Building a small house in your backyard can be exciting. These small houses are called Accessory Dwelling Units or ADUs. They can be great for many reasons. You might want to house family members. Or you could rent it out for extra money. But before you start building, you need to pick the right spot. Choosing where to put your ADU is very important. It can affect how well your ADU works. It can also impact your main house and yard.
We’ll talk about five key things to think about when picking a spot for your ADU. These factors will help you make a smart choice. They’ll ensure your ADU fits well on your property. By the end, you’ll feel more confident about choosing the perfect spot for your ADU.
Before we dive into site selection for an ADU. Here’s what you need to know:
Now that we know what an ADU is, let’s look at how to choose the best spot for one.
The first thing to think about is space. You need enough room for your ADU. Here’s what to consider:
Your property might have several open spots. But not all of them will work for an ADU. You need to think about more than just size. Let’s look at some other important factors.
Every city has rules about building. These rules are very important for ADUs. Here’s what you need to know:
Zoning laws can be tricky. They’re different in every city. Some areas might have stricter rules than others. It’s important to understand these rules before you pick a spot. They might limit where you can put your ADU.
When you build an ADU, you need to think about how people will get to it. You also need to consider privacy. Here are some things to think about:
Good access makes life easier for ADU residents. Privacy keeps everyone happy. You want to find a spot that works well for both. Sometimes, the perfect spot balances access and privacy.
Your ADU will need water, electricity, and more. Thinking about utilities is very important. Here’s what to consider:
Putting your ADU close to existing utilities can save money. It can also make construction easier. But don’t forget about other factors too. Sometimes, a great spot might need some extra work for utilities.
Your yard’s natural features can affect your ADU. Trees, slopes, and gardens all matter. Here’s what to think about:
These features can make your ADU better or cause problems. A shady spot might be cool in summer. But it might also be dark inside. A slope could offer great views. But it might make building harder. Think about how these features will affect your ADU.
Now that we’ve looked at all five factors, it’s time to put them together. Choosing a spot for your ADU means balancing these factors. Here’s how to do it:
Remember, there might not be a perfect spot. But you can find the best spot for your needs. It’s okay if one spot isn’t great for everything. The goal is to find a balanced solution.
When choosing a spot for an ADU, people sometimes make mistakes. Here are some to watch out for:
Avoiding these mistakes can save you trouble later. Take your time when choosing a spot. It’s an important decision that affects your whole property.
Sometimes, finding the right spot isn’t easy. Your property might have challenges. But don’t worry! There are often creative solutions. Here are some ideas:
Being creative can help you find great solutions. Sometimes, the best spot isn’t obvious at first. Keep an open mind and explore all your options.
The spot you choose for your ADU will affect everyday life. Here’s how:
Think about how you want to live with your ADU. The right spot can make life better for everyone. It can help your ADU become a natural part of your property.
When choosing a spot for your ADU, think about the future. Your needs might change over time. Here are some things to consider:
Picking a spot that works now and later is smart. It can save you trouble down the road. A little forward thinking goes a long way.
Choosing a spot for your ADU doesn’t have to be a solo job. Getting input from others can be helpful. Here’s who you might want to talk to:
Other people might see things you miss. They might have good ideas or important concerns. Listening to others can help you make a better choice.
After thinking about all these factors, it’s time to decide. Here’s how to make your final choice:
Remember, there’s no perfect answer. The best spot is the one that works well for you and your property. Take your time, but don’t be afraid to make a decision.
Choosing the right spot for your ADU is a big decision. It affects how well your ADU works and how you enjoy your property. We’ve looked at five key factors to consider: available space, zoning laws, access and privacy, utilities, and natural features. Each of these plays an important role in finding the best location. Remember to balance all these factors when making your choice. Think about how the ADU will fit into your daily life. Plan for the future and consider getting input from others.
By carefully considering all these aspects, you’ll be well-prepared to choose the perfect spot for your ADU. This thoughtful approach will help ensure that your ADU enhances your property and meets your needs for years to come. With the right location, your ADU can become a valuable and enjoyable addition to your home.
Yes, you can build on a slope, but it might be more challenging.
You may need special foundations or retaining walls. The design might also change to fit the slope. Always check with local experts about building on slopes.
The distance from property lines, called setbacks, varies by location. Some places allow ADUs right up to the property line. Others require several feet of space. Check your local zoning laws for specific rules.
Many places allow ADUs over garages. This can be a great use of space. You’ll need to make sure the garage can support the added weight. You might also need to add stairs for access.
Parking requirements for ADUs vary by location. Some cities require an extra parking space for the ADU. Others have removed this rule to encourage ADU building. Check your local regulations about ADU parking.
