Can I have multiple ADUs on one lot in Huntington Beach?

Hello, and thank you for reaching out to the HB community with your questions about adding ADUs to your property in Huntington Beach. You're correct that California law is quite supportive of ADUs, but navigating the specifics of local ordinances can be a bit more complex. Let's dive into your questions one by one.

### Can I Legally Have Multiple ADUs on My Lot?

In Huntington Beach, as in much of California, you can indeed have more than one ADU on your lot, although there are specific conditions and limits. According to California state law (such as SB-9 and AB-68), homeowners can generally build one standard ADU and one Junior ADU (JADU) on a single-family lot. Your 7,500 square-foot lot is a good size, which should give you some flexibility in design and placement.

1. **Standard ADU**: This can be a detached or attached unit, with its own entrance, kitchen, and bathroom facilities. The maximum size is typically 1,200 square feet.

2. **Junior ADU (JADU)**: This is a smaller unit, usually up to 500 square feet, that must be created within the existing walls of a single-family home. It can have its own kitchenette, but it can share a bathroom with the primary residence.

It's crucial to check the specific zoning regulations of your neighborhood in Huntington Beach. Typically, the city adheres to state mandates but may have additional requirements regarding setbacks, height limitations, and design standards.

### Parking Considerations

Parking can indeed be a tricky aspect of ADU development. California state law mandates that if your property is within half a mile of public transit, you may not be required to provide additional parking for your ADUs. Given your concern about street parking restrictions, it's advisable to check if your property falls within this transit area. If it doesn't, providing one additional parking space per ADU might be necessary.

### Local Constraints and Permits

Huntington Beach, like other cities, has its own permitting process. Here are some steps and considerations:

1. **Pre-Application Meeting**: Engage with the city’s Planning Department early. This meeting can clarify specific requirements and constraints for your neighborhood.

2. **Design Review**: Ensure your ADU designs comply with local architectural guidelines. Huntington Beach emphasizes neighborhood character, so your designs should harmonize with existing structures.

3. **Permitting Process**: The process generally includes planning approval, building permits, and inspections. This can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months, depending on the complexity of your project and the speed of city approvals.

4. **Budget Considerations**: With a budget of $200,000, you're in a reasonable range for constructing a standard ADU in Huntington Beach. Costs can vary based on materials, design complexity, and labor. A typical cost range for a detached ADU is $150 to $250 per square foot, so you might prioritize design elements that offer the best return on investment.

### Tips and Common Mistakes

- **Architectural Consistency**: Ensure your ADU designs are consistent with your primary home’s architecture; this can smooth the approval process.
- **Utilities**: Plan for utility connections early, as these can be a significant cost and logistical hurdle.
- **Professional Guidance**: Consider hiring a local ADU consultant who understands Huntington Beach's specific requirements and has experience navigating the permitting process.

### Next Steps

1. **Contact the Huntington Beach Planning Department**: This should be your first step to gather information on zoning, specific neighborhood regulations, and the permitting process.

2. **Hire a Local Architect/Designer**: An experienced professional can help design your ADU(s) to meet both your needs and local regulations.

3. **Explore Financing Options**: If your budget is tight, look into financing options specific to ADU construction, such as home equity loans or specialized ADU construction loans.

4. **Community Feedback**: Engage with your neighbors early in the process. Positive neighborhood relations can sometimes influence smoother project approvals.

By taking these steps and familiarizing yourself with both state and local regulations, you'll be well on your way to successfully developing your additional dwelling units in Huntington Beach. Good luck with your project, and feel free to reach out with more questions as you progress!