Santa Clara ADU Checklist

ADU Building, Zoning, and Design Regulations in Santa Clara

Building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in Santa Clara can be an exciting way to add flexible living space to your property, whether for aging relatives, visiting family, or even generating rental income. However, navigating the building, zoning, and design regulations can feel daunting.

Number of Units

Santa Clara allows one attached or detached ADU per single-family residential lot. In some cases, an additional Junior ADU (JADU) within the existing primary residence is also permitted.

Zoning Regulations

Zoning compatibility is crucial for your ADU project. Fortunately, most residential zones in Santa Clara permit ADUs, although specific size, placement, and parking requirements may vary. Generally, ADUs must be at most 50% of the primary residence’s size and can be at most a maximum height of 17 feet.

Single-family Properties

Generally, you’re allowed one attached or detached ADU per single-family lot, with some cases permitting an additional Junior ADU (JADU) within the main residence.  The additional JADU can be no more than 500 square feet and must have an exterior entrance separate from the primary residence.

For single-family properties considering an ADU, it’s important to adhere to size and height restrictions and setback requirements that dictate the distance from the ADU to property lines. Single-family property owners should also review potential restrictions related to lot coverage, landscaping, and privacy considerations to ensure the new unit harmoniously integrates with the existing neighborhood aesthetic.

Duplex or Multi-Family Properties

Unlike single-family homes, the allowed number of ADUs on duplex and multi-family properties depends on the existing number of dwelling units. Generally, one ADU is permitted for duplexes, while multi-family buildings with three or more units may be eligible for additional ADUs.

Similar to single-family properties, ADUs on duplexes and multi-family buildings typically cannot exceed one story or 16 feet in height, and the maximum square footage may vary based on zoning and lot size. Parking requirements may be stricter for ADUs on duplexes and multi-family buildings, potentially exceeding the single-space requirement for single-family properties.

Santa Clara Requirements

Find out more here, Santa Clara ADU Department of Planning and Development

Setback Requirements

Navigating the world of home construction in Santa Clara, California, involves understanding specific setback requirements and regulations. Setback distances vary depending on several factors. The zoning district of your property plays a key role, with different minimums established for residential, commercial, and industrial zones. Additionally, the type of structure itself influences the required distance.

Generally, Santa Clara regulations mandate a minimum rear setback of 5 feet and minimum side setbacks of 3 feet. However, exceptions and variations might apply based on lot size, corner lots, and specific zoning district stipulations.

ADU Size Requirements

ADU Height Requirements

For detached ADUs, a maximum height of 16 feet generally applies, creating cozy one-story units that blend seamlessly with the neighborhood. Attached ADUs enjoy more flexibility, matching the height of the main dwelling and allowing for lofts or additional levels.

Fire Safety Regulations

Building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in Santa Clara, California, offers numerous benefits, but prioritizing occupant safety remains paramount. This involves a thorough understanding and adherence to fire safety regulations outlined by the City of Santa Clara. These regulations encompass various aspects of your ADU design and construction, mitigating fire risks and ensuring swift response in an emergency.

• Smoke Detectors: Every sleeping room and hallway outside each sleeping area must be equipped with interconnected smoke detectors. These detectors should be hardwired with battery backup for continuous operation, even during power outages.
• Escape Routes: All ADUs must have at least two escape routes from each habitable room. These exits should lead directly to the outdoors or an open space within the ADU with direct outdoor access.
• Fire Sprinklers: While not always mandatory, installing fire sprinklers significantly enhances ADU safety. Depending on the size and construction type of your ADU, the City of Santa Clara may require sprinkler installation.
• Fire-Resistant Materials: Utilizing fire-resistant materials for walls, ceilings, and floors in your ADU is crucial. This significantly slows the spread of flames, providing valuable evacuation time for occupants.
• Gas Appliances: If your ADU includes gas appliances like stoves or water heaters, ensure their proper installation and venting to the exterior. Additionally, consider installing easily accessible gas shutoff valves for emergencies.

Room Specifications

Parking & Exterior Requirements

Adding an ADU to your Santa Clara property requires balancing exciting design possibilities with essential regulations. Detached ADUs usually need one off-street space (driveways, carports, or on-street permits work), while attached units may share existing spaces, and JADUs are exempt. Choose materials like brick, stucco, or wood siding that complement your home and neighborhood, respect setbacks, and prioritize energy-efficient windows and doors.

Owner-Occupancy

Santa Clara offers a unique owner-occupancy break for ADUs: until at least January 1, 2025, you don’t need to live on the property to build or rent out most ADU types. This opens doors for income potential and flexible living arrangements. However, check with the City about the attached JADUs, as they may still have local occupancy requirements.

Rental Requirements

In Santa Clara, renting your ADU offers exciting possibilities, but remember to navigate specific regulations. Minimum rental periods of 30 days apply, making them ideal for long-term tenants rather than short-term rentals. Fair housing laws must also be adhered to when advertising and selecting tenants, ensuring equal opportunity and avoiding discrimination.

Santa Clara Permits To Acquire and Fees

Adding an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) to your Santa Clara property opens doors to exciting possibilities. Still, before the hammer meets the nail, there’s a crucial step: acquiring the necessary permits. Understanding the types and fees involved empowers you to efficiently navigate the process and avoid delays in bringing your ADU dream to life. Consult the City of Santa Clara Planning Division for more information.

Permit Issuance

This initial step establishes your project’s legitimacy and initiates the official permitting process. You’ll submit project plans, obtain zoning approvals, and pay a non-refundable application fee ranging from $125 to $500, depending on the scope of your work.

Expect a processing time of 4 to 6 weeks on average. Consider attending project site pre-application meetings to ensure all necessary documentation is prepared beforehand. This significantly expedites the process, with over half of all pre-application meetings resulting in a permit being issued within 60 days.

Plan Review

Experienced engineers and inspectors meticulously scrutinize your submitted plans to ensure adherence to building codes and safety regulations. This thorough review ensures structural integrity, fire protection, and compliance with environmental standards.

Plan review fees are calculated based on the total estimated construction cost. Expect to pay around 1% to 2% of the estimated cost, with a minimum fee of $250. Once approved, you can obtain your building permit.

Water and Sewer Connection

Accessing city water and sewer infrastructure requires separate permits from the Santa Clara County Public Works Department. These permits ensure proper connection and compliance with sanitation regulations.

Connection fees vary depending on meter size and service type. Residential water meter connection fees, for example, range from $1,500 to $3,000, while sewer connection fees start around $2,500. Additional fees may apply for trenching, inspection, and meter installation.

Electrical and Plumbing Permit

Separate permits are required for any electrical or plumbing work within your project. These permits guarantee safe and code-compliant installations by licensed professionals. Both electrical and plumbing permit fees are based on the project’s scope and complexity.

Expect to pay a minimum of $50 to $100 for each permit, with additional inspections and extensive work charges. Make sure to obtain these permits before any electrical or plumbing work begins.

Others: Geological Hazard Review and Clearance, Tree Removal Permit, and Fire Variance.

This specialized permit evaluates potential earthquake and landslide risks. Fees are project-specific, generally starting at $500. Removing trees within city limits requires a permit to protect the urban canopy. Permit fees start at $25 and increase based on tree size and species. Any deviation from fire safety codes necessitates a variance permit. Fees vary depending on the nature of the variance and potential risks involved.

In Santa Clara, ensuring safety from geological hazards is vital. A Geological Hazard Review and Clearance assesses risks like landslides or earthquakes, while the Tree Removal Permit preserves the urban forest. The Fire Variance permit accommodates unique design elements or site-specific challenges.

Property Designations for Santa Clara ADU

Embarking on an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) project in Santa Clara can be an exciting yet complex endeavor. While zoning regulations and permitting processes demand attention, understanding certain crucial property designations is equally important. These designations, namely flood zones, geohazard zones, and easements, play a vital role in ensuring the safety, feasibility, and success of your ADU.

• Flood Zones: Building within high-risk zones, depicted in darker shades on FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center, might require specific construction techniques like elevated foundations or floodproofing or even be entirely prohibited.
• Geohazard Zones: Building an ADU in these areas, typically marked on maps, may require extra design considerations, such as making it resistant to earthquakes or getting soil reports.
• Easements: Easements, often unseen yet omnipresent legal agreements, limit your property rights in specific areas. Building an ADU near or within an easement might require permission from the easement holder and potentially impact your ADU’s design options.

Build Your ADU and Maximize Your Property’s Potential!

Esperto Builders guides you through each step, from navigating permits to crafting your dream space. With our expertise, your ADU will meet all regulations and maximize your property’s value and functionality. Contact Esperto Builders today and take the first step toward expanding your real estate portfolio!

FAQs