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What are the requirements to build ADU in San Fernando?
Constructing an ADU in San Fernando provides an opportunity to expand your living space and increase property value and potential resale value. To ensure the success of your ADU project, it's essential to understand local regulations and evaluate the financial implications of construction in San Fernando. This guide provides detailed insights into San Fernando's ADU regulations and critical financial considerations, helping you plan and execute your project efficiently.
ADU regulations for properties with a single-family home
How many ADUs can you build in San Fernando?
San Fernando allows only one ADU per single-family residence, whether it is attached or detached from the primary building.
How large can an attached ADU be in San Fernando?
Attached ADUs in San Fernando cannot be larger than either 640 square feet or 50 percent of the primary residence's living area, whichever is smaller.
How large can a detached ADU be in San Fernando?
The maximum size for a detached ADU in San Fernando is 640 square feet.
Can I build a 2-story ADU in San Fernando?
Yes, it is allowed to construct a 2-story ADU in San Fernando.
Is there a minimum size of an ADU?
Yes, for a detached ADU, the minimum size is equivalent to that of an efficiency unit, which is 150 square feet.
Can I convert the existing space to an ADU?
Yes, existing space can be converted into an ADU in single-family homes in San Fernando.
What is the maximum height for an ADU?
Detached ADUs are limited to a single story, preferably located behind the primary structure to ensure the privacy of neighboring properties. However, if the primary structure is positioned at the rear of the parcel, a single-story ADU may be located at the front.
Additionally, second-story attached ADUs are only allowed at the rear of existing two-story single-family homes.
ADU regulations for properties with a multi-family building
How many ADUs does San Fernando allow for multifamily properties?
San Fernando allows one ADU on multifamily properties, but if an ADU is added to an R-2 or R-3 zone with a single-family residence, no additional units can be developed on that lot.
How large can an attached ADU for a multifamily building be in San Fernando?
Attached ADUs in San Fernando, for multifamily buildings, are limited to a maximum size of either 640 square feet or 50 percent of the primary residence's living area, whichever is smaller.
How large can a detached ADU for a multifamily building be in San Fernando?
The maximum size for a detached ADU in San Fernando, for multifamily buildings, is 640 square feet.
Can I stack detached ADUs on top of each other?
As of now, San Fernando has not addressed the possibility of stacking detached ADUs on top of each other.
Can I attach two ADUs to each other?
No, in San Fernando, it's not allowed to attach two ADUs to each other. Instead, they should be attached to the primary unit.
Can I convert the existing space to an ADU?
Yes, existing space can be converted into an ADU in multifamily homes in San Fernando.
What is the maximum height for an ADU on a property with a multi-family building
The regulations do not specify the maximum height for an ADU on a property with a multifamily building in San Fernando.
What ADU types are allowed to build in San Fernando?
In San Fernando, several types of ADUs are permitted:
- Detached ADU: A newly constructed building separate from the main house.
- Attached ADU: A new structure that is physically connected to the main house.
- Converted ADU: A conversion of an existing non-living space, like a garage, storage area, or shed, into a living unit with a kitchen or kitchenette and a bathroom.
Converting existing structures into ADUs can be advantageous since setback and height restrictions typically don't apply. Additionally, the structure can be expanded to create a larger ADU. However, renovating older structures may lead to unexpected expenses due to hidden issues.
ADU setbacks from the property lines and other buildings
What are the required setbacks for an ADU in San Fernando?
In San Fernando, there are no specified setbacks required for an ADU as long as there are adequate side and rear setbacks to meet fire safety standards.
What is the minimum distance the ADU must have from the existing structures?
San Fernando does not have a specific minimum distance requirement for ADUs from existing buildings. However, in many cities, ADUs are typically required to be at least 6 feet away from existing structures.
Are setbacks required when converting existing structures into ADU?
No setbacks are needed for converting a legally built garage into an ADU.
Can I build an ADU in the front yard of my house in San Fernando?
Yes, you can build a single-story ADU in the front yard of your house in San Fernando if the primary structure is located at the rear of the parcel. However, second-story attached ADUs are only allowed at the rear of existing two-story single-family homes.
Design requirements for ADU
How many bedrooms can an ADU have?
In San Fernando, ADUs can have a maximum of one bedroom.
Does an ADU need to have a kitchen?
Yes, an ADU in San Fernando should include one full kitchen, as per regulations.
Does an ADU require independent utility meters?
The city does not require an independent utility connection for ADUs but does impose a capacity charge.
What is the minimum ceiling height?
In San Fernando, the minimum ceiling height is 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 San Fernando?
In San Fernando, each ADU needs one off-street parking space. However, exemptions exist if the ADU is within half a mile of public transit, in significant architectural or historical areas, part of the primary residence or accessory structure, if on-street parking permits are unavailable, or if a car-share vehicle is within one block.
Where can I have a parking space on my property?
Parking can be tandem on an existing driveway or in paved setback areas, subject to site conditions. If a garage is removed for ADU construction, the number of parking spaces lost should be replaced in configurations such as covered, uncovered, or tandem.
How to get permits for your ADU
How long does it take to get an ADU permit in San Fernando?
In San Fernando, obtaining an ADU permit typically takes around 3.5 to 4 months. It's recommended to consult with a city planner before submitting your plans to ensure they comply with all necessary regulations.
After submitting your plans and paying the fees, the city has 60 days to confirm whether your application is complete. If no response is received within that time, your permit will be automatically approved. Any required revisions should be made and resubmitted. Incomplete information won't lead to a denial, but it should be corrected. The estimated Plan Check fee for ADU projects is $3,586.
Does San Fernando require in-person submission of plans for an ADU?
No, applicants should use the Online Permit Counter for submitting building permit applications or uploading plans for Building Plan Check, offering a convenient alternative to in-person submissions.
Does San Fernando require coastal development permits?
No, San Fernando doesn't ask for coastal development permits.
When do you need a licensed professional to design an ADU in San Fernando?
In San Fernando, whether you need a licensed professional for ADU design depends on the project's complexity.
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How much does it cost to build an ADU in San Fernando?
Constructing an ADU in San Fernando typically requires budgeting around $380 per square foot, encompassing expenses such as permits, architectural design, and engineering services. For instance, building a 900-square-foot ADU would generally total approximately $390,000, covering both soft and hard costs.
Is it profitable to build an ADU in San Fernando?
Assessing the financial feasibility of constructing an ADU in San Fernando involves comparing construction costs with local real estate market values. For example, a 900-square-foot ADU could potentially be valued at about $530,000. Considering construction expenses estimated at $390,000, this suggests a potential return on investment of 36%.
Additionally, profitability considerations may also include potential rental income or the benefits of accommodating family members on the same property.
Can you sell an ADU in San Fernando?
California's AB 1033 allows municipalities to establish guidelines for selling ADUs as condominiums alongside main homes, provided they adhere to current ADU regulations.
In San Fernando, local laws dictate how ADUs can be sold. These units are eligible for sale if built by a recognized nonprofit. Additionally, sales can take place through a tenancy-in-common arrangement or if the city permits the ADU and the main home to be sold separately as condominium units.
Are ADUs rent-controlled in San Fernando?
No, ADUs in San Fernando are not governed by rent control laws. They are considered new constructions and are exempt from regulations like AB 1482, which permits landlords to annually adjust rents. This exemption applies to buildings that are at least 15 years old.
How do I get money to build an ADU in San Fernando?
To finance the construction of an ADU in San Fernando, homeowners can apply for the CalHFA's ADU grant program, administered by the California Community Economic Development Association (CCEDA). This program offers eligible homeowners grants of $40,000 to cover pre-construction expenses for ADU construction. Furthermore, more than half of these grants are reserved for low-income households, enhancing affordability.
Find out how much value an ADU could add to your property.
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