Carson ADU Checklist

Zoning Regulations in Carson

Understanding Carson’s zoning regulations is crucial for successful ADU development. These rules govern factors like lot size, ADU size, and setbacks, which impact design and placement. Considering these regulations early in the planning stage avoids potential complications later on.

ADU Size Limitations

Carson City zoning regulations set size limits for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), influencing their design and layout. Adhering to these restrictions from the start avoids construction issues and ensures compliance with local norms, maintaining the city’s aesthetics and preventing overcrowding.

Lot Size	Single-Family (Maximum Floor Area Allowed)	Duplex (Maximum Floor Area Allowed)	Multi-Family (Maximum Floor Area Allowed)
5,000 sq ft	50% of Lot Area (up to 2,500 sq ft)	40% of Lot Area (up to 2,000 sq ft)	40% of Lot Area (up to 2,000 sq ft)
7,500 sq ft	50% of Lot Area (up to 3,750 sq ft)	40% of Lot Area (up to 3,000 sq ft)	35% of Lot Area (up to 2,625 sq ft)
10,000 sq ft	50% of Lot Area (up to 5,000 sq ft)	40% of Lot Area (up to 4,000 sq ft)	30% of Lot Area (up to 3,000 sq ft)

ADU Height Limitations

The maximum height for detached Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) is 16 feet. Attached ADUs must adhere to the overall height limit of the main structure. To ensure accuracy, consult with the City of Carson Planning Division and confirm zoning regulations for your property. This proactive approach ensures your ADU plans align with city guidelines, avoiding issues during planning and construction.

Building coverage

In Carson, ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) have specific regulations. Detached ADUs cannot exceed 50% of the lot size, with a maximum size of 1,200 sq ft. Attached ADUs are limited by 50% of the main house’s floor area or specific size restrictions. Junior ADUs, smaller units with limited kitchen facilities, are restricted to 500 sq ft.

Location

Adding an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) to your property in Carson can provide additional living space, rental income, or accommodation for aging family members. However, knowing the location requirements specific to your property type is important before beginning the construction process.

Single-Family:

• Must be located on the same lot as the primary dwelling. This seems like a no-brainer, but it’s important to remember that detached ADUs cannot be built on vacant lots.
• Detached ADUs must maintain a minimum distance of 10 feet from side and rear property lines. This ensures proper ventilation, sunlight access, and privacy for the ADU and neighboring properties.
• Attached ADUs can share a wall with the primary dwelling. This space-saving option is often preferred for smaller lots or modern aesthetics.

Duplexes and Multi-Family:

• ADUs may be allowed within certain zoning districts, but specific regulations will apply. Unlike single-family homes, duplexes and multi-family properties have stricter zoning regulations regarding ADUs.

Exterior details

Exterior details of Carson ADUs should blend with the existing property, maintaining the neighborhood’s aesthetics. The design must comply with local regulations, including materials, colors, roof pitch, and landscaping.

Parking

Generally, conversion ADUs and junior ADUs don’t require parking. Attached and detached ADUs will require 1 parking space unless your project qualifies for an exemption from the parking requirements.

Setbacks and Buffer Zones

Attached and detached ADUs will need to be built at least 4 feet from your property’s side and rear property lines, while conversion ADUs and junior ADUs need to be set back a sufficient distance to ensure fire safety

Minimum Lot Area (RF Zone)

Carson’s RF Zone generally requires larger lot sizes for development, promoting spaciousness and lower density.

Zone	Minimum Lot Area
R-20	5,000 sq. ft.
R-10	7,500 sq. ft.
R-7	10,000 sq. ft.
R-5	15,000 sq. ft.
R-2.5	5,000 sq. ft.

Connection For Utilities

When planning for an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in Carson, it is recommended to have separate water and sewer lines to minimize disruption to the main house and prevent backflow issues. Independent plumbing, like separate drinking straws, is preferred, although shared connections are allowed in certain cases.

Consulting the City of Carson Planning Division is crucial to understanding size limitations and proximity to existing lines. Similarly, having individual meters for electricity and gas is ideal for clear billing, but shared meters may be possible with restrictions.

Fire Safety

In Carson, safety measures for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) include the installation of interconnected smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in every sleeping area and hallway. Each ADU should have a readily accessible fire extinguisher and two escape routes. These comprehensive safety measures prioritize the well-being of ADU occupants in Carson.

Room Specifications

• Sleeping Areas: Minimum bedroom size requirements is 70 sq ft for one person and 80 sq ft for two. ADUs prioritize healthy living by providing windows or access to a light court for natural light and ventilation. Adequate closet space, including storage solutions like built-in shelves, is also emphasized.
• Kitchen: requires a minimum size of 40 sq ft, while full kitchens with cooking appliances need larger spaces. Compliance with local regulations for appliances like refrigerators and ranges is crucial. Basic food prep and cleaning functionality, including a neat sink and countertop, are emphasized.
• Bathroom: The minimum size requirement for a functional bathroom is 35 sq ft. Proper ventilation is crucial, with options like windows or exhaust fans for moisture control. Accessibility can be enhanced with grab bars and wider doorways to accommodate diverse needs.
• Storage: Maximize space with clever built-in solutions like cabinets, shelves, and drawers, creating hidden storage nooks. Optimize functionality with multifunctional furniture such as ottomans and beds with built-in drawers. Utilize vertical space with wall-mounted shelves or cabinets, creating space-saving solutions that reach for the sky.

Short-term Rentals and Home Occupations Regulations

For turning your Carson ADU into a short-term rental, verify if it’s permitted in specific zoning districts by consulting the City Planning Division and obtaining a mandatory short-term rental license. Be aware of potential restrictions on rental frequency, duration, noise levels, and occupancy. If considering a home occupation, ensure activities are compatible with residential areas, obtain necessary permits from the City, and adhere to signage restrictions, maintaining a subtle, residential aesthetic.

Building Codes

Carson ADUs have size restrictions based on type and zoning. Detached units are envisioned as spacious pirate ships, while attached units are cozy cabins with distinct limitations. Follow strategic location rules to provide space for detached ADUs and allow attached units to share walls with the main house, like fitting puzzle pieces on your property. Prioritize fire safety with essential measures such as smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, and clear escape routes. They act as guardians for your ADU.

ADU Permit Carson Guidelines

Building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in Carson requires obtaining permits from the Planning Division at the City of Carson. The costs of these permits depend on the type and size of the ADU.

Permit Type	Cost
Planning Permit	for ADUs 500 sq ft or less $1,500 for ADUs over 500 sq ft $2,000
Building and Safety Permits	$1,000 – $3,000
Electrical Permit	$500 – $1,000
Plumbing Permit	$400 – $800
Mechanical Permit	$400 – $800

Read Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Standards to learn more about permit guidelines.

Property Requirements

In Carson, California, building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) depends on your property’s zoning and size. Detached ADUs can reach 1,200 sq ft, while attached ones follow a 50% of main house size or 1,000 sq ft limit. Both need 4 ft side/rear setbacks, while parking usually requires one space unless exempted.

Parking

Generally, only one space is required for attached or detached ADUs unless there’s no public transportation nearby or the ADU is bigger than 500 square feet. There are also exemptions for seniors, people with disabilities, and car-free households.

Front setbacks

Front setbacks for ADUs in Carson are typically required to maintain the aesthetics and spaciousness of the residential area. The exact distance is determined based on zoning and property size and can be clarified by consulting the City of Carson Planning Division.

Side and rear setbacks

In Carson, the setbacks for ADUs, both on the side and rear, are typically 4 feet. This generous allowance ensures sufficient space and privacy.

Open space and rear yards

Carson allows detached ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft with a minimum 4-foot setback from rear and side property lines, leaving plenty of open space for both the main dwelling and the ADU. Remember, the specific open space requirements will depend on your lot size and zoning.

Properties That Qualify

In Carson, only single-family homes are eligible for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), with duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes not qualifying. The minimum lot size for an ADU is 5,000 square feet, with exceptions for historic districts. Setbacks mandate a minimum of 4 feet from rear and side property lines.

ADUs are generally allowed in most residential zones in Carson, but it’s crucial to verify specific zoning regulations with the city planning department. The property owner must also occupy either the primary dwelling or the ADU; renting out both is prohibited.

Development Standards

Single-family

• Attached: can have a maximum size of 500 square feet and a height limit of 16 feet, although these dimensions may vary based on lot size and zoning regulations. They can be connected to the main house through a garage, breezeway, or existing structure, with setback requirements similar to the main house. Additional parking is not required for attached ADUs unless it exceeds four bedrooms on the property.
• Detached: can have a size of up to 1,200 square feet and a maximum height of 16 feet, but specific limitations may vary based on lot size and zoning. They should be positioned at least 4 feet from rear and side property lines, and one off-street parking space is needed. Detached ADUs must have separate utilities for water, sewer, and electricity.

Duplex properties

• Attached: These can be connected to the primary dwelling through a garage, breezeway, or other existing structure, or even sit above a garage. Size is limited to 500 square feet with a 16-foot height restriction. They must follow the same setbacks and parking requirements as the main house unless creating four or more bedrooms total.
• Detached: These independent units sit on the same lot as the main house but function as separate dwellings. They can be up to 1,200 square feet with a 16-foot height limit and require a minimum 4-foot setback from property lines. Detached ADUs need their utilities and one off-street parking space.

Multifamily properties

• Attached: Up to 500 square feet, connected to the main building through a breezeway, garage, etc. 16-foot height limit, follow setbacks and parking rules of the main building unless creating four or more bedrooms total.
• Detached: Up to 1,200 square feet, separate unit on the same property. 16-foot height limit, minimum 4-foot setback from property lines, need own utilities and one off-street parking space.

Junior ADUs (JADUs)

JADUs offer compact living options within existing structures or single-family homes, ranging from 150 to 500 square feet. They can be located inside a dwelling, converted from a garage, or built within an accessory structure. JADUs require an “efficiency kitchen” and may have their bathroom or share facilities with the main house. Additional parking is usually not required except when converting a garage; other zoning regulations may apply.

Property Designations

• Flood zones: Building in a flood zone may require additional flood mitigation measures like elevated foundations or specific construction materials, impacting your ADU design and budget. Check your local Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) to determine your zone.
• Geohazard zones: Specific construction methods and standards might be mandated if your property falls within a geohazard zone, like earthquake or landslide areas. Consult your local building department for required reinforcements or restrictions.
• Historic designation: If your property is listed on the National Register of Historic Places or has local historical significance, ADU design might need to adhere to specific aesthetic guidelines or preservation requirements. Consult your local historic preservation office for guidance.
• Easements: are legal rights granted to others to use portions of your property for specific purposes, like utility lines or public access. Be aware of any easements on your property and ensure your ADU design doesn’t impede their function.

Pre-Approved Carson ADUs

Carson offers a program providing homeowners with pre-designed and pre-reviewed ADU plans, vetted for compliance with zoning regulations and building codes to expedite the approval process. To qualify, your property must be a single-family home or duplex in a residentially zoned lot, not in specified zones like flood zones or geohazard areas.

After selecting a pre-approved ADU plan, submit an application for building permits to the Planning Division of the City of Carson, ensuring your chosen plan aligns with property specifications and additional site-specific requirements.

Start Your ADU Project Today!

Start your journey towards owning an ADU today! With Carson’s comprehensive guidelines and pre-approved plans, you’re halfway there. Our expert team will guide you from consultation to permits and design, making your project seamless and stress-free. Contact us at 877-979-3485 to discuss your plans and make your dream ADU a reality!

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