GRANNY FLAT IN THE BACKYARD? California passes Bill to Add Accessory Dwelling Units

In October, Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill aimed at reducing the long-standing barriers that stopped the construction accessory dwelling units (ADUs). 

Granny Flats Grow

You may know them better as “granny flats,” which are defined as small freestanding or attached structures that homeowners can use to house a family member or they can rent out through services like Airbnb or regular rental. 

It was so named because it served as the ideal solution for an older relative to maintain their independence but be close enough should they need care. 

The Benefits of ADUs

ADUs provide a host of benefits, including creating more housing within existing neighborhoods without changing the aesthetic like an apartment building. They can also help more families tap into an additional revenue source to help pay their mortgage or earn more income.

Housing Demand and Interest in Flexible Floor Plans Grow

In recent years, the trend among new construction has been to offer at least one model home with what they termed flexible living. This often meant a separate entrance and layout that offered a self-contained area with a bedroom, bathroom, living space, laundry facility and even small kitchen. 

This construction trend emerged from the perceived demand for homes that could cater to multiple generation living as well as the sharing economy inspired by companies like Airbnb.   

The Challenges and Legal Changes

Even with all the benefits, it’s been challenging to construct a granny flat due to seemingly impossible ADU regulations. The first step toward construction freedom occurred when a bill was passed in 2016 that eased local and statewide barriers to building ADUs.

Since then, thousands of ADUs have since been built throughout California. In Los Angeles alone, over 10,000 applications for ADUs have been approved.

This new bill helps to remove some of the remaining ADU construction barriers. These include removing the requirement where homeowners would have to live in the ADU themselves or even in the primary home on the property. 

Certain California cities like Santa Monica have also removed the requirement to replace lost parking spaces when converting a garage to an ADU. More square footage is also now allowed for these granny flats. 

What You Can Do

As a homeowner, you can now enjoy more freedom to add these types of spaces. To learn more about the changes and how you can move forward on your own ADU plans, there are some online resources here to help. 

First, the California Department of Housing and Community Development has devoted an entire section of their website to ADUs. This state government authority provides information on recent updates to state laws, including an informative webinar. ZThey also have a technical assistance booklet, information on city and county ADU ordinances, permit and construction guidance, and links to further information found on other websites. 

Second, check out Hausable. It’s an ADU marketplace that provides you access to information about zoning requirements, cost estimates, and ADU design ideas. They show you how to apply for permits and connect you with local construction professionals who can help complete your ADU. All you need to do is enter your city or zip code. 

Time To Plan

With these positive legislative changes now going into effect, there’s no time like the present to move forward on adding an ADU to your property!

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