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What are the requirements to build ADU in Folsom?

Constructing an ADU in Folsom enables you to expand your living space and generate rental income. To ensure the project's success, it's important to understand Folsom's local regulations and thoroughly assess the financial aspects of construction. This guide offers comprehensive insights into Folsom's ADU regulations and critical financial considerations, assisting you in effectively planning and executing your project.

Number of ADUs on a property

How many ADUs can you build in Folsom?

In Folsom, only one ADU is allowed on single-unit parcels.

How many ADUs does Folsom allow for multifamily properties?

Folsom allows at least 1 ADU on parcels with existing two-unit or multi-unit structures. Additionally, up to 25% of the original number of approved primary units within the development can have ADUs, and up to 2 detached ADUs are allowed.

Setbacks for an ADU

What are the setbacks required for an ADU in Folsom?

The setbacks required for an ADU in Folsom include at least 4 feet for side and rear yards. For front yard setback should be at least equal to the required front yard setback of the primary structure. However, for single-family attached ADUs, the front yard setback should be at least 20 feet.

On corner lots, ADUs in Folsom should also follow a minimum 4-foot setback from interior and street-side boundaries. Additionally, they should not protrude beyond the front facade of the primary dwelling.

What is the minimum distance the ADU must be from existing structures?

Folsom does not provide specific regulations on the minimum distance required between ADUs and existing structures. However, it's generally advisable for ADUs to maintain a distance of at least 6 feet from these structures.

Are setbacks required if converting existing structures into ADU?

No setbacks are required when converting existing structures into ADUs in Folsom.

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The size of ADU for properties with a single-family home

How big can an attached ADU be in Folsom?

Attached ADUs in Folsom can be a maximum of 850 square feet if they have up to one bedroom, or 1,000 square feet if they have two or more bedrooms. However, they cannot be larger than 50% of the total floor area of the existing primary dwelling or 800 square feet, whichever is greater.

How big can a detached ADU be in Folsom?

A detached ADU in Folsom can be up to 850 square feet if it has up to one bedroom, or 1,000 square feet if it has two or more bedrooms.

Is there a minimum size of an ADU?

Yes, in Folsom, the minimum size for an ADU is at least 150 square feet, which is equivalent to the minimum floor area of an efficiency unit.

Can you convert existing space to an ADU?

Yes, converting existing space into an ADU is allowed in single-family homes in Folsom.

The size of ADU for properties with a multi-family home

How big can an attached ADU for a multifamily building be in Folsom?

Attached ADUs in Folsom for multifamily buildings can measure up to 850 square feet if they contain up to one bedroom, or up to 1,000 square feet if they have two or more bedrooms. However, these dimensions cannot surpass 50% of the total floor area of the existing primary dwelling or 800 square feet, whichever is larger.

How big can a detached ADU for a multifamily building be in Folsom?

A detached ADU in Folsom for a multifamily building can measure up to 850 square feet if it has up to one bedroom, or up to 1,000 square feet if it has two or more bedrooms.

Can you stack detached ADUs on top of each other?

As of now, Folsom does not have specific guidelines concerning the stacking of detached ADUs on top of each other.

Can you attach two ADUs to each other?

No, in Folsom, attaching two ADUs together is not allowed. Regulations allow for up to two ADUs on a property with an existing multifamily building, but they can only be attached to the primary unit or an accessory structure.

Can you convert existing space to an ADU?

Yes, converting existing space into an ADU is allowed in multifamily properties in Folsom.

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 is capped at 16 feet, unless it involves converting existing space within a detached accessory structure.

What is the max height for an ADU on a property with a multifamily building?

The maximum height for an ADU on a property with a multifamily building is limited to sixteen feet or less above ground level.

Can you build a 2-story ADU in Folsom?

It depends. In Folsom, you can potentially build a 2-story ADU if you're converting existing space within a detached accessory structure that already has two stories.

The parking requirements for ADU

What is the parking requirement for an ADU in Folsom?

In Folsom, each ADU should have 1 off-street parking space, which is required in addition to parking for the main residence. Any additional paving of the front driveway should comply with local regulations, including those for parking on lawns and yards. Historic district properties may have additional requirements for front yard landscaping.

Where can a parking space be located?

In Folsom, parking for an ADU is limited to the paved driveway in the front yard. Tandem parking is allowed on a paved driveway, ensuring it is on-site and accessible via a paved pathway.

Design requirements for ADU

How many bedrooms can an ADU have in Folsom?

ADUs in Folsom should include at least 1 bedroom, differing from studio units in their design requirements.

Does an ADU need a kitchen in Folsom?

Yes. An ADU in Folsom requires an efficiency kitchen, which includes a sink with a drain, cooking facilities with appliances, counter space, and cabinets.

Does an ADU require independent utility meters?

No, Folsom does not require applicants to install new or independent utility connections directly between the ADU and the utility provider, unless required by the utility company. However, applicants have the choice to voluntarily install new or independent utility connections if they wish to do so.

What is the minimum ceiling height?

The minimum ceiling height for ADUs in Folsom is 7 feet, which complies with state regulations.

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Permits for ADU

How long does it take to get an ADU permit in Folsom?

The ADU permit in Folsom is typically issued within 60 days after receiving a complete application, unless the applicant requests a delay, which pauses the 60-day timeline for the duration of the delay.

When do you need a licensed professional to design an ADU in Folsom?

It's suggested to appoint a licensed professional, like an architect or engineer, for designing an ADU in Folsom, particularly for non-standard building methods.

Does Folsom require in-person submission of plans for an ADU?

No, Folsom does not require in-person submission of plans for an ADU. Plans are required to be submitted online through their permitting system, eTRAKiT.

Does Folsom require coastal development permits?

No, Folsom does not require coastal development permits.

Economics of ADU

How much does it cost to build an ADU in Folsom?

Constructing an ADU in Folsom typically costs around $380 per square foot, which includes expenses like permits, architectural design, and engineering services. For instance, a 900-square-foot ADU would cost about $390,000, covering both soft and hard costs.

Is it profitable to build an ADU in Folsom?

Evaluating the financial feasibility of constructing an ADU in Folsom involves comparing construction costs with local real estate market values. For example, a 900-square-foot ADU might be valued at around $500,000. With construction costs at $390,000, this suggests a potential return on investment of about 27%.

Additional factors that may influence profitability include potential rental income or the benefits of housing family members on the same property.

Can you sell an ADU in Folsom?

In Folsom, it is possible under state laws like AB 1033 to sell an ADU. This legislation allows for potential sales or conversions into condominiums, which might involve forming a Homeowner Association (HOA) for management and maintenance purposes.

Are ADUs rent controlled in Folsom?

Since Folsom does not impose rent control on ADUs, landlords have the flexibility to adjust rents annually, typically following regulations like AB 1482, which apply to buildings generally older than 15 years.

How to get money to build an ADU in Folsom?

You can secure funds for building an ADU in Folsom by exploring financing options like the CalHFA's ADU Grant Program, which provides grants up to $40,000. These funds cover costs such as architectural plans, permits, and site preparation, aimed at promoting ADU development as affordable housing in the city.

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