Los Gatos ADU Standards Guide | Build with LiveLarge Home

Los Gatos ADU Standards: LiveLarge Home Guide

standards you need to know. Whether you’re looking to add a guest suite, rental unit, or extra living space, this overview will help you navigate the rules and regulations to ensure a successful project.

Zoning and Lot Size:

ADUs are permitted in R-1, R-D, R-M, R-1D, HR, and RC zones, but only on properties with a single-family home. They are not allowed on constrained lands or multi-residential properties.

Size and Bedrooms:

Maximum Size: 1,200 sq. ft. Maximum
Bedrooms: Two bedrooms.
Floor Area Ratio (FAR) Standards: ADUs are eligible for an additional 10% FAR. For example, on lots under 5,000 sq. ft., the FAR increases from 35% to 45% for ADUs.

Setback Requirements:

Attached ADUs: Must follow the same setback requirements as the primary dwelling.
Detached ADUs:
- In R-1, R-D, R-M, R-1D Zones: Front and side setbacks match the primary dwelling, with rear and side setbacks of at least 5 feet. ADUs cannot be located in front of the primary home.
- In HR and RC Zones: Setbacks follow the primary dwelling’s standards, and the ADU must be located within the least restrictive development area.

Lot Coverage:

In R-1, R-D, and R-M zones, the maximum lot coverage is 40% for roofed structures.

Conversion of Existing Space:

Existing buildings can be converted into ADUs, provided they meet fire safety regulations, even if setbacks are not met.

Minimum ADU Size:

Efficiency units as small as 150 sq. ft. are allowed, regardless of FAR or coverage standards.

Height Requirements:

Maximum Height: 15 feet, one story.
Attached ADUs: Allowed within existing space or above a two-story primary dwelling.
Detached ADUs: Allowed within existing space or above a one-story accessory building.

Parking Requirements:

General Parking: One parking space per ADU or per bedroom, unless exceptions apply.
Exemptions include:
- Proximity to public transit (within ½ mile).
- Location in a historic district.
- Conversion of existing space.
- If on-street parking permits are unavailable.
- If located within one block of a car-share vehicle.
- If the lot doesn’t have enough space for parking.
Replacement Parking: Can be provided in the front setback, on a driveway, through tandem parking, or using a mechanical lift.

Fire Sprinkler Requirements:

Fire sprinklers are required if the primary dwelling requires them. New construction may also require sprinklers based on site conditions. For details, contact the Santa Clara County Fire Department at (408) 378-4010.

Building an ADU? LiveLarge Home can help you navigate these standards and ensure your project goes smoothly. Whether you’re looking to add a guest suite, a rental, or more living space, our team can provide the expertise needed for a seamless process from design to construction. With pre-approved plans and prefab construction, we ensure your ADU meets local standards while maximizing your property’s potential. Contact us today to get started on enhancing your space with a well-planned ADU!

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