Moraga ADU Standards
Prefab ADU in Moraga
What is an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit)?
An ADU is an independent residential unit 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 ADUs, prefab ADUs are stationary and built to last, while tiny homes face more zoning challenges due to their mobility.
Planning to Build an ADU in Moraga?
With the implementation of ADU regulations, Moraga has seen a rise in accessory dwelling unit construction. If you’re planning to build an ADU in Moraga, LiveLarge is here to guide you through key development requirements for a smooth and successful project.
Types of ADUs:
- Detached: New construction built separately from the primary structure.
- Attached: New construction attached to the primary structure.
- Conversion: A conversion of existing space within a primary residence or a detached accessory structure.
- 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:
On single-family lots, one detached ADU (up to 800 sq. ft.) and one JADU (up to 500 sq. ft., within the existing residence) are permitted, with the owner required to occupy either the primary unit or the JADU. On multifamily lots, up to two detached ADUs are allowed, in addition to the conversion of non-livable spaces—such as storage rooms, boiler rooms, attics, basements, and garages—into ADUs, with a maximum of 25% of existing units eligible for conversion. All ADUs must comply with setback, height, and zoning requirements to ensure seamless integration with the existing property.
Size and Floor Area:
Attached ADU:
0-1 Bedroom: Maximum area of 850 sq. ft.
2 Bedrooms: Maximum area of 1,000 sq. ft.
Detached ADU:
0-1 Bedroom: Maximum area of 850 sq. ft.
2 Bedrooms: Maximum area of 1,000 sq. ft.
JADU (Junior ADU):
Maximum area of 500 sq. ft.
Setbacks and Height:
- Attached ADU:
- Setbacks: 4-foot side/rear setbacks.
- Height: 16 ft.
- Detached ADU:
- Setbacks: 4-foot side/rear setbacks; 5-foot from primary residence; front setback (per underlying zone).
- Height: 16 ft.
- Conversion of Existing Area:
- Setbacks: No setback is required for the conversion of an existing living area or accessory structure, or a structure constructed in the same location and to the same dimensions as an existing structure that is converted to an ADU.
- JADU (Junior ADU):
- Setbacks: 4-foot side/rear setbacks.
Parking Requirements
- In addition to parking for the primary home, one off-street parking space (9–17 feet by 19 feet) is required for an attached or detached ADU. This space must be next to the primary home’s parking and cannot have a separate driveway or expanded curb cut unless approved by the Moraga Municipal Code.
- Key Rules:
- No guest parking is required for ADUs.
- The space must have a permeable surface unless an existing paved area is used.
- It must be outside required setback areas unless the Planning Director approves an exception, in which case it may be tandem parking or require screening with 36-inch-high vegetation.
- If a garage, carport, or covered parking is removed for an ADU, replacement parking must be provided anywhere on the lot (covered, uncovered, tandem, or using a lift).
- No Parking Required If:
- The ADU is within ½ mile of public transit.
- The ADU is in a historic district.
- On-street parking permits are required but not available to ADU residents.
- A car-share service is within one block.
Fully contained ADUs do not require parking under this regulation.
For more information, contact the Moraga Planning Division at (925) 888-7040 or via email at planning@moraga.ca.us.
Why Choose LiveLarge Prefab ADUs?
LiveLarge Prefab ADUs are designed to meet Moraga’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 Moraga. With our expertise in design, construction, and pre-approved plans, we 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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