Collection of FAQs
Yes! The California Housing Finance Agency (CalHFA) launched an ADU Grant Program which may reimburse pre-development and non-recurring closing costs. To learn more about the program including who is eligible, please visit the CalHFA website.
The county’s ADU ordinance prohibits the use of ADUs and JADUs as short term rentals (rented for less than thirty days). This discourages the listing of ADUs on popular websites like Airbnb and VRBO and promotes them as a means …
Can an ADU or JADU be used as a short term rental? Read more »
Renting an ADU comes with many responsibilities, including understanding local and state housing laws, executing a lease, finding and managing a tenant, and maintaining a rental property. It’s important to understand the laws as they may affect things like future …
What do I need to know about becoming a landlord? Read more »
Traditional construction will take 6-12 months, though this will vary depending on the specifics of the project. Stages of construction include: Site preparation: 1-2 months Foundation: 1 month Walls, roof, doors: 1-2 months Plumbing & electrical: 1-2 months Insulation & …
Construction costs for your second unit will vary significantly depending on personal preferences, site conditions, location, and many other factors. Size: Despite what many think, smaller ADUs may cost almost the same as larger ones because construction costs are not …
If you are not using a design/build firm, you will need to find a builder or contractor to take over for the construction phase of your ADU. First, you’ll solicit bids. See our Guidebook for more details on what you …
The Safe Homes Program was established by the county to legalize ADUs that were built without first obtaining a building permit. County staff developed a Safe Home Program packet which outlines the programs in greater detail and the necessary steps …
An ADU in the Coastal Zone will follow a bit of a different process and may require a Special Permit, as well as notifying neighbors. To determine if your ADU falls within the Coastal Zone, visit Humboldt County’s Web GIS …
Adding parking is much less of a concern than it used to be. If your property does not meet any of the exceptions outlined below, you will need to add one spot for the ADU, and it can be tandem …
New or separate utility connections may be required for ADUs, but not JADUs. Use the Web GIS Tool or call the Planning and Building Department to find out who provides water and sewer service to your property if you aren’t …
Are there other utility issues I should consider? Read more »
