abodu
What are the requirements to build ADU in Santa Monica?
Constructing an ADU in Santa Monica presents an excellent opportunity to increase your living space and accommodate multigenerational living or provide a separate area for aging in-laws. To ensure your ADU project is successful, it is essential to understand the city's regulations and evaluate the financial feasibility of building an ADU in Santa Monica. This guide offers a comprehensive overview of Santa Monica's ADU regulations and key 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 Santa Monica?
In Santa Monica, only one ADU, either attached or detached can be built alongside an existing or proposed single-unit dwelling.
How large can an attached ADU be in Santa Monica?
An attached ADU can be up to 850 square feet for a studio or one-bedroom. For ADUs with more than one bedroom, the maximum size is 1,000 square feet on parcels less than 10,000 square feet and 1,200 square feet on parcels 10,000 square feet or larger.
Additionally, if there is an existing primary dwelling, the ADU's total floor area cannot be larger than 50% of the primary dwelling's floor area or the maximum size limits mentioned, whichever is greater.
How large can a detached ADU be in Santa Monica?
The maximum size for a detached ADU is 850 square feet for a studio or one-bedroom unit. For detached or attached ADUs with more than one bedroom, the size limit depends on the parcel size: 1,000 square feet for parcels under 10,000 square feet, and 1,200 square feet for parcels of 10,000 square feet or larger.
Can I build a 2-story ADU in Santa Monica?
Yes, you can build a 2-story ADU in Santa Monica as long as it is not higher than 2 stories.
Is there a minimum size for an ADU?
Yes, the minimum size requirement for an ADU in Santa Monica is 220 square feet of floor area.
Can I convert the existing space to an ADU?
Yes, existing space can be converted into an ADU in Santa Monica.
What is the maximum height for an ADU?
For a property with a single-family house in Santa Monica, the maximum height for an attached ADU is determined by the height limitations of the primary dwelling unit it is attached to. A detached ADU cannot be over 2 stories or 24 feet in height.
ADU regulations for properties with a multi-family building
How many ADUs does Santa Monica allow for multifamily properties?
Multifamily properties in Santa Monica are allowed to convert floor area for ADUs, allowing for at least one ADU or up to 25 percent of the existing total unit, whichever is greater. Additionally, a maximum of two detached ADUs can be built.
How large can an attached ADU for a multifamily building be in Santa Monica?
In Santa Monica, the maximum size for an attached ADU in a multifamily building is 850 square feet for a studio or one-bedroom. For ADUs with more than one bedroom, the size can range up to 1,000 square feet on parcels smaller than 10,000 square feet and up to 1,200 square feet on parcels 10,000 square feet or larger.
Additionally, the total floor area of the ADU cannot be bigger than 50% of the existing primary dwelling's floor area or the maximum size limits specified, whichever is greater.
How large can a detached ADU for a multifamily building be in Santa Monica?
A detached ADU in a multifamily building can reach a maximum size of 850 square feet for a studio or one-bedroom unit. For detached or attached ADUs with more than one bedroom, the allowable size varies based on parcel size: 1,000 square feet for parcels smaller than 10,000 square feet, and 1,200 square feet for parcels larger than 10,000 square feet.
Can I stack detached ADUs on top of each other?
No, the city regulations do not cover the stacking of detached ADUs on top of each other.
Can I attach two ADUs to each other?
No, attaching two ADUs is not allowed in Santa Monica.
Can I convert the existing space to an ADU?
Yes, existing space can be converted into an ADU in multifamily properties in Santa Monica.
What is the maximum height for an ADU on a property with a multi-family building
Similar to a single-family house, on a property with a multifamily building in Santa Monica, the maximum height for an attached ADU is determined by the height limitations of the primary dwelling unit it's attached to. Likewise, a detached ADU cannot be over 2 stories or 24 feet in height.
What ADU types are allowed to build in Santa Monica?
Santa Monica allows several types of ADUs, including:
(A) Detached ADU: A standalone structure separate from the main home.
(B) Attached ADU: A newly built addition that is physically connected to the main house.
(C) Converted ADU: A non-livable space, such as a garage, shed, or storage area, converted into a living unit with a kitchen or kitchenette and a bathroom.
Converting existing structures into ADUs offers more flexibility since setback and height restrictions typically don’t apply. These structures can also be expanded for extra space. However, renovating older buildings may uncover hidden problems that could lead to higher costs.
ADU setbacks from the property lines and other buildings
What are the required setbacks for an ADU in Santa Monica?
ADUs are required to have side and rear setbacks of 4 feet from the lot line.
What is the minimum distance the ADU must have from the existing structures?
In Santa Monica, an ADU should be at least 6 feet from existing structures.
Are setbacks required when converting existing structures into ADU?
No setbacks are required for ADUs when converting existing structures in Santa Monica.
Can I build an ADU in the front yard of my house in Santa Monica?
Yes, you can build an attached ADU in the front yard of your house in Santa Monica, as long as it is located in the front or rear half of the parcel.
Design requirements for ADU
How many bedrooms can an ADU have?
In Santa Monica, an ADU should have at least one bedroom, as opposed to a studio unit.
Does an ADU need to have a kitchen?
Yes, an ADU is required to have a full kitchen that is separated from the primary dwelling and accessible exclusively to the occupants of the ADU.
Does an ADU require independent utility meters?
The city has not specified if ADUs require separate utility meters. It's best to contact the relevant authority for clarification.
What is the minimum ceiling height?
Typically, habitable structures like ADUs follow the California Building Code, which requires a minimum ceiling height 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 Santa Monica?
In Santa Monica, there is no parking requirement for an ADU.
Where can I have a parking space on my property?
In Santa Monica, parking for an ADU can be placed in the front half of the lot. Existing curb cuts can remain if they meet the necessary standards, provided parking is not on a "no backout" street. If off-street parking areas are removed for an ADU or JADU, there is no need to replace them.
How to get permits for your ADU
How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Santa Monica?
The permitting process usually takes around 3.5 to 4 months. After preparing the permit drawing set, you or your architect should submit it for a Plan Check. It’s advised to arrange a pre-plan check meeting with a city planner to review your application before submission.
Once submitted and all fees are paid, the city has 60 calendar days to confirm if the application is complete. If no response is given within that time, the permit is automatically approved. If corrections are needed, your designer must address them and resubmit the application. The application should show compliance with ADU requirements, and missing information alone won’t cause a denial. The estimated Plan Check fee for ADU projects in Santa Monica is $4,029.
Does Santa Monica require in-person submission of plans for an ADU?
No, Santa Monica uses "electronic plan review" for ADU submissions, eliminating the need for in-person plan submissions.
Does Santa Monica require coastal development permits?
Yes, Santa Monica requires coastal development permits, with the Coastal Commission retaining jurisdiction over certain areas despite the transfer of permitting authority to Los Angeles County through the certified Local Coastal Program.
When do you need a licensed professional to design an ADU in Santa Monica?
In Santa Monica, whether you require a licensed professional to design an ADU is determined by how complicated the project is.
How Much Value Does a Mother-in-Law Suite Add to Your Home?
How much does it cost to build an ADU in Santa Monica?
In Santa Monica, constructing an ADU costs approximately $380 per square foot. In addition to construction expenses, you should also plan for permits, architect fees, and engineering fees. For instance, the total cost for a 900-square-foot ADU is around $390,000, covering both soft and hard costs.
Is it profitable to build an ADU in Santa Monica?
The financial feasibility of building an ADU in Santa Monica depends on construction costs and the local real estate market. A 900-square-foot ADU in this area is valued at approximately $540,000. With a total construction cost of around $390,000, this results in a return on investment of about 37%.
Profitability can also be assessed by considering potential rental income or the benefits of having family members live on the same property.
Can you sell an ADU in Santa Monica?
Under California's AB 1033, municipalities have the authority to create rules for selling ADUs as condominiums alongside main homes, as long as they adhere to current ADU laws.
In Santa Monica, local regulations dictate how ADUs can be sold. Units constructed by approved nonprofit organizations are eligible for sale. They can also be sold via a tenancy-in-common agreement or if the city allows the ADU and the main residence to be sold separately as condominiums.
Are ADUs rent-controlled in Santa Monica?
No, ADUs in Santa Monica are not subject to rent control regulations. Rent control typically applies to older properties, those aged 15 years or more. As ADUs are newly constructed, they are exempt from such regulations. Therefore, legislation such as AB 1482, which pertains to rent control, does not impact ADUs in Santa Monica.
How do I get money to build an ADU in Santa Monica?
To obtain funding for building an ADU in Santa Monica, homeowners have various options. One such option is participating in the CalHFA ADU Grant Program, available in the city. This program provides grants of up to $40,000, depending on the homeowner's income, with a maximum income threshold of $158,000 for owner-occupied properties. These funds can be used to cover various initial expenses, including site preparation, ADU design, permits, and related costs. Additionally, homeowners have the flexibility to choose tenants for their ADU.