San Carlos ADU Standards
Prefab ADU in San Carlos
What is an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit)?
An ADU is a self-contained residential unit on the same lot as a primary home, offering extra living space, rental income, or multi-generational housing. A Prefab ADU is a permanent, factory-built unit that follows local building codes, making it ideal for long-term use.
Tiny homes, often mistaken for prefab ADUs, are small mobile units on wheels. While both can serve as ADUs, prefab ADUs are fixed structures, whereas tiny homes face more zoning challenges due to mobility.
Planning to Build an ADU in San Carlos?
San Carlos has seen a rise in ADU construction due to updated regulations. If you’re considering building an ADU, LiveLarge can help you navigate the requirements for a smooth and successful project.
Types of ADUs
- Detached ADU – A separate structure built on the property.
- Attached ADU – An addition to the primary residence.
- Conversion ADU – Created by repurposing existing space (e.g., garage, basement).
- Junior ADU (JADU) – A smaller unit (up to 500 sq. ft.) located entirely within a single-family home.
Zoning and Lot Size
- Single-Family Homes: One ADU and one JADU allowed per lot.
- Multifamily Properties:
- Up to 25% of existing units can be converted into ADUs.
- Up to two detached ADUs permitted.
- ADUs must comply with California Building Standards Code.
Size and Floor Area
- Attached ADU
- Up to 800 sq. ft. – Exempt from zoning floor area limits.
- Over 800 sq. ft. – Cannot exceed 50% of the primary residence’s size and must adhere to zoning floor area limits.
- Detached ADU
- Up to 800 sq. ft. – Exempt from zoning floor area limits.
- Over 800 sq. ft. – Cannot exceed 50% of the primary residence’s size and must comply with zoning floor area limits.
- Junior ADU (JADU)
- Maximum size: 500 sq. ft.
Setbacks and Height
Attached ADU
- Setbacks: 4 feet (side/rear)
- Height: Up to 25 feet
Detached ADU
- Setbacks:
- 4 feet (side/rear)
- 6 feet from the primary residence
- Front setback: Based on zoning (can be reduced to 0 feet if no alternative location is available).
- Height: Up to 18 feet
Conversion ADU
- No setbacks required if converting an existing structure.
Junior ADU (JADU)
- Setbacks: 4 feet (side/rear)
Parking Requirements
- One parking space per ADU, except in the following cases:
- Within an existing structure (e.g., garage, basement, accessory building).
- Located within ½ mile of public transit.
- In a historic district.
- In an area where on-street parking permits are required but not available to ADU residents.
- Within one block of a designated car-share parking space.
- No replacement parking required if a garage, carport, or covered parking is converted into an ADU.
- JADUs do not require additional parking, except when converting a garage, in which case displaced parking must be replaced.
For more details, contact the San Carlos Planning Division at (650) 802-4384 or via email at building@cityofsancarlos.org.
Why Choose LiveLarge Prefab ADUs?
LiveLarge Prefab ADUs meet San Carlos’s ADU regulations, providing a hassle-free way to enhance your property value. With pre-approved designs and expert guidance, we ensure a smooth approval process.
Let LiveLarge be your ADU partner! Our expertise in design, construction, and compliance will help you maximize your property’s potential. Contact us today to start your ADU project!
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