Stacking 'em High in Cali: A Not-So-Serious Guide to ADUs
Thinking of turning your California backyard into a mini-apartment empire? Maybe you've got that in-law situation simmering and need a separate space to, you know, ensure family harmony (or at least maintain some semblance of sanity). Well, my friend, the answer to your prayers might be an Accessory Dwelling Unit, also known as an ADU. But before you go all HGTV on us and turn your garage into a shiplap-lined studio, let's get the lowdown on how many ADUs you can legally stack on your property.
The Trifecta of Tiny Homes: How Many ADUs Can You Build?
Hold onto your hammers, folks, because California's recent laws are all about maximizing that square footage. Get ready for some bold numbers:
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The Triple Threat: As of AB 68 (catchy name, right?), you can potentially squeeze in three whole units on a single-family lot. That's right, we're talking a main house, a detached ADU, and a brand new invention called a Junior ADU (JADU) – basically a mini-me version of a regular ADU. Boom! Instant triplex.
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But Wait, There's More!: For multi-family properties, things get a little more complex, but you're still looking good. Up to two new ADUs (attached or detached) are allowed, and you can also convert existing non-living space in the building into additional units, with a maximum of 25% of the existing dwelling units.
Hold Your Horses (or Tiny Homes): A Reality Check
Now, before you start measuring your patio furniture and sketching out floorplans, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Local Laws Can Be Loopy: California sets the baseline, but cities and counties can have their own ADU regulations. So, do your research – zoning codes, permits, setback requirements – the whole bureaucratic shebang.
- Size Matters (But Not That Much): There are limits on ADU square footage, but they're pretty generous. Detached ADUs can be up to 800 square feet, with exceptions for certain situations.
- Parking Might Be a Pain: Cities can have their own parking requirements for ADUs, so be prepared to get creative – carpool with your tenants, install bike racks, or channel your inner yogi and promote a car-free lifestyle (okay, maybe not that last one).
The ADU Adventure: A Hilarious Journey (Disclaimer: Not Really)
Building an ADU can be a rewarding experience (hopefully with minimal arguments with neighbors and building inspectors). But let's be honest, there will be challenges. Imagine the negotiations with your significant other over paint colors for the JADU. Or the epic battle with a rogue squirrel who's decided the new unit is his personal vacation condo. Hey, at least it'll make for some entertaining stories down the road.
So, there you have it, folks. The not-so-serious guide to ADUs in California. With a little planning, some perseverance, and maybe a good sense of humor, you can be well on your way to becoming a mini-mogul of micro-housing. Now get out there and ADU-it yourself!
