What are the parking requirements for ADUs in Santa Clarita?

Hello there,

It's great to hear that you're considering building an ADU on your Santa Clarita property. Your questions about parking are very common, and understanding the nuances of local regulations is crucial to ensuring your project runs smoothly. Let’s break down the parking requirements and other considerations for your ADU project.

### Parking Requirements for ADUs in Santa Clarita

**1. General State Requirements:**
Under California state law, specifically SB-13 and AB-68, ADUs generally require one parking space per unit or bedroom, whichever is less. However, there are significant exemptions.

**2. Exemptions:**
In Santa Clarita, and generally statewide, parking requirements for ADUs are waived if:

- The ADU is located within half a mile of public transit (such as a bus stop).
- The ADU is part of an existing primary residence or an existing accessory structure.
- The ADU is in a historically significant district.
- On-street parking permits are required but not offered to the occupant of the ADU.
- There is a car share vehicle located within one block of the ADU.

Given the size of your lot (8,000 square feet), your primary focus should be to determine if you qualify for the transit proximity exemption. Check local maps or contact the Santa Clarita Valley Transit to confirm the proximity of your property to public transportation.

**3. Junior ADUs (JADUs):**
Santa Clarita, like other Californian cities, distinguishes between ADUs and JADUs. A JADU is a unit of no more than 500 square feet and must be within the walls of a single-family home. Typically, JADUs do not require additional parking if certain conditions are met, such as shared sanitation facilities with the primary residence.

### Street Parking Considerations

Since your driveway is already crowded, it’s important to consider street parking. If your neighborhood has street parking restrictions, it’s worth discussing this with a local planning official to see how your ADU might impact your current parking situation.

### Costs and Timelines

**1. Costs:**
With your budget around $150,000, it's feasible to cover design, permitting, and construction. Here’s a rough breakdown:

- **Design & Permits:** $5,000 - $10,000
- **Construction:** $100,000 - $130,000 (depending on materials and labor)
- **Utilities & Other Costs:** $10,000 - $15,000

**2. Timelines:**
- **Design and Permitting:** Typically, expect 3-6 months. This includes time for drafting plans, getting approvals, and any necessary revisions.
- **Construction:** Once permits are in hand, construction can take anywhere from 4-8 months.

### Local Considerations

Santa Clarita’s specific zoning ordinances may have unique requirements beyond state laws, so always check with the Santa Clarita Planning Division. They can provide detailed maps and guidelines that apply to your neighborhood.

### Practical Advice and Common Mistakes

- **Thorough Research:** Ensure you confirm all details with the city’s planning department to avoid surprises.
- **Professional Help:** Hire a local architect or ADU consultant familiar with Santa Clarita to help navigate the permitting process efficiently.
- **Neighbor Relations:** Discuss your plans with neighbors, especially concerning parking, to preemptively address any concerns.

### Next Steps

1. **Verify Exemptions:** Contact Santa Clarita’s Planning Division to confirm if your property qualifies for parking exemptions.
2. **Professional Consultation:** Engage with a local architect or ADU specialist to draft your plans and estimate costs accurately.
3. **Plan Submission:** Once plans are finalized, submit for city approval and be prepared for any adjustments requested by planning officials.
4. **Begin Construction:** After securing permits, move forward with construction, keeping communication open with contractors and city inspectors.

### Recommended Resources

- **Santa Clarita Planning Division:** They can provide specific guidance and confirm parking exemptions.
- **Santa Clarita Valley Transit:** Verify the proximity of your property to public transportation.
- **ADU Specialist or Architect:** For personalized guidance and efficient project execution.

Building an ADU is an excellent way to enhance your property’s value and utility. With careful planning and compliance with local regulations, you’ll be well on your way to a successful project. Good luck, and feel free to reach out if you have more questions!

Warm regards,

[Your Name]
ADU Consultant