Serving CA, WA, OR, and GA.
With Gather, designing your ideal ADU is a breeze. We manage all the planning and permitting paperwork, ensuring you enjoy a seamless experience and complete peace of mind.
Though backyard homes are typically the most familiar, ADU structures come in various types. The illustration below shows the four primary types of ADU structures.
ADUs can be built using a variety of construction methods, including pre-fabricated, modular, shed, container, panelized (in pieces), and stick-built. Each construction method has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost, time, and customization.
In a proactive effort to combat the ongoing housing crisis, the State of California has adopted specific regulations to promote the construction and utilization of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). Here's an expanded and comprehensive breakdown of the key points:
1. Purpose and Prominence: California recognizes the potential of ADUs in providing affordable housing options. Given the state's dense urban centers and escalating property prices, ADUs present a viable solution to address the growing demand for residential spaces.
2. Eligibility for Establishment: Both single-family homes and multifamily properties can host an ADU.
3. Size Considerations: For detached ADUs, the maximum allowable size is up to 1,200 square feet.
The actual size of an ADU might vary depending on specific factors such as the total lot area and the size of the primary dwelling on the property.
4. Parking Norms: The state mandates limited parking requirements for ADUs.
If an ADU is situated near public transit, these parking stipulations may be even less stringent, facilitating easy construction and usage.
5. Owner-Occupancy: Historically, some jurisdictions required the property owner to live in either the primary home or the ADU. However, for ADUs permitted between 2020 and 2025, the state does not enforce such owner-occupancy requirements, allowing for greater flexibility in usage.
6. Setback Rules: For detached ADUs, there's a minimum setback requirement of 4 feet from both the rear and side yard boundaries.
7. Approval Process: Cities across the state are obligated to approve compliant ADU applications within a span of 60 days. This streamlined process ensures quick turnarounds and encourages homeowners to consider ADU development.
8. Fee Structure: To further incentivize ADU establishment, the state has reduced or completely waived fees for ADUs that are less than 750 square feet. This can translate to significant savings for property owners.
9. Rental Conditions: If an ADU meets the stipulated requirements laid out by the city, it must be available for rental. This regulation ensures that ADUs actively contribute to alleviating housing shortages.
10. Local Jurisdictional Variances: While the above guidelines provide a general framework, it's crucial to note that local jurisdictions might have their unique sets of regulations and requirements. Property owners should consult their respective city or county planning departments to get precise and localized information.
In conclusion, as California grapples with housing challenges, ADUs offer a promising avenue to augment living spaces without the need for expansive new developments. These guidelines, though comprehensive, serve as a starting point, and it's always recommended to liaise with local experts for tailored advice.
State laws (RCW 36.70A.680 and 36.70A.681) mandate that all local governments under the Growth Management Act (GMA), irrespective of size and including both cities and counties within unincorporated urban growth areas, update their regulations to align with specific criteria within six months following their scheduled update. The key directives include:
These regulations aim to encourage the development of ADUs, offering more housing options within urban growth areas.
Since July 1, 2018, most Oregon cities and counties allow homeowners to build Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) on residential properties. However, local rules on ADU size, placement, and design must be followed. Each area has its own rules for:
Local governments also have different processes for giving permits and may charge fees for building an ADU. These fees, including impact fees or system development charges, can vary a lot. Some places might not charge these fees at all, while others could charge $15,000 or more for each ADU.
In Oregon, the rules for creating Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) set standards to boost housing while keeping communities looking good. Understanding Oregon's ADU laws is crucial for compliance and making the most of ADU benefits. Cities must have over 2,500 people, and counties over 15,000, to fall under the ADU mandate. This supports urban housing needs. Urban Growth Boundaries (UGBs) define where ADUs can be built, promoting smart growth and land use without harming Oregon's landscapes.
Oregon's ADU laws aim to increase affordable housing. They require local governments to process ADU applications efficiently, especially in urban areas. State laws stop local rules from demanding owners live in ADUs or provide extra parking, except for vacation rentals. Setback requirements ensure ADUs are well-placed, respecting privacy and the environment. Oregon encourages updating local ADU rules to match state standards, making it easier to build ADUs and help with housing shortages.
Design and siting rules for Oregon ADUs ensure they fit well with urban settings and offer design flexibility. Oregon prefers less restrictive rules for ADUs compared to other buildings, aiming to increase housing options responsibly. The state simplifies ADU regulations, replacing complex zoning laws with clearer, state-wide standards. This helps reduce red tape and encourage ADU construction.
Oregon's approach to ADUs, including size restrictions and utility connection guidelines, is designed to integrate ADUs smoothly into neighborhoods, addressing housing needs. ADUs can't be too large compared to the main house, and shared utility connections are encouraged to keep costs down. This effort shows Oregon's commitment to innovative, affordable housing solutions.
With Gather, you're not just building an ADU — you're cultivating peace of mind. Our end-to-end guidance and ongoing support mean every decision is informed, every step is intentional, and every outcome exceeds expectations. With us, your dream ADU is within reach. Here is what we do:
With Gather, designing your ideal ADU is a breeze. We manage all the planning and permitting paperwork, ensuring you enjoy a seamless experience and complete peace of mind.
%20(1).png)
San Diego is located in Southern California and is renowned for its cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes. It provides residents with both urban amenities and suburban comfort.
San Diego, often referred to as "America's Finest City," is a vibrant coastal metropolis in Southern California. Known for its near-perfect climate, beautiful beaches, and laid-back lifestyle, San Diego offers a unique blend of urban amenities and natural beauty that sets it apart from other major California cities.
Population: San Diego is the eighth-largest city in the United States, with a population of approximately 1.4 million people. The greater San Diego metropolitan area is home to over 1406630 residents, making it a significant urban center in California.
Local Economy: San Diego's economy is diverse and robust, driven by several key sectors:
Popular Neighborhoods:
Real Estate Overview: San Diego's real estate market is competitive and relatively expensive, though not as pricey as San Francisco or Los Angeles. The median home price in San Diego is around $825,000, reflecting the city's desirability and strong economy. The rental market is also robust, with high demand for both long-term rentals and vacation properties.
Landmarks and Attractions:
ADU Regulations in San Diego:
San Diego has embraced ADUs as a strategy to address housing needs, implementing regulations that encourage their construction:
These regulations have made ADU development more accessible and have contributed to an increase in housing options throughout the city.
Unique Aspects of San Diego:
What truly sets San Diego apart is its exceptional climate, often described as "Mediterranean" with warm, dry summers and mild winters. This allows for year-round outdoor activities, from surfing and paddle boarding to hiking and golfing.
The city's relationship with the military is a defining characteristic. San Diego is home to the largest concentration of military in the world, which significantly influences the local culture and economy.
San Diego's craft beer scene is world-renowned, with over 150 breweries in the county. The city has been called the "Craft Beer Capital of America," and this industry has become a significant part of its cultural identity.
The binational nature of the San Diego-Tijuana metropolitan area creates a unique cross-border culture. Many residents regularly cross the border for work, leisure, or to visit family, creating a blended cultural experience unique to this region.
San Diego's commitment to conservation is evident in its numerous protected areas and marine reserves. The city is a leader in water conservation efforts, given its arid climate, and has made significant strides in renewable energy adoption.
The city's strong ties to the ocean are reflected not just in its beach culture, but also in its world-class oceanographic research institutions like the Scripps Institution of Oceanography.
In conclusion, San Diego offers a rare combination of urban sophistication and natural beauty. Its perfect weather, diverse economy, and progressive policies, including its ADU regulations, make it an attractive destination for both residents and visitors. The city manages to maintain a relaxed, beach town vibe despite its size, offering a unique quality of life that blends the best of Southern California living with cutting-edge industries and cultural diversity.
With Gather, designing your ideal ADU is a breeze. We manage all the planning and permitting paperwork, ensuring you enjoy a seamless experience and complete peace of mind.
32.7157
-117.1611
Converting your San Diego garage into an ADU can boost your home's value significantly by adding extra living space and rental income potential. This investment taps into the high demand for ADUs in San Diego's housing market, offering both financial returns and increased property appeal.
San Diego's ADU Bonus Program encourages the construction of additional Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) by offering incentives like reduced permit fees, expedited processing, and relaxed zoning regulations. The program aims to address the housing shortage and promote affordable housing by allowing more ADUs than typically permitted if certain criteria are met.
An ADU, or Accessory Dwelling Unit, is also known as a tiny home, granny flat, in-law unit, or garage apartment. We help homeowners by providing expert guidance and tools to navigate the process of building an ADU, from zoning and permitting, to design and size considerations, to cost estimation, and through the construction process itself.
Our services include assistance with zoning and permitting. We help you identify your property's specific zoning requirements and the necessary permits for ADU construction, ensuring your project stays compliant with local regulations.
We offer information and resources on the construction process, timelines, and best practices for building an ADU. Additionally, we have a network of trusted builders you can partner with to ensure a seamless, efficient, and high-quality build for your ADU.
With the Gather Feasibility Report, you can confidently embark on your ADU journey, knowing you've got a solid foundation and a clear roadmap to success. Let us help you transform your space into a functional, comfortable, and profitable asset today.
We
1) Thoroughly analyze your property records for a tailored assessment,
2) Work with city and county authorities on your behalf for a hassle-free experience,
3) Secure a preliminary "pre-approval" from city/county for your peace of mind,
4) Deliver a comprehensive report document detailing your property's ADU possibilities.
Embark on your ADU adventure with Gather ADU, and make the most of your property's potential without the stress or hassle.
No, it isn't required. GatherADU offers support at every step of the ADU process, allowing you to proceed without making an immediate full commitment. You have the flexibility to progress at your own pace and opt for pay-as-you-go.
GatherADU provides ADU design and planning services nationwide with focus on California, Washington, Oregon, and Georgia.
Explore your ADU possibilities with Gather.
