Prefab ADU in Milpitas | Backyard Home with LiveLarge

Milpitas ADU Standards

Prefab ADU in Milpitas

What is an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)?

An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is an independent residential unit located on the same lot as a primary home. ADUs provide 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 for durability, whereas tiny homes face more zoning challenges due to their mobility.

Planning to Build an ADU in Milpitas?

With the implementation of ADU regulations, Milpitas has experienced a rise in accessory dwelling unit construction. If you’re planning to build an ADU in Milpitas, LiveLarge is here to guide you through key development requirements for a smooth and successful project.

Types of ADUs

Detached: A newly constructed unit separate from the primary structure.
Attached: A newly constructed unit that must share at least one wall with the proposed or existing primary dwelling.
Conversion: A unit created by converting existing space within a single-family or multi-family residence.
Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU): A conversion of existing space, up to 500 square feet, entirely within a single-family residence.

Zoning and Lot Size

Detached pre-approved plans will qualify on parcels zoned for single-family or multi-family residential use and must meet minimum state streamlined ADU requirements in compliance with MMC Sec. XI-10-13.08.

Size and Floor Area

Attached ADU
- 0-1 Bedroom: Maximum area of 850 sq. ft.
- 2 Bedrooms: Maximum area of 1,000 sq. ft.
- Hillside Combining District: Maximum area of 1,200 sq. ft.
- Cannot exceed 50% of the primary residence’s floor area.
Detached ADU
- 0-1 Bedroom: Maximum area of 850 sq. ft.
- 2 Bedrooms: Maximum area of 1,000 sq. ft.
- Hillside Combining District: Maximum area of 1,200 sq. ft.
JADU (Junior ADU)
- Maximum area of 500 sq. ft.

Setbacks & Height

Attached ADU

Setbacks: 4-foot side/rear setbacks (except in the R1-H District).
Height: 25 feet.

Detached ADU

Setbacks: 4-foot side/rear setbacks; 6 feet from the primary residence; front setback per the underlying zoning district.
Height:
- 16 feet.
- A detached ADU may be up to 18 feet if located on a lot with an existing or proposed single-family or multi-family unit within ½ mile walking distance of a major transit stop or a high-quality transit corridor.
- A detached ADU may be up to 20 feet if necessary to align the roof pitch with the primary dwelling.

Conversion of Existing Area

Setbacks: Side and rear setbacks must comply with building and fire codes.

JADU (Junior ADU)

Setbacks: 4-foot side/rear setbacks.

Parking Requirements

Generally, one off-street parking space is required for each ADU. However, special conditions may eliminate this requirement, including:
- The ADU is located within ½ mile walking distance of public transit.
- The ADU is in an architecturally or historically significant district.
- On-street parking permits are required but not offered to ADU occupants.
- An established car-share vehicle stop is located within one block of the ADU.
If a parking space is required for an ADU, it may be located:
- Within any setback area.
- In a tandem configuration.
- On a mechanical lift.
Parking space dimensions:
- Unenclosed space: Minimum 8.5 feet wide x 18 feet long.
- Enclosed garage space: Minimum 10 feet wide x 20 feet long.

For more information, contact the Milpitas Planning Division at (408) 586-3279 or via email at planningdepartment@milpitas.gov.

Why Choose LiveLarge?

LiveLarge Prefab ADUs are designed to meet Milpitas’s detached ADU regulations, offering a hassle-free way to maximize property value. With pre-approved designs and expert guidance, we ensure a smooth approval process.

Let LiveLarge be your trusted partner for your ADU journey in Milpitas. With our expertise in design, construction, and pre-approved plans, we help ensure your project aligns with local standards and maximizes your property’s potential. Contact us today to start your ADU project!

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