Can You Build an ADU

Adding an accessory dwelling unit ADU to your property is a great way to increase living space, generate rental income or provide a private home for family members but before you start planning, the big question is can you build an ADU on your property if you're a homeowner in Stockton or San Joaquin County, the answer is often yes but there are some key factors you need to consider first here's how to find out if an ADU is possible for your home.

Most single-family and multi family residential properties are eligible for an ADU but your property must meet certain zoning and size requirements.

General Guidelines for ADUs:

• Your Property must be zoned for residential use (Single-Family or Multi-Family).
• Detached ADUs ( standalone units) must be at least 10 feet from the main home and 5 feet from property lines.*
• Attached ADUs (connected to your home) must share a least 1 wall with the existing structure.
• Lot size matters- while there is no strict minimum lot size, space constraints can impact design.

If you're unsure about your property zoning, Home Heart Construction can help you check with the city and guide you through the process.

The size of your ADU depends on your property and local regulations.

• Detached ADUs: Up to 1,200 sq.ft. depending on lot size.
• Attached ADUs: Can be up to50% of your existing home's size, with max of 1,200 sq.ft.
• Junior ADUs(JADUs): Smaller units (under 500 sq.ft.) created from existing space inside your home.

Pro Tip: If you're looking to build a rental unit, keep in mind that ADUs cannot be sold separate from the main house but can be rented out for additional income.

All ADUs require permits, but recent California laws have made the approval process faster and easier to stay in courage is ADU development. Meaning you won't have to go through complex rezoning or variance request in most cases.

Parking: In most cases you do not need to provide additional parking for your ADU if your property meet certain conditions such as being within 1/2 mile of public transit located in a designated historical district or part of an existing primary residence conversion however, for detached ADUs in specific areas parking requirements may still apply. We can help determine your exact requirements based on your location.

Utilities Connections: ADUs can be connected to the main homes, water, sewer, and electrical systems, which is often the most cost-effective approach in some cases homeowners up to separate utility meters, which may be required. If the ADU will be rented out separately your specific requirements will depend on your property, layout and city regulations.

                                                       Title 24 energy compliance

 in California title 24 regulations, ensure that all new residential construction, including 80 use needs energy efficiency, standards here's what that means for your ADU:

• High-efficiency windows and insulation your ADU must me energy efficiency, standards for windows walls, and roofs to minimize heat loss and improve energy.
• Solar panel requirements- newly built ADUs may require solar panels, depending on size and structure. However smaller ADUs (under 750 sq.ft.) are often exempt from this requirement.
• Energy efficient, lighting and appliances- all new ADUs must use high-efficiency LED lighting and meet energy standards for water, heaters, HVAC systems and ventilation.
• Building envelope and air sealing- ADUs must be properly insulated and sealed to improve energy efficiency, and meet state standards for air, quality and energy conservation. 

                                                       Why Does Title 24 Matter?

Meeting title 24 standards helps homeowners reduce energy cost improve indoor comfort and ensure compliance with California's sustainability goals homework construction ensures that all ADU we build comply with the latest title 24 requirements so you don't have to worry about unexpected compliance issues.

* Information provided on this page is for general guidance only and his based on current regulations in Stockton in San Joaquin County at the time of riding local zoning laws building codes and permit requirements are subject to change in specific property conditions may affect eligibility home. Her construction is not responsible for changes and regulations or individual project requirements. We strongly recommend consulting with your local planning department or contacting our team for more up-to-date information before starting your ADU project.