Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
What is an ADU?
An ADU is accessory to a primary residence and has complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and has a few variations:
- Detached: The unit is separated from the primary structure.
- Attached: The unit is attached to the primary structure.
- Converted Existing Space: Space (e.g., master bedroom, attached garage, storage area, or similar use, or an accessory structure) on the lot of the primary residence that is converted into an independent living unit.
- JADU: A specific type of conversion of existing space that is contained entirely within an existing or proposed single-family residence.
What are the benefits of ADUs?
ADUs are an affordable type of home to construct in California because they do not require paying for land, major new infrastructure, structured parking, or elevators.
- ADUs can provide a source of income for homeowners.
- ADUs are built with cost-effective wood frame construction, which is significantly less costly than homes in new multifamily infill buildings.
- ADUs allow extended families to be near one another while maintaining privacy.
- ADUs can provide as much living space as many newly-built apartments and condominiums, and they’re suited well for couples, small families, friends, young people, and seniors.
- ADUs give homeowners the flexibility to share independent living areas with family members and others, allowing seniors to age in place as they require more care.
The City of Gonzales, in partnership with Design Path Studio, is providing property owners with a choice of four (4) pre-approved ADU plans to encourage the development of new detached ADUs within the city boundaries. A detached ADU is an independent structure separate from the primary dwelling. The available plans encompass four (4) architectural styles: Craftsman, Mid-Century, Ranch, and Spanish, offering four (4) unit types: 1A - One Bed/One Bath (495 sf), 1B - One Bed/One Bath (553 sf), 2A - Two Bed/Two Bath (749 sf), 2B - Two Bed/One Bath (746 sf).
While the plans allow for customizable options in external style and materials, they must ultimately comply with the design standards of the main dwelling unit. The use of pre-approved plans reduces preconstruction fees and expedites the permitting process. However, property owners must submit additional documents and schematics at the time of submittal. It's important to note that these plans are exclusively intended for new detached ADUs within the City of Gonzales limits. Existing or attached dwelling units are not permitted to utilize these pre-approved plans.