San Jose ADU Design

With the ever-increasing demand for accessory dwelling units for different domestic uses, professional San Jose ADU design solutions help you plan your ADU construction project effectively.

Factors to Consider Before ADU Design in San Jose

If you are considering building an ADU in San Jose, here are the factors that will help you determine what considerations are important for your San Jose ADU design and construction:

Your reason for building an ADU. Is it a rental property, or add more space for your family?
The ADU parking requirements. All ADUs in San Jose are subject to the parking requirements of California. However, some San Jose ADU designs may qualify for exemptions from the parking requirements.
The municipal rules for ADUs in San Jose. Your lot must be eligible to build on. Note that each type of accessory dwelling, such as attached or detached, comes with size and height limitations.

Requirements of San Jose ADU Design

Your proposed San Jose ADU design must adhere to specific regulations to be approved by the Build Department.

Zoning of the property. Is your property zoned R-1, R-2, R-M, or PD? If yes, the allowed ADUs are single-family property and duplex property.
Height restrictions. In a single-family home, single-story detached ADUs cannot go beyond a height of 18 feet. Two-story ADUs cannot exceed 24 feet. If the property has a JADU already, the maximum height is 16 feet.
If your property is in flood zones A, AE, AH, or AO, your plans need to adhere to the flood zone design requirements.
Geohazards- If your property lies within a geohazard or landslide zone, a Geologic Hazard Clearance is needed.
If the property is in a Wildland-Urban Interface Zone (WUI), all construction must adhere to the requirements in the WUI zone.
If there is a non-buildable area in the location of the proposed ADU, you need to submit a complete and accurate ADU package and supporting documents.
If there is a code enforcement or violation case associated with the location of the proposed ADU, you must first address code compliance before creating ADU designs and plans.

The San Jose Pre-Approved ADU Plan Program

The San Jose Pre-Approved ADU Plan Program gives you the perfect opportunity to get your ADU designed for a fraction of the time it would typically take. The program is a government-led initiative by the city of San Jose to offer a simplified permitting process for a range of specified ADU designs.

The city pre-approves specific ADU plans and designs, and you only need to wait all the time it usually takes to develop designs if you choose one of the already pre-approved plans. You will also enjoy an expedited permitting process.

Once you have ascertained your eligibility for the ADU design, you need to submit a site-specific application that provides information about the following:

1	The project site plan- the scope of work, parcel boundaries, property dimensions, street name, and location of utilities.
2	Architectural plans, sections, and details.
3	The location and dimensions of the primary dwelling unit and ADU, including the distance of the proposed ADU from the main house and the property boundaries.
4	Structural calculations.
5	Structural information, plans, and details.
6	Title 24 energy documents.
7	Foundation information.

Get Professional San Jose ADU Design Solutions

Looking for an expert San Jose ADU designing solution? Let us help you plan and create the perfect ADU construction project to meet your needs. Contact us today!

FAQs

What is the Maximum Size of an ADU Design in San Jose?

Attached ADUs cannot exceed 50% of the primary residence square footage or 1000 square feet. Detached ADUs on lots larger than 9000 square feet can be at most 1200 square feet.

Can I simultaneously build a new house and design an ADU?

Yes, as long as you adhere to San Jose’s building regulations and zoning requirements, you can build a new house and design an ADU simultaneously. However, it requires proper planning and coordination with the city’s building department.

Does my property qualify for a San Jose ADU design?

The ADU Universal Checklist will answer all your questions regarding the restrictions and requirements, how to get a building permit and plan review, and whether your lot qualifies for ADU design and construction.

How long will it take to get My ADU Design Approved?

The time it takes to approve your design will depend on whether you use a pre-approved ADU design plan or submit your design. Also, observing all the requirements and regulations for designing ADUs in San Jose will expedite the approval process.