How to handle utility connections for an ADU in Santa Ana?

Hello,

Congratulations on embarking on the exciting journey of building an ADU on your property in Santa Ana! Navigating utility connections can be complex, but I’m here to break it down for you to ensure a smoother process.

### Utility Connections: Separate vs. Shared Meters

**Separate Meters:**

In Santa Ana, you’re not required to install separate utility meters for your ADU, but there are some advantages to doing so. Separate meters can provide greater independence for the ADU, especially if you plan to rent it out. It simplifies billing and can potentially add value to your property by providing clearer delineation of utility costs between the main house and the ADU.

**Shared Meters:**

If you opt to connect your ADU to the existing utilities, you’ll save on initial installation costs, which can be significant. However, you will be responsible for the total utility bill, which you may need to split with tenants if you rent out the ADU.

### Infrastructure Considerations

Given that your property is located in an older part of Santa Ana, it’s wise to have a professional assessment of your current utility infrastructure. Older systems may require upgrades to handle the additional load an ADU would place on them. Here’s what you might expect:

- **Electricity:** Upgrades might involve increasing your service panel capacity, which can range from $1,500 to $3,500 depending on the complexity.
- **Water and Sewage:** You may need to upgrade the water supply line or the sewage system, with costs ranging from $2,000 to $5,000 if major work is needed.

### Impact Fees

Santa Ana, like many California cities, follows state regulations regarding impact fees on ADUs. Under California Senate Bill 13 (SB-13), cities cannot impose impact fees on ADUs smaller than 750 square feet. For larger ADUs, fees are proportional to the size of the unit relative to the primary dwelling, but they are generally reduced. It’s advisable to contact the Santa Ana Planning and Building Agency directly for specific estimates, but expect a range of $3,000 to $8,000 depending on the size and scope.

### Practical Steps Moving Forward

1. **Consult with Professionals:** Engage a local architect or ADU specialist who understands Santa Ana’s unique building environment. They can provide insights into necessary upgrades and help with permit applications.

2. **Utility Provider Consultation:** Contact your utility providers (Southern California Edison for electricity, SoCalGas for gas, and the Santa Ana Water Department) early in the process. They can offer specific guidance on requirements and costs for both shared and separate meter installations.

3. **Budgeting:** Allocate a portion of your budget for potential utility upgrades. Given your $150,000 cap, plan for approximately $10,000-$15,000 for utility-related expenses to cover any unexpected costs.

4. **Permit Process:** Start the permit application process early. The City of Santa Ana requires that you submit detailed plans for your ADU, which include utility layout. The processing time can vary, but expect around 2-3 months depending on complexity and current city workload.

### Tips and Warnings

- **Avoid Costly Delays:** Ensure all your documents are complete before submission. Missing or incorrect paperwork is a common cause for delays.
- **Understand the Regulations:** Familiarize yourself with California’s ADU laws, such as AB-68 and SB-9, which streamline certain approvals and offer more flexibility in ADU construction.
- **Neighbor Communication:** Early communication with neighbors about your project can minimize resistance or complaints that might complicate the approval process.

### Resources

- **Santa Ana Planning and Building Agency Website:** For specific guidelines and contact information.
- **Local ADU Workshops/Webinars:** These can provide valuable insights and updates on city regulations.
- **California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD):** For broader state guidelines on ADUs.

By taking these steps and leveraging the available resources, you’ll be well on your way to successfully managing the utility connections for your ADU. Best of luck with your project, and feel free to reach out if you have more questions!

Warm regards,

[Your Name]
ADU Consultant