What are the parking requirements for ADUs in Fresno?

Hello!

It's great to hear you're considering building an ADU on your Fresno property. Let's dive into your questions about parking requirements, exemptions, and design considerations.

### Parking Requirements and Exemptions

**Proximity to Public Transit:**
In California, state laws like AB-68 and local ordinances in Fresno stipulate that no additional parking is required for ADUs if your property is within half a mile of public transit. The term "public transit" typically includes bus stops with a regular schedule. To confirm if your property qualifies, you can measure the distance from your home to the nearest bus stop using Google Maps or a similar tool. If you're within 0.5 miles, you'll likely qualify for this exemption. I suggest contacting Fresno's Planning Department to verify your specific situation, as they can provide official confirmation.

**Standard Parking Requirements:**
If your property does not qualify for the transit exemption, Fresno generally requires one parking space per ADU. There is flexibility in how these parking spaces can be configured. Tandem parking is usually acceptable, meaning you can park one car behind another in your driveway. However, verify this with local ordinances, as interpretations can vary slightly based on specific neighborhood guidelines.

### Building a Garage Under the ADU

Constructing a garage below your ADU is a smart way to save space, especially on a 7,000 square foot lot. Here are some key considerations:

1. **Zoning and Permits:**
- Check with the Fresno Building and Safety Department to ensure your design complies with local zoning laws. Zoning will dictate things like height restrictions and setbacks from property lines.
- A garage/ADU combo requires a structural engineer to ensure proper support and compliance with seismic codes, given California's earthquake-prone nature.

2. **Costs:**
- Building an ADU with a garage can be more expensive than a standard ADU due to the need for additional structural support. In Fresno, you might expect to spend around $150 to $250 per square foot, depending on finishes and specific site conditions. For a 500 sq. ft. ADU over a garage, this could range from $75,000 to $125,000, fitting within your overall budget if managed carefully.

3. **Timeline:**
- The design and permitting phase can take 3-6 months, depending on complexity and city processing times. Construction could add another 6-9 months. Plan for about a year from start to finish.

### Practical Advice and Tips

- **Design Considerations:**
- Consider energy-efficient designs and materials, which can lead to long-term cost savings and may qualify for rebates or incentives.
- Ensure your ADU design aligns with the architectural style of your primary residence to maintain neighborhood aesthetics and potential property value.

- **Common Mistakes:**
- Overlooking utility connections. Ensure you budget for water, sewer, and electrical connections. These can add significant costs if your current utilities need upgrades.
- Not engaging with neighbors early in the process. Good relationships can ease the permitting process and avoid disputes.

### Next Steps

1. **Confirm Transit Proximity:**
- Measure your home's distance to nearby bus stops and consult the Planning Department.

2. **Engage Professionals:**
- Hire an architect with experience in ADUs, particularly in designing above-garage structures.

3. **Budget Planning:**
- Obtain detailed quotes from contractors to ensure your project stays within budget.

4. **Resources:**
- Visit Fresno's Planning and Development Department website for more information on local regulations.
- Consider attending any local ADU workshops or webinars offered by the city or local housing advocates.

Building an ADU is an exciting project that can add value to your property and provide flexible living options. By following these guidelines and leveraging local resources, you’ll be well on your way to a successful build. If you have any further questions or need recommendations for local professionals, feel free to reach out!

Best of luck with your ADU project!

Warm regards,

[Your Name]
ADU Consultant and Enthusiast