Are JADUs allowed in Glendale?

Hello,

It's great to hear that you're considering building a Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU) for your parents in Glendale. JADUs are a fantastic way to add value to your property while providing a comfortable living space for family members. Let's dive into the specifics of what this entails in Glendale, California.

### Zoning and Legal Requirements

1. **JADUs in Glendale:**
- Glendale does allow the construction of JADUs, which are smaller living units created within the existing structure of a single-family home. They can be up to 500 square feet and must be part of the primary residence, typically involving a conversion of an existing bedroom.

2. **Key Regulations:**
- **Owner-Occupancy Requirement:** For JADUs, California state law (AB-68) mandates that the owner must live in either the primary dwelling or the JADU. This is designed to ensure that properties remain well-maintained and integrated into the neighborhood fabric.
- **Zoning:** Your lot size of 6,500 square feet should be sufficient, but you’ll need to comply with Glendale’s specific zoning codes. Generally, this involves maintaining setbacks and ensuring that your JADU is compliant with local residential zoning laws.

3. **Permitting Process:**
- **Application:** Start by contacting the Glendale Building and Safety Department. You'll need to submit plans that adhere to both state and local building codes. The good news here is that for JADUs, the process is typically faster and less costly than for detached ADUs.
- **Timeline:** Expect the permitting process to take around 60 to 90 days from submission to approval, depending on the complexity of your project and the completeness of your application.

### Cost and Financing

1. **Budgeting:**
- Given your budget of $80,000, you should be in a good position. Costs for JADUs can range from $40,000 to $100,000, depending largely on the condition of the existing space and the finishes you choose.
- **Hidden Costs:** Watch out for potential hidden costs such as required upgrades to electrical systems, plumbing, or structural reinforcements which may be necessary if the existing infrastructure is outdated.

2. **Utility Hookups:**
- JADUs typically share utilities with the primary residence, which can save costs. However, you may still need to budget for additional plumbing or electrical work to ensure that the unit is fully functional and compliant with local codes.

### Common Pitfalls and Tips

1. **Design Considerations:**
- Ensure your design maximizes space efficiency. Since JADUs are small, every square foot counts. Consider multi-functional furniture and built-in storage solutions.

2. **Compliance and Documentation:**
- Keep meticulous records of all communications and approvals from the city. This can help avoid any compliance issues down the line.

3. **Professional Help:**
- Hiring an experienced local architect or contractor familiar with Glendale’s regulations can streamline the process significantly. They can help navigate the permitting process and ensure that your project complies with all relevant codes.

### Next Steps

1. **Connect with the City:**
- Contact the Glendale Building and Safety Department to discuss your plans and get specific feedback. They can provide you with the latest zoning information and any recent updates to local ordinances.

2. **Consult Professionals:**
- Engage with a local architect or a contractor who specializes in ADUs. They can provide insights specific to your property and help refine your budget and timeline.

3. **Research Financial Incentives:**
- Check for any state or local grants or financing options that might be available to support ADU projects, particularly those aimed at creating housing for family members.

### Resources

1. **Glendale Building and Safety Department Website:** They offer resources and contact information.
2. **California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD):** For state-level ADU guidelines and updates.

By following these steps and guidelines, you'll be well-equipped to embark on your JADU project in Glendale. It’s a rewarding venture that can provide significant benefits for your family. Best of luck, and feel free to reach out with more questions as you proceed!

Warm regards,

[Your Name]
ADU Specialist in California