Can I build an ADU on a corner lot in Huntington Beach?

Hello and thank you for reaching out with your questions about building an ADU on your corner lot in Huntington Beach. I'm glad to provide clarity and guidance as you embark on this project. Let's dive into your questions one by one:

### 1. Corner Lot Considerations

For corner lots in Huntington Beach, setbacks are indeed a crucial factor. Generally, corner lots must adhere to specific front and side yard setbacks, which can be more restrictive than interior lots. In Huntington Beach, typical setbacks for ADUs might include a minimum of 4 feet from the side and rear lot lines. However, since your property is on a corner, the street-adjacent side yard might require a larger setback, potentially up to 10 feet. It's important to consult with the Huntington Beach Planning Department to confirm the specific requirements for your lot, as they might have unique considerations for corner lots.

Additionally, because corner lots often have more street frontage, they might offer more flexibility in terms of design and orientation of the ADU, which can be advantageous.

### 2. Parking Requirements

Under state law (SB-1069 and AB-68), ADUs generally require one parking space per unit, unless your property is within half a mile of public transit, a car share vehicle, or is part of a historic district. However, Huntington Beach may have specific provisions for corner lots. It's possible that you might benefit from relaxed parking requirements if your property meets certain criteria. Confirming this with the local planning department will provide the most accurate guidance. In practice, many owners find they can meet parking requirements by utilizing existing driveway space or garage conversion.

### 3. Incentives and Cost-Offset Programs

Huntington Beach offers various incentives and programs that could help offset ADU construction costs. Some potential options include:

- **Fee Waivers or Reductions:** Some municipalities offer reduced fees for ADU permits. Check with the Huntington Beach Planning Department to see if they have any such programs.
- **State Grants and Loans:** California has state-level programs that provide financial assistance for ADU development, such as CalHFA’s ADU Grant Program, which offers funding to cover pre-development costs.
- **Utility Connection Fee Waivers:** Under AB-68, ADUs built within an existing structure may be exempt from certain utility connection fees.

### 4. Permit Process and Timeline

The permitting process in Huntington Beach typically involves several steps: pre-application meetings, plan submission, plan review, and final approval. The timeline can vary, but a realistic expectation for the entire process is approximately 3 to 6 months, depending on the complexity of your project and how quickly you address any feedback from city planners.

**Tips for a Smoother Experience:**

- **Pre-Application Consultation:** Schedule a meeting with the Planning Department early on to discuss your project. This can help identify potential issues before you formally submit your plans.
- **Hire Experienced Professionals:** Consider hiring a local architect or ADU specialist familiar with Huntington Beach regulations to streamline the design and approval process.
- **Be Thorough and Responsive:** Ensure your application is complete and respond promptly to any requests for additional information.

### Additional Considerations and Next Steps

- **Research Local Ordinances:** Huntington Beach may have ordinances that impact design elements like height restrictions, floor area ratios, and architectural style. Familiarizing yourself with these can prevent costly redesigns.
- **Utility Planning:** Early coordination with utility providers for electricity, water, and sewer services can avoid delays later in the process.

### Resources

- **Huntington Beach Planning Department:** This should be your first stop for all zoning and permit-related inquiries. They can be reached through their website or a visit to their office.
- **California Department of Housing and Community Development:** For state-level information and resources on ADU laws and incentives.

By carefully considering these factors and utilizing available resources, you'll be well-equipped to move forward with your ADU project. Best of luck with your plans, and feel free to reach out if you have more questions along the way!