What are the requirements to build ADU in Alameda?
Constructing an ADU in Alameda allows you to expand your living space and create personalized areas like a home office or recreation room. To ensure a successful project, it's crucial to grasp Alameda's local regulations and carefully assess the financial aspects of construction. This guide offers detailed insights into Alameda's ADU regulations and important financial considerations, helping you plan and execute your project effectively.
Number of ADUs on a property
How many ADUs can you build in Alameda?
In Alameda, you can build one ADU, whether it's attached or detached, on a lot with an existing or proposed single-family dwelling.
How many ADUs does Alameda allow for multifamily properties?
Alameda allows several attached ADUs on multifamily properties, up to 25% of the existing units. Additionally, a maximum of 2 detached ADUs are allowed on a lot with an existing multifamily dwelling structure.
Setbacks for an ADU
What are the setbacks required for an ADU in Alameda?
The setbacks required for an ADU in Alameda include 4-foot setbacks for both side, rear and street side yard property lines.
What is the minimum distance the ADU must be from existing structures?
Alameda does not have a set minimum distance requirement for ADUs from existing structures. However, many cities typically require ADUs to be at least 6 feet away from existing buildings.
Are setbacks required if converting existing structures into ADU?
No, if you're converting an existing structure into an ADU or constructing one entirely within an existing structure, you're exempt from setback requirements.
Find out FREE if the zoning designation for your property allows you to build an ADU
The size of ADU for properties with a single-family home
How big can an attached ADU be in Alameda?
In Alameda, an attached ADU cannot surpass 1,200 square feet or 50% of the floor area of the primary dwelling, whichever is smaller. However, an 800 square foot ADU is allowed regardless of the size of the primary dwelling unit.
How big can a detached ADU be in Alameda?
For detached ADUs in Alameda, the same size limits apply as for attached ADUs. They cannot surpass 1,200 square feet or 50% of the floor area of the primary dwelling, whichever is smaller. However, an 800 square foot ADU is allowed regardless of the size of the primary dwelling unit.
Is there a minimum size of an ADU?
There is no minimum size requirement for an ADU in Alameda.
Can you convert existing space to an ADU?
Yes, converting existing space into an ADU is allowed. If the ADU is located within an existing garage, it can be expanded by up to 150 square feet beyond the current physical dimensions of the garage. However, any expansion should be limited to ingress and egress.
The size of ADU for properties with a multi-family home
How big can an attached ADU for a multifamily building be in Alameda?
In Alameda, attached ADUs for multifamily buildings cannot go beyond 1,200 square feet or 50% of the floor area of the primary dwelling, whichever is less. However, an 800 square foot ADU is allowed regardless of the size of the primary dwelling unit.
How big can a detached ADU for a multifamily building be in Alameda?
The size restrictions for detached ADUs in Alameda are the same as those for attached ADUs. They cannot be more than 1,200 square feet or 50% of the floor area of the primary dwelling, whichever is smaller. However, an 800 square foot ADU is allowed regardless of the size of the primary dwelling unit.
Can you stack detached ADUs on top of each other?
As of now, the regulations in Alameda do not specifically cover the possibility of stacking detached ADUs.
Can you attach two ADUs to each other?
Yes, in Alameda, you can attach 2 detached ADUs to each other on a lot with an existing multifamily dwelling structure, with a maximum limit of two detached ADUs allowed.
Can you convert existing space to an ADU?
Yes, converting existing space into an ADU within a multifamily property is allowed.
The height for ADU
What is the max height for an ADU on a property with a single family house?
The maximum height for an ADU on a property with a single-family house in Alameda is 16 feet, except when the ADU is built within the existing space of a legally constructed accessory structure.
What is the max height for an ADU on a property with a multifamily building?
On a property with a multifamily building in Alameda, the maximum height for an ADU is also 16 feet, similar to a single-family house. However, exceptions apply if the ADU is constructed within the existing space of a legally constructed accessory structure.
Can you build a 2-story ADU in Alameda?
The regulations do not provide specific guidance on this matter.
The parking requirements for ADU
What is the parking requirement for an ADU in Alameda?
In Alameda, no additional on-site parking is required for an ADU if it meets specific criteria, such as proximity to public transit, designated historic districts, existing primary dwellings, permit parking zones without ADU permits, or car share vehicle spots within one block.
Where can a parking space be located?
Parking spaces in many cities within California, if required, can usually be located in setbacks or existing driveways, often configured as tandem parking.
Design requirements for ADU
How many bedrooms can an ADU have in Alameda?
There is no limit on the number of bedrooms an ADU can have in Alameda. However, all bedrooms should follow standard building code requirements, including minimum size and minimum window egress requirements.
Does an ADU need a kitchen in Alameda?
Yes, however, installing more than one kitchen per dwelling unit without prior approval from the City of Alameda is not allowed.
Does an ADU require independent utility meters?
Yes, Alameda Municipal Power requires an independent electric meter for detached ADUs.
What is the minimum ceiling height?
Ceiling heights of at least 7 feet are required. However, in flood zones, detached ADUs are restricted to a maximum ceiling height of 8 feet.
Get the size of the ADU possible to build on your property after applying all these regulations
Permits for ADU
How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Alameda?
The duration to acquire an ADU permit in Alameda depends on the quality and precision of the submitted plans. If the initial submission meets building codes and requirements, the City's review can be completed within 30 days.
However, if revisions are needed, the review process may take longer. Nonetheless, the City is obligated to make a decision on an ADU application within 60 days of receiving a comprehensive application.
When do you need a licensed professional to design an ADU in Alameda?
You'll need a state-licensed professional to prepare and sign all documents, including revisions, before permits are issued.
Does Alameda require in-person submission of plans for an ADU?
No, Alameda operates an electronic plan review process.
Does Alameda require coastal development permits?
No, Alameda does not require a coastal development permit.
Economics of ADU
How much does it cost to build an ADU in Alameda?
Building an ADU in Alameda typically costs around $380 per square foot, including expenses for permits, architectural design, and engineering services. For example, constructing 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 Alameda?
To evaluate the financial viability of building an ADU in Alameda, it's essential to compare construction costs with local real estate market values. For instance, a 900-square-foot ADU could be valued at approximately $730,000. Given the construction cost of $390,000, this suggests a potential return on investment of around 88%.
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 Alameda?
The possibility of selling an ADU in Alameda depends on the implementation of statewide regulations, such as AB 1033. If enacted, selling an ADU might involve converting it into a condominium, likely requiring the establishment of a Homeowner Association (HOA) to manage the sale process.
Are ADUs rent controlled in Alameda?
ADUs in Alameda are not subject to rent control regulations. According to AB 1482, landlords can annually adjust rents, but this legislation only applies to properties aged 15 years or older.
How to get money to build an ADU in Alameda?
To finance ADU construction in Alameda, consider options like the CalHFA ADU Grant Program, which provides grants of up to $40,000. These funds can be used for various expenses, including architectural plans, permits, and site preparation, aligning with the state's affordable housing objectives.