Sunnyvale ADU Standards
Sunnyvale ADU Standards: Build Your Ideal Home Addition
If you’re considering building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in Sunnyvale, it’s important to understand the key development standards and requirements to ensure a smooth and successful project. This guide provides an overview of ADU options and what you need to know to navigate the process.
Types of ADUs:
- Standard Accessory Dwelling Units (SADUs)
- Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs)
Benefits of Building an ADU:
- Affordable Housing: Provide an affordable living space for friends, family, or renters.
- Aging Family Members: Create a comfortable, private space for aging relatives.
- Supplement Income: Rent out the ADU for additional revenue.
- Young Adults: Help younger family members stay close to home while maintaining independence.
Next Steps:
- Talk to Experts: Consult with your family, tax advisor, and/or legal counsel.
- Contact Planning Department: Reach out to planning@sunnyvale.ca.gov or (408) 730-7440 for questions on zoning, permits, and fees.
- Building and Utility Requirements: Contact Building Staff at (408) 730-7444 for questions about construction and utility needs.
Interior or Attached ADUs (JADUs/SADUs):
- Streamlined Process: For ADUs within existing or proposed homes (including basements, garages, or new additions).
- Non-streamlined Process: For additions or new construction beyond 800 sq. ft.
Key Requirements for Interior or Attached ADUs:
- Planning Approval: Not required for JADUs or interior SADUs within existing homes; required for larger additions.
- Zoning: Any lot with an existing single-family dwelling is eligible, including legal non-conforming uses.
- Size:
- JADU: Maximum of 500 sq. ft.
- SADU (attached): Maximum size varies; up to 850 sq. ft., or 1,000 sq. ft. if it has 2+ bedrooms.
- Setbacks: Generally 4 ft. from property lines for non-streamlined SADUs.
- Parking: Not required for either JADUs or SADUs within existing homes.
- Utilities: Utility connections and fees may apply for new SADUs or additions.
Detached ADUs (SADUs):
- Streamlined Process: For newly built or converted detached structures (up to 800 sq. ft.).
- Non-streamlined Process: For larger conversions or additions.
Key Requirements for Detached ADUs:
- Planning Approval: Not required for small SADUs (up to 800 sq. ft.).
- Zoning: Requires appropriate residential zoning (R0, R1, R2, etc.).
- Size: Up to 800 sq. ft. for new structures, with possible exceptions for larger units based on property size.
- Setbacks: 4 ft. from property lines or sufficient for fire safety.
- Parking: Not required; replacement of uncovered parking may be required.
- Owner-Occupancy: Not required for detached ADUs.
Building and Safety:
- Permits Required: All ADUs must obtain building permits. Contact the One-Stop Permit Center at (408) 730-7444 for more information.
- Fire Sprinklers: Not required for detached SADUs unless the primary dwelling has sprinklers or the addition is substantial.
- Utility Connections: New utility systems may require separate meters or connections, especially for newly built or expanded SADUs.
Additional Resources:
- Complete ADU Ordinance: Refer to Chapter 19.79 of Title 19 in the Sunnyvale Municipal Code for in-depth details on zoning and ADU construction.
- For More Information on Permits and Fees: Contact the Planning Division at (408) 730-7440 or visit the One-Stop Permit Center.
- Learn About Becoming a Landlord: Contact Project Sentinel at (408) 946-6582 or visit Housing.org.
Contact Information:
- Planning Division: (408) 730-7440 | planning@sunnyvale.ca.gov
- Building Division: (408) 730-7444
- LiveLarge Home: (669) 230-1579 | info@livelargetech.com
Let LiveLarge Home help you design, plan, and build your ADU to enhance your property’s value and functionality. We’re committed to making your ADU project a seamless and rewarding experience. Reach out to our team today to get started and maximize your property’s potential with a well-designed, efficient ADU!
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