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Phase Two

Learning the Rules

Project timeline

Learning the Rules is part of the Planning phase, which typically takes 1-3 months. Most ADU projects take 12-18 months to complete, but some extend to 24 months or more.

Step-by-Step

Learn about your property

Learning the rules Step 1

First, you’ll gather some basic information about your property – how is it zoned? What’s the size of your lot and existing structures?

The most accurate and efficient way of completing this step is to register for one of our 1:1 feasibility consults. Otherwise, browse our Workbook and included exercises for more help on gathering this information.

This is a great time to think about utility connections and upgrades as well. See the FAQ about utility connections for more details.

Key Resources

Feasibility Consults

If you’re in a participating community, sign up for our 1:1 feasibility consultations to learn what you need to know about your property, local rules, and what you can build.

Learn what you can build

Learning the rules Step 2

Next, you’ll need to understand what you can build on your property. Local and state laws will impact what is possible for your ADU, like its size and height and may include additional  requirements about parking, fire safety, and more. 

Our customized feasibility consultations can help with this as well, but if you want to research the rules yourself you can see Local ADU Rules and the FAQs on this page to find out what applies.

You’ll be looking for rules including (but not limited to) the following:

  • ADU size (floor area)
  • ADU height
  • Setbacks (distance from the edge of your property to the main home or ADU)

Key Resources

Local ADU Rules

Learn about the ADU rules in your community. (Note: these pages are maintained only for ADU Center member communities – other communities can link to rules summaries if they like.)

Meet with local staff

learning the rules Step 3

One of the best things you can do is to talk to local planning staff early in the process about potential issues and other standards that might apply. If you decide to move forward, it’s a good idea to return with your final design for input before submitting your planning application. Staff will alert you to anything you should address before you submit. See our Contact page for local contact info.

Use our Workbook to help plan your conversation and take notes on the planner’s responses. This is also a good time to contact your utility service providers (waste, sewer, gas, electricity, etc.) to confirm requirements, timelines, and fees. 

If your basic project details (size, number of bedrooms) change based on this meeting, it’s a good idea to adjust your estimated project budget. 

Key Resources

ADU Workbook

A complete guide to planning an accessory dwelling unit for Napa & Sonoma Counties.

Related Blog posts

But really, have you checked out the ADU Workbook?
ADUs 101 Webinar for Napa & Sonoma County Homeowners
Webinar: How to Build an ADU in Sonoma County
Building ADUs in Napa & Sonoma Counties Webinar
Check out your local ADU rules!
Purchasing new property: Maximizing ADU build potential
How to Create an ADU Permit Application Webinar
Maxable Article on SB9
Webinar: Accessory Dwelling Unit Roundtable Conversation + Live Q&A
What’s the Deal with Septic Systems?
NEW ADU Laws Coming in Jan 2023

FAQs

Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about learning the rules.

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