Let’s start with what is an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)? In the past, these have been known by a few names: granny units, in-law quarters, backyard cottages, secondary dwellings, or casitas. What is important to know is that ADUs are an “…independent living space created on properties which allows residential land use, developed, or proposed for development, with a primary residence. ADUs may be created through new construction or through converting existing permitted interior space, garage or a carport, into an ADU*.”

What are the Top 6 Reasons to Consider an ADU in California?

• ADUs provides much needed housing to alleviate the critical housing shortage in California.
• ADUs can be affordable as they do not require paying for land, major new infrastructure, structured parking, or elevators.
• ADUs units are allowed to connect to the sewer, power, and water of the main house. This is a major cost savings and advantage to homeowners or developers.
• The rules, and the approval process have been streamlined, making the planning and development consent stages much faster.
• California state law requires municipalities to approve ADU projects by right if they meet the minimum objective requirements such as height, area and building setbacks
• Public hearings and neighborhood agreements are not required for ADU approval.

Top 3 Benefits for Architects, Homeowners and Developers

• ADUs provide flexibility and privacy housing for the extended family members. For example, allowing seniors to age in place as they require more care.
• ADU's allow rental income for property owners.
• The CalHFA ADU Grant Program can provide up to $40,000 in assistance to reimburse homeowners for pre-development costs.

Process Time Cut Nearly in Half

Previously, the Planning and Building departments approval times used to take 8 months or longer, depending on whether there was neighborhood opposition to your project. Now, with the new ADU laws, the approval process only takes around 3 to 4 months. 

Greenwood and Moore, Inc. (G&M) has extensive experience navigating the ADU design and approval process. Look to us to provide you with the following design and engineering services:

• Design Services
• Land Surveying
• Civil Engineering
• Structural Design Services
• Permitting
  

G&M has more than 25 years' experience, providing the services required to navigate the many ADU stages, thereby saving you needless frustration, expense, and delays. We look forward to hearing from you so that we can focus on making your vision a reality!

Resources & Additional Guidance:

• Weighing Your Options - SB9 vs. ADUs?
• Alameda County ADU
• California Housing and Community Development ADU handbook
• ADU Best Practices Guidebook
• The ABCs of ADUs (PDF)
• CalHFA’s ADU Grant Program
• CalHome Program
• Local Early Action Planning (LEAP) Grants

Footnotes/resources
* Alameda Country ADU