What are the requirements to build ADU in Solano?
Building an ADU in Solano allows you to increase your living space and create customized areas like a home office or recreation room. To ensure the project's success, it's vital to comprehend Solano's specific local regulations and carefully assess the financial aspects of construction. This guide offers detailed insights into Solano's ADU regulations and essential financial considerations, helping you plan and execute your project efficiently.
Number of ADUs on a property
How many ADUs can you build in Solano?
In Solano, properties that have an existing or proposed single-family residence are limited to constructing just 1 ADU.
How many ADUs does Solano allow for multifamily properties?
Multifamily properties can have up to 2 detached ADUs. Also, non-livable spaces within existing multifamily buildings can be converted into at least 1 ADU, as long as these conversions do not go beyond 25% of the total units.
Setbacks for an ADU
What are the setbacks required for an ADU in Solano?
ADUs in Solano should have setbacks of 4 feet from the side and rear lot lines and comply with front yard setbacks per the zoning district. Regulations for corner or through lots are not specified.
What is the minimum distance the ADU must be from existing structures?
Solano hasn't specified a minimum distance for ADUs from existing buildings. However, many cities require a 6-foot separation.
Are setbacks required if converting existing structures into ADU?
No, setbacks are not required when converting existing structures into ADUs in Solano.
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 Solano?
Attached ADUs in Solano can be up to 1,200 square feet or 50% of the floor area, whichever is smaller.
How big can a detached ADU be in Solano?
Detached ADUs in Solano can measure up to 850 square feet, unless they feature more than one bedroom, in which case they can extend to 1,000 square feet in R-TC zones. Additionally, in R-R zones, detached ADUs can be as large as 1,500 square feet.
Is there a minimum size of an ADU?
The minimum size for an ADU in Solano is 380 square feet.
Can you convert existing space to an ADU?
Yes, according to state regulations, existing space 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 Solano?
In Solano, attached ADUs for multifamily buildings can reach a maximum size of 1,200 square feet or 50% of the floor area, whichever is smaller.
How big can a detached ADU for a multifamily building be in Solano?
In Solano, detached ADUs for multifamily buildings can vary in size depending on the zoning. In R-TC zones, they can reach a maximum of 850 square feet, except if they contain more than one bedroom, in which case they can be up to 1,000 square feet. Meanwhile, in R-R zones, detached ADUs can be as spacious as 1,500 square feet.
Can you stack detached ADUs on top of each other?
As of now, stacking detached ADUs on top of each other hasn't been addressed by Solano.
Can you attach two ADUs to each other?
No, attaching two ADUs together is not acceptable in Solano. Although regulations allow for up to two ADUs on a property with an existing multifamily building, they cannot be combined together according to current regulations.
Can you convert existing space to an ADU?
Yes, in Solano, you can 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?
On a property with a single-family house in Solano, the maximum height for an ADU is usually 16 feet.
What is the max height for an ADU on a property with a multifamily building?
On a property with a multifamily building in Solano, the maximum height for an ADU is typically 16 feet, consistent with the regulations for single-family properties.
Can you build a 2-story ADU in Solano?
Yes, it's possible to build a two-story ADU in Solano.
The parking requirements for ADU
What is the parking requirement for an ADU in Solano?
The parking requirement for an ADU in Solano requires 1 onsite parking space for each ADU.
Where can a parking space be located?
Parking for ADUs in Solano can be placed in either the front or side yard setback areas or set up through tandem parking.
Design requirements for ADU
How many bedrooms can an ADU have in Solano?
In Solano, there isn't a set maximum limit on the number of bedrooms for an ADU. However, given the maximum allowable size of 1,200 or 1,500 square feet, it usually accommodates at least one bedroom.
Does an ADU need a kitchen in Solano?
Yes, in Solano, an ADU usually requires just one kitchen, unless there's specific approval for a second one.
Does an ADU require independent utility meters?
The requirement for separate utility meters for ADUs in Solano is not explicitly stated. For further clarification on this matter, it's recommended to reach out to the relevant authority.
What is the minimum ceiling height?
In Solano, habitable spaces, including ADUs, are required to have a minimum ceiling height of 7 feet, according to the California Building Code.
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 Solano?
The timeline for securing an ADU permit in Solano County typically ranges from 1 to 6 months during the permitting phase. Overall, most ADU projects are completed within 12 to 18 months, although some may take up to 24 months or longer.
When do you need a licensed professional to design an ADU in Solano?
While you can construct an ADU independently, it's highly advised to involve a licensed architect, designer, or contractor, a common approach among most homeowners. Collaborating with a professional from the start can streamline the approval process, ensure efficient management, and optimize construction costs. Assessing their experience and compatibility is crucial, including reviewing their portfolio and seeking references.
Does Solano require in-person submission of plans for an ADU?
Solano County accepts permit applications and plans electronically, eliminating the need for in-person submission for ADUs.
Does Solano require coastal development permits?
No, Solano does not require coastal development permits.
Economics of ADU
How much does it cost to build an ADU in Solano?
Constructing an ADU in Solano County typically costs approximately $380 per square foot, which covers expenses such as permits, architectural design, and engineering services. For instance, building a 900-square-foot ADU would total around $390,000, encompassing both soft and hard costs.
Is it profitable to build an ADU in Solano?
Assessing the financial viability of constructing an ADU in Solano County involves comparing construction costs with local real estate market values. For example, a 900-square-foot ADU could potentially be valued at approximately $400,000. Given the construction cost of $390,000, this suggests a potential return on investment of about 4%.
Additionally, factors contributing to profitability may include potential rental income or the benefits of housing family members on the same property.
Can you sell an ADU in Solano?
In Solano, selling an ADU might be possible under state regulations like AB 1033. This law permits potential sales or conversions into condominiums, which could require the establishment of a Homeowner Association (HOA) for management purposes.
Are ADUs rent controlled in Solano?
In Solano, ADUs are not subject to rent control. Landlords can annually adjust ADU rents following regulations such as AB 1482, which usually apply to properties that are 15 years or older.
How to get money to build an ADU in Solano?
To finance ADU construction in Solano, individuals can explore options like the CalHFA’s ADU Grant Program, offering grants of up to $40,000. These funds can be used for various expenses such as architectural designs, permits, and site preparation, facilitating the development of ADUs as an affordable housing solution in the county.