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What are the requirements to build ADU in Lemon Grove?
Building an ADU in Lemon Grove enables you to increase your living space and provide affordable housing for adult children transitioning to independent living. To ensure your ADU project's success, it is crucial to understand Lemon Grove's local regulations and thoroughly evaluate the financial implications of construction. This guide provides comprehensive insights into Lemon Grove's ADU regulations and key financial considerations, helping you efficiently plan and execute your project.
ADU regulations for properties with a single-family home
How many ADUs can you build in Lemon Grove?
In Lemon Grove, properties with an existing or proposed single-family residence can build only one ADU, whether it is attached or detached from the primary building.
How large can an attached ADU be in Lemon Grove?
In Lemon Grove, an attached ADU can be up to 50% of the primary residence's floor area, with a minimum size of 800 square feet. However, the floor area size for ADUs is 850 square feet, or 1,200 square feet if they include more than one bedroom.
How large can a detached ADU be in Lemon Grove?
In Lemon Grove, a new detached ADU can be up to 1,200 square feet in size.
Can I build a 2-story ADU in Lemon Grove?
Yes, constructing a two-story ADU is allowed in Lemon Grove.
Is there a minimum size for an ADU?
Yes, the minimum size for an ADU in Lemon Grove is at least 150 square feet, equivalent to an efficiency unit.
Can I convert the existing space to an ADU?
Yes, you can convert existing space within a single-family dwelling into an ADU in Lemon Grove.
What is the maximum height for an ADU?
Single-family home properties in Lemon Grove require ADUs to follow the minimum height standard of 16 feet.
ADU regulations for properties with a multi-family building
How many ADUs does Lemon Grove allow for multifamily properties?
Multifamily properties in Lemon Grove are allowed up to two detached ADUs. Additionally, one or more ADUs can be created within non-livable areas of existing multifamily buildings, provided these conversions do not surpass 25% of the total units.
How large can an attached ADU for a multifamily building be in Lemon Grove?
In Lemon Grove, for multifamily buildings, an attached ADU can occupy up to 50% of the primary residence's floor area, with a minimum size of 800 square feet. However, ADUs should generally be at least 850 square feet, or 1,200 square feet if they include more than one bedroom.
How large can a detached ADU for a multifamily building be in Lemon Grove?
For multifamily buildings in Lemon Grove, a new detached ADU can have a maximum size of 1,200 square feet.
Can I stack detached ADUs on top of each other?
As of now, Lemon Grove hasn't addressed the possibility of stacking detached ADUs on top of each other.
Can I attach two ADUs to each other?
No, in Lemon Grove, this is not allowed. Despite allowing up to two separate ADUs on a lot with an existing multifamily dwelling, the regulations explicitly prohibit their attachment.
Can I convert the existing space to an ADU?
Yes, in Lemon Grove, converting existing space within a multifamily dwelling into an ADU is allowed.
What is the maximum height for an ADU on a property with a multi-family building
Similar to single-family properties, for multifamily buildings in Lemon Grove, ADUs should also meet a minimum height requirement of 16 feet.
What ADU types are allowed to build in Lemon Grove?
In Lemon Grove, homeowners have several ADU options to choose from:
A. Detached ADU: A separate structure that stands apart from the main house.
B. Attached ADU: A unit that is physically connected to the existing home.
C. Converted ADU: Altering unused areas, like garages or sheds, into livable spaces with necessary amenities like kitchens and bathrooms.
Homeowners can opt to build a new ADU or modify an existing structure. Converting spaces such as garages or sheds may offer benefits, like fewer zoning limitations (e.g., setbacks or height restrictions), and may allow for smaller-scale projects. However, updating older structures could reveal unforeseen problems, potentially raising costs.
ADU setbacks from the property lines and other buildings
What are the required setbacks for an ADU in Lemon Grove?
ADUs in Lemon Grove should maintain a minimum setback of 4 feet from the side and rear property lines.
What is the minimum distance the ADU must be from existing structures?
Lemon Grove has not specified a minimum distance for ADUs from existing buildings. However, in many cities within San Diego County, the typical requirement is 6 feet.
Are setbacks required when converting existing structures into ADU?
In Lemon Grove, converting an existing structure into an ADU does not require additional setbacks.
Can I build an ADU in the front yard of my house in Lemon Grove?
An ADU can only be built in the front yard if there are no other suitable spots for an ADU of at least 800 square feet. Following the required zoning setback regulations is required.
Design requirements for ADU
How many bedrooms can an ADU have?
ADUs in Lemon Grove are required to have at least one bedroom.
Does an ADU need to have a kitchen?
Yes, ADUs in Lemon Grove should feature full kitchens, unlike the efficiency kitchens found in JADUs.
Does an ADU require independent utility meters?
Lemon Grove has not provided specific guidance regarding the need for separate utility meters for ADUs. It is recommended to seek clarification from the appropriate authorities for further details.
What is the minimum ceiling height?
The minimum ceiling height required by the California Building Code, which applies to habitable spaces including ADUs in Lemon Grove, is 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 Lemon Grove?
Lemon Grove requires one parking space per ADU or bedroom, whichever is less. Exceptions to this rule include ADUs near public transit, in historic districts, part of the main residence, when on-street parking permits are not available, or when a car share vehicle is within a block.
Where can I have a parking space on my property?
In Lemon Grove, parking for ADUs can be in setback areas or arranged in tandem, unless local conditions or safety issues prevent this. If a garage or carport is converted or removed for an ADU, the local authority cannot demand that off-street parking spaces for the primary residence be replaced.
How to get permits for your ADU
How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Lemon Grove?
The permitting process typically takes about 3.5 to 4 months. Once the permit drawings are ready, either you or your architect will need to submit them for a Plan Check. It is advisable to arrange a pre-plan check meeting with the city planner to go over your application before submission.
After submission and payment of the required fees, the city has 60 days to determine if your application is complete. If no response is provided within that period, the permit will be automatically approved. If revisions are necessary, your designer will need to make the changes and resubmit. The application should include enough details to demonstrate compliance with ADU requirements. Missing information will not result in rejection but should be corrected. The estimated cost for Plan Checks in Lemon Grove for ADU projects is around $1,393.
Does Lemon Grove require in-person submission of plans for an ADU?
Yes, in Lemon Grove, submitting plans for an ADU should be done in person to the city's Planning Division, as electronic submission is not currently available.
Does Lemon Grove require coastal development permits?
No, Lemon Grove does not have areas subject to coastal requirements.
When do you need a licensed professional to design an ADU in Lemon Grove?
In Lemon Grove, the requirement for a licensed professional to design an ADU primarily depends on the project's level of complexity.
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How much does it cost to build an ADU in Lemon Grove?
Building an ADU in Lemon Grove typically costs around $325 per square foot, including expenses for permits, architectural design, and engineering services. For example, constructing a 900-square-foot ADU would generally cost about $330,000, covering both soft and hard costs.
Is it profitable to build an ADU in Lemon Grove?
Evaluating the financial viability of building an ADU in Lemon Grove involves comparing construction costs with local real estate market values. For instance, a 900-square-foot ADU could potentially be valued at approximately $530,000. With construction costs estimated at $330,000, this suggests a potential return on investment of 60%.
Additionally, profitability considerations may include potential rental income or the benefits of accommodating family members on the same property.
Can you sell an ADU in Lemon Grove?
California's AB 1033 allows local governments to create regulations for the sale of ADUs and primary residences as condominiums, as long as they adhere to existing development standards.
In Imperial Beach, local laws regulate the sale of ADUs. An ADU can be sold if it was built by a certified nonprofit organization, if a valid tenancy-in-common agreement exists, or if the city approves the separate sale of the ADU and the main residence as individual condominiums.
Are ADUs rent-controlled in Lemon Grove?
No, in Lemon Grove, ADUs are not under rent control regulations. They are treated as new constructions and are not bound by laws such as AB 1482, which permits landlords to annually raise rents. This exemption usually applies to buildings that are at least 15 years old.
How do I get money to build an ADU in Lemon Grove?
Homeowners in Lemon Grove can consider applying for the CalHFA's ADU grant program, administered by the California Community Economic Development Association (CCEDA), to secure funding for ADU construction. This program provides grants of $40,000 to eligible homeowners, intended to cover pre-construction expenses related to ADU construction. Notably, 54% of these grants are designated for low-income households, promoting affordability.
Find out how much value an ADU could add to your property.
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