What are the requirements to build ADU in Rancho Cordova?
Building an ADU in Rancho Cordova enables you to expand your living space and offer affordable housing for adult children transitioning to independent living. To ensure the project's success, it's essential to understand Rancho Cordova's local regulations and thoroughly evaluate the financial aspects of construction. This guide provides detailed insights into Rancho Cordova's ADU regulations and critical financial considerations, aiding you in planning and executing your project effectively.
Number of ADUs on a property
How many ADUs can you build in Rancho Cordova?
In Rancho Cordova, you are limited to building only 1 ADU on properties where there is an existing or proposed single-family residence.
How many ADUs does Rancho Cordova allow for multifamily properties?
Rancho Cordova allows up to 2 detached ADUs on multifamily properties. Moreover, within existing multifamily structures, non-livable spaces can be converted into one or more ADUs, provided that these conversions do not go beyond 25% of the total units in the building.
Setbacks for an ADU
What are the setbacks required for an ADU in Rancho Cordova?
Setbacks for ADUs in Rancho Cordova require a distance of 4 feet from side and rear property lines. While front yard setbacks may apply, they should accommodate the construction of ADUs of at least 800 square feet without deterring their development.
What is the minimum distance the ADU must be from existing structures?
In Rancho Cordova, there is no specific minimum distance requirement for ADUs from existing structures. However, it is recommended to maintain a separation of about 6 feet between an ADU and existing buildings, similar to guidelines observed in other cities across California.
Are setbacks required if converting existing structures into ADU?
When converting an existing structure into an ADU in Rancho Cordova, no extra setbacks are necessary.
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 Rancho Cordova?
In Rancho Cordova, an attached ADU can take up to 50 percent of the primary residence's floor space. It can be a maximum of 850 square feet for a studio or one-bedroom unit, and up to 1,200 square feet for a unit with more than one bedroom.
How big can a detached ADU be in Rancho Cordova?
In Rancho Cordova, a detached ADU can reach a maximum size of 1,200 square feet.
Is there a minimum size of an ADU?
Yes, ADUs in Rancho Cordova should have a minimum size of 150 square feet, which is equivalent to an efficiency unit.
Can you convert existing space to an ADU?
Yes, existing space within a single-family dwelling in Rancho Cordova can be converted into an ADU.
The size of ADU for properties with a multi-family home
How big can an attached ADU for a multifamily building be in Rancho Cordova?
In Rancho Cordova, an attached ADU for a multifamily building can utilize up to 50% of the primary residence's floor area. It can reach a maximum size of 850 square feet for a studio or one-bedroom unit, and up to 1,200 square feet if the ADU includes more than one bedroom.
How big can a detached ADU for a multifamily building be in Rancho Cordova?
In Rancho Cordova, a detached ADU for a multifamily building can reach a maximum size of 1,200 square feet.
Can you stack detached ADUs on top of each other?
Currently, Rancho Cordova does not have explicit regulations allowing the stacking of detached ADUs on top of each other.
Can you attach two ADUs to each other?
No, in Rancho Cordova, you cannot connect two ADUs together. Although regulations permit up to two separate ADUs on a property with an existing multifamily building, joining them into a single structure is expressly forbidden.
Can you convert existing space to an ADU?
Yes, in Rancho Cordova, it is allowed to convert existing space within a multifamily dwelling into an ADU.
The height for ADU
What is the max height for an ADU on a property with a single family house?
ADUs on properties with single-family homes in Rancho Cordova are restricted to a height limit of 16 feet.
What is the max height for an ADU on a property with a multifamily building?
ADUs located on properties with multifamily buildings in Rancho Cordova are limited to a maximum height of 16 feet, aligning with the height restrictions applicable to single-family properties.
Can you build a 2-story ADU in Rancho Cordova?
Yes, in Rancho Cordova, constructing a two-story ADU is allowed.
The parking requirements for ADU
What is the parking requirement for an ADU in Rancho Cordova?
The parking rules for ADUs in Rancho Cordova specify that 1 parking space should be provided per unit or per bedroom, whichever is fewer. However, there are exceptions, such as ADUs located within half a mile of public transit, in architecturally or historically significant districts, part of the main residence or an accessory structure, where on-street parking permits aren't available to ADU residents, and if a car share vehicle is accessible within one block of the ADU.
Where can a parking space be located?
Parking spaces for ADUs in Rancho Cordova can be positioned in setback zones or organized in tandem parking setups, unless there are specific regional constraints related to topography, site conditions, or safety. Moreover, if a garage, carport, or covered parking structure is repurposed into an ADU or removed for this purpose, local guidelines do not need the replacement of off-street parking spaces for the main residence.
Design requirements for ADU
How many bedrooms can an ADU have in Rancho Cordova?
In Rancho Cordova, ADUs should include at least 1 bedroom, unlike studio units which do not have this requirement.
Does an ADU need a kitchen in Rancho Cordova?
Yes, in Rancho Cordova, ADUs should be furnished with full kitchens, distinct from the efficiency kitchens typically found in JADUs.
Does an ADU require independent utility meters?
There are no specific instructions from Rancho Cordova on whether ADUs need their own utility meters. It’s best to check with local authorities for detailed information.
What is the minimum ceiling height?
The California Building Code requires that the minimum ceiling height for an ADU is 7 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 Rancho Cordova?
ADU permit applications in Rancho Cordova, including building permits and plan reviews, typically follow state regulations, which require a maximum processing time of 60 days.
When do you need a licensed professional to design an ADU in Rancho Cordova?
It is recommended to hire a licensed architect or engineer for ADU designs in Rancho Cordova, particularly when using unique construction techniques.
Does Rancho Cordova require in-person submission of plans for an ADU?
No, plans for an ADU can be submitted online through Rancho Cordova's online portal, Rancho Cordova Online.
Does Rancho Cordova require coastal development permits?
No, Rancho Cordova does not require coastal development permits.
Economics of ADU
How much does it cost to build an ADU in Rancho Cordova?
Constructing an ADU in Rancho Cordova typically costs about $380 per square foot, which covers expenses such as permits, architectural design, and engineering services. For example, a 900-square-foot ADU would cost approximately $390,000, encompassing both soft and hard costs.
Is it profitable to build an ADU in Rancho Cordova?
Evaluating the financial feasibility of constructing an ADU in Rancho Cordova involves comparing construction costs with local real estate market values. For instance, a 900-square-foot ADU might be valued at around $800,000. With construction costs at $390,000, this suggests a potential return on investment of about 100%.
Additional factors influencing profitability could include potential rental income or the benefits of housing family members on the same property.
Can you sell an ADU in Rancho Cordova?
Yes, under state regulations like AB 1033, it is accepted to sell an ADU in Rancho Cordova. This legislation facilitates potential sales or conversions into condominiums, which may involve establishing a Homeowner Association (HOA) for property management and upkeep.
Are ADUs rent controlled in Rancho Cordova?
Rent control does not apply to ADUs in Rancho Cordova. These units are considered new constructions and are exempt from regulations such as AB 1482, which govern rent control for older buildings. Therefore, landlords have the flexibility to annually adjust rents for ADUs.
How to get money to build an ADU in Rancho Cordova?
To build an ADU in Rancho Cordova, consider exploring programs like the CalHFA's ADU Grant Program, which offers grants up to $40,000. These funds can cover expenses such as architectural plans, permits, and site preparation, promoting the development of ADUs as affordable housing options in the city.