Downey, California has recently seen a boom in the building of Accessory Dwelling Units (adus). This is due to a combination of the rising cost of living in the area and the easing of regulations for homeowners who wish to build an ADU. For those who are considering building an ADU in Downey, it is important to understand the requirements for obtaining a building permit. Let’s take a look at the city of Downey ADU requirements, so that you can be sure that you are meeting all necessary regulations when building your ADU.
- Understand the zoning requirements for an ADU in Downey
Zoning laws in the City of Downey must be taken into consideration when building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU). The City of Downey permits the construction of ADUs subject to the approval of a Conditional Use Permit (CUP), which is granted by the Planning Commission after a public hearing. The CUP is subject to certain conditions, and the application must include a full description of the proposed ADU and its proposed use.
Before applying for the CUP, applicants must first check with the Planning Division to determine if the project is in an area with specific zoning regulations. Furthermore, the ADU must meet the requirements of the Downey Municipal Code, which include: setbacks and height restrictions, parking, building materials, and landscaping. Additionally, applicants must provide evidence that the ADU will be used for residential purposes and not for any other type of use.
- Learn the minimum size requirements for the property and ADU
It is important to understand the minimum size requirements for properties and ADUs in the city of Downey. The minimum size requirements are the minimum measurements of the space available for the ADU, including the total square footage, height, and width of the home. Additionally, the minimum size requirements must also be met for parking spaces, decks, and yards as required by Downey’s zoning ordinance. It is essential that you are aware of the minimum size requirements for the property and ADU before you decide to embark on the journey to build an ADU.
- Consider the design and construction standards for the ADU
When constructing an Accessory Dwelling Unit in Downey, it is important to ensure that it meets all of the necessary design and construction standards. The ADU should be designed to meet the requirements of the local building code, zoning ordinance, and other applicable regulations. It is also important to consider the environmental impact of the ADU, as well as how its design and construction may affect the surrounding neighborhood. Additionally, all ADUs should be built to be durable and energy-efficient, while remaining aesthetically pleasing.
All in all, Downey’s ADU requirements are straightforward and easy to follow. The city provides a number of resources to help you get started, so if you’re looking to build an ADU, Downey is a great option. With an array of zoning regulations, architectural standards, and permit requirements to consider, the process of building an ADU in Downey can seem daunting, but following these guidelines will help ensure your project meets all the necessary criteria and is ready to be approved.
