of one bedroom unless it's a studio unit.
Does an ADU need to have a kitchen?
Yes. Unlike JADUs, which only need an efficiency kitchen, an ADU in La Habra Heights should have a complete kitchen.
Does an ADU require independent utility meters?
If an ADU is built alongside a new single-family home, it requires an independent utility connection between the ADU and the utility.
What is the minimum ceiling height?
Typically, in La Habra Heights, habitable spaces, including ADUs, should meet the California Building Code's minimum ceiling height requirement 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 La Habra Heights?
In La Habra Heights, each ADU should provide one off-street parking space, with exceptions for those within half a mile of public transit, in significant architectural or historical districts, part of the main residence or accessory structure where on-street parking permits are unavailable, or near a car share vehicle stop.
Where can I have a parking space on my property?
Parking spaces can be in setback areas or arranged as tandem parking. If in a required front yard, parking should be on an existing paved driveway or in a new space attached to the driveway within the setback. If a garage, carport, or covered parking structure is removed to build or convert to an ADU, replacement off-street parking is not required.
How to get permits for your ADU
How long does it take to get an ADU permit in La Habra Heights?
Obtaining an ADU permit in La Habra Heights typically takes about 3.5 to 4 months. Once your permit drawings are ready, you or your architect must submit them for a Plan Check. It's advisable to arrange a pre-plan check meeting with a planner to confirm that your application is complete before submission.
After submission and payment of fees, the city has 60 days to determine if the application is complete. If no response is given within this timeframe, the permit is automatically approved. If corrections are required, your designer will need to revise and resubmit the plans. The application must meet ADU regulations, as incomplete information alone will not lead to rejection. The plan check fee for ADU applications in La Habra Heights is about $2,642.
Does La Habra Heights require in-person submission of plans for an ADU?
Yes, in La Habra Heights, it's necessary to personally deliver plans for an ADU to the city's Planning Division, as electronic submission isn't currently an option. These plans should showcase conformity with local zoning regulations and guidelines.
Does La Habra Heights require coastal development permits?
No, coastal development permits are not required in La Habra Heights.
When do you need a licensed professional to design an ADU in La Habra Heights?
In La Habra Heights, the requirement for a licensed professional to design an ADU is based on the complexity of the project.
Cost, financing and market value of ADUs
How much does it cost to build an ADU in La Habra Heights?
Constructing an ADU in La Habra Heights typically costs around $380 per square foot, including expenses for permits, architectural design, and engineering services. For instance, 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 La Habra Heights?
To assess the financial viability of building an ADU in La Habra Heights, it's important to compare construction costs with local real estate market values. For example, a 900-square-foot ADU could be valued at approximately $450,000. Given the construction cost of $390,000, this suggests a potential return on investment of around 15%.
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 La Habra Heights?
Local agencies in California have the authority to set rules for selling ADUs and primary homes as condominiums while upholding existing ADU development standards.
In La Habra Heights, the sale of an ADU is ruled by local regulations. An ADU may be sold if constructed by a qualified nonprofit if a recorded tenancy in common agreement exists, or if the city permits the separate sale of the ADU and the primary home as condominiums.
Are ADUs rent-controlled in La Habra Heights?
No, ADUs in La Habra Heights are not subject to rent control regulations. Landlords of new constructions, including ADUs, can increase rents each year. According to AB 1482, rent control applies only to buildings that are at least 15 years old.
How do I get money to build an ADU in La Habra Heights?
To fund ADU construction in La Habra Heights, consider the CalHFA ADU Grant Program. This program provides grants of up to $40,000 to help cover pre-development and closing costs, including architectural designs, permits, and site preparation. These resources support ADU development as part of California's efforts to increase affordable housing.
Find out how much value an ADU could add to your property.
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