HOME & DESIGN SPECIAL SECTION
A rendering of an ADU design option by local architect Rory Foubister
separate entry , sleeping / living area , full bathroom and kitchen . Junior ADUs , which are smaller converted spaces of up to 500 square feet , have their own entry area and a smaller “ efficiency ” kitchen , and either share the main home ’ s bathroom or have their own .
THE PERMIT PROCESS ADUs are more affordable than ever to build . New policies put in place in California limit the development impact fees that local jurisdictions may charge for ADU construction and have relaxed local zoning requirements , such as requiring design review , structured parking or elevators . Homeowners can often recoup the cost of building by renting out the unit . Creating an ADU also allows some homeowners to increase the square footage of their house , which increases property value .
To help advise the Laguna Beach City Council and staff on implementing the state mandate to encourage creation of ADUs , the city ’ s Housing and Human Services Committee established an ADU Subcommittee . “ This includes support of the development of ADUs and the challenge of providing truly affordable housing in the community , [ which is ] …
especially critical as it relates to the city ’ s longtime senior residents ,” says Cody Engle , subcommittee chairman .
The timeline for permitting and building an ADU can vary depending on the project . The city recommends first deciding if an ADU on your property is feasible with regards to zoning , site conditions and financial costs . Once that has been assessed , the city recommends allowing one to four months for design , three to six months for permits , and 9 to 12 months for construction , although it can take longer if a homeowner is seeking exceptions to height or access , for example , or if significant site development work is needed for hillside construction .
“ ADUs are being created at a record rate ,” Engle says . “ There is also significant interest in the community in bringing nonpermitted units into compliance , which requires many of the same planning review steps as a new project .”
HOW TO GET STARTED The city of Laguna Beach has an ADU Handbook on its website . The city ’ s Housing and Human Services Committee also provides resources for residents to learn more about the process through online tools and a YouTube video of the workshop held in September .
For independent consultation , homeowners can reach out to an architect or contractor to get started . “ The architectural design of an ADU is crucial to be coherent to the aesthetic of the existing home ,” says local architect Rory Foubister . “ Our process takes into consideration all aspects of existing structures on the site , and neighboring sites , to provide the most cohesive ADU for the owner and the surrounding community .”
Laguna ADU , founded by former mayor Elizabeth Pearson , is also a one-stop shop for ADU projects . She offers a complimentary consultation to see if an ADU is “ doable ” under state and city codes . With her experience of how the city operates and acquaintance with local architects , designers , engineers and contractors , Pearson is a great resource to help homeowners through the entire process . Her advice to those looking to build an ADU is : Be patient . “ Expect that your project will be completed / built at least nine to 12 months from the time you decide to move forward ,” she says , “ unless it is an interior conversion , which typically takes much less time .” g
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