Collection of FAQs
State law allows homeowners the right to convert many types of existing space into ADUs. The state law covers garages, other accessory buildings (like art studios), or even part of the main house, including attics and basements. To qualify, your …
Can I convert an existing garage or other structure on my property into an ADU? Read more »
ADUs can range from 150 to up to 1,200 square feet except for lots zoned Agricultural Exclusive (AE) that are 40 acres or more where an ADU unrestricted in size may be allowed in addition to a main residence. You …
How large can ADUs/JADUs be? What are the required setbacks? Read more »
Homeowners can build both an ADU and JADU on their property, and multifamily property owners can include two or more ADUs.
ADUs and JADUs are allowed in any zone that allows single family or multifamily dwelling residential use and includes a proposed or existing dwelling.
In almost all cases, the answer is yes! The best way to find out is to use the County’s Web GIS Tool to find out more information about your parcel. This online mapping tool provided by the county allows you …
Getting started involves clarifying your goals, learning what you can build on your property, and estimating your project budget. We have a variety of tools to help you with these initial steps – see more on our Getting Started + …
A traditionally constructed site-built ADU is designed and built specifically to your preferences and property. This option allows for a lot of customization and smaller changes to be made throughout the construction process. A manufactured or prefab ADU is built …
What’s the difference between a site-built and a manufactured ADU? Read more »
An attached ADU can be new or converted from an interior space as long as it shares at least one wall with the primary house. A detached ADU is a freestanding structure that can be new or converted from an …
What’s the difference between an attached and a detached ADU? Read more »
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) come in many shapes and sizes but are always a self-contained home that is smaller than the main house and legally part of the same property. They must have a kitchen, bathroom, and place to sleep, …
What is the difference between an ADU and a JADU? Read more »
Tiny Homes (THs) are smaller units up to 400 square feet including at least 120 square feet of first floor interior living space. Movable tiny homes (MTHs) have the same size requirements but are built on a chassis and meet …
