Half Moon Bay ADU Standards
Prefab ADU in Half Moon Bay
What is an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)?
An ADU is an independent residential unit located on the same lot as a primary home, providing additional living space, rental opportunities, or multi-generational housing. A prefab ADU is a permanent, factory-built backyard home that meets local zoning and building codes, making it ideal for long-term living.
Tiny homes, often confused with prefab ADUs, are small, mobile units built on wheels. While both can be considered ADUs, prefab ADUs are stationary and built to last, whereas tiny homes face more zoning challenges due to their mobility.
Planning to Build an ADU in Half Moon Bay?
With the implementation of ADU regulations, Half Moon Bay has seen a rise in accessory dwelling unit construction. If you’re considering building an ADU, LiveLarge is here to guide you through the key development requirements for a smooth and successful project.
Types of ADUs
- Detached: A newly built structure separate from the primary home.
- Attached: A newly constructed addition attached to the primary home.
- Conversion: The conversion of an existing space within a primary residence or a detached accessory structure.
- Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU): A converted space, up to 500 square feet, located entirely within a single-family residence.
Zoning and Lot Size
- The ADU must be located in one of the following zoning districts:
- R-1, R-2, R-3, C-D, C-R, C-VS, or C-G
- A PUD zoning district where detached accessory dwelling units are permitted under a PUD plan or specific plan
- A substantially undeveloped PUD zoning district
Size and Floor Area
- Attached ADU
- 0-1 Bedroom: Maximum 850 sq. ft.
- 2 Bedrooms: Maximum 1,000 sq. ft.
- Detached ADU
- 0-1 Bedroom: Maximum 850 sq. ft.
- 2 Bedrooms: Maximum 1,000 sq. ft.
- Junior ADU (JADU)
- Maximum 500 sq. ft.
Setbacks and Height
Attached ADU
- Setbacks: 4-foot side and rear setbacks.
- Height: 16 feet.
Detached ADU
- Setbacks:
- 4-foot side and rear setbacks
- 6 feet from the primary residence
- 20-foot front setback
- Height: 16 feet
Junior ADU (JADU)
- Setbacks: 4-foot side and rear setbacks.
Parking Requirements
A minimum of one off-street parking space is required for ADUs in specific neighborhood areas (Miramar, Casa del Mar, Alsace Lorraine, and Arleta Park). Outside these areas, no parking is required.
Exceptions:
No parking is required if:
- The ADU is within ½ mile of public transit.
- The ADU is part of a historic resource where adding parking would cause harm.
- The ADU is a conversion of an existing space (e.g., garage, carport).
- On-street parking permits are required but not available to ADU residents.
- A car share stop is located within one block.
If a garage, carport, or covered parking is converted into an ADU, replacement parking may be tandem, within setbacks, or use mechanical lifts if compliant with local regulations.
For more information, contact the Half Moon Bay Planning Division at (650) 726-8284 or via email at owilson@hmbcity.com.
Why Choose LiveLarge Prefab ADUs?
LiveLarge Prefab ADUs are designed to meet Half Moon Bay’s detached ADU regulations, offering a hassle-free way to maximize your property value. With pre-approved designs and expert guidance, we streamline the approval process.
Let LiveLarge be your trusted partner in your ADU journey. Our team specializes in design, construction, and compliance to ensure your project aligns with local regulations while enhancing your property’s potential. Contact us today to start your ADU project!
Get A Free Site Report
Get A Free Site Report
