Union City ADU Rules
Before constructing an ADU on your property in Union City, knowing the applicable Union City ADU rules is essential. Here are the critical Union City ADU rules you should consider before starting your project.
Rules for Constructing an ADU in Union City
General Information:
- Union City requires homeowners to obtain proper permits and approvals before constructing an ADU.
- ADUs must comply with local zoning laws, making size and other restrictions specific to the local area.
- ADUs are subject to the same building standards and inspection process as single-family dwellings.
Size Requirements:
- Maximum floor area: For detached units, no larger than 1,200 square feet; for attached units, no larger than the primary residence or 800 square feet, whichever is smaller.
- Maximum lot coverage: 800 square feet for detached units and none for attached units.
Usage Requirements:
- Must be used as a secondary residence, either occupied by a family member as a residence or rented.
- Cannot be used as short-term rental such as vacation rentals.
- Maximum occupancy limit: 3 persons or one person per 150 square feet of floor area.
Design Requirements:
- Must be similar in design and character to a primary residence.
- Matching exterior materials and colors should be used.
- Roof pitch, ridge height and eave line must match the primary residence.
Parking Requirements:
- Must provide at least one parking space for the ADU.
- ADUs with two or more bedrooms must provide two parking spaces.
Utility Requirements:
- Must connect to existing utilities of primary residence, including water, sewer, electric and gas.
- Must be connected to local drainage systems.
- Must comply with local plumbing, electrical and mechanical codes.
Setback Requirements:
- All building elements must meet local setback requirements.
- Must be located at least 10 feet from the primary residence.
Construction Requirements:
- Must comply with local building codes and standards.
- It Must be insulated for energy efficiency.
- All exterior walls, doors and windows must contain screens.
Tax Requirements:
- ADU owners must pay applicable taxes, such as real estate taxes, even if the unit isn’t rented.
Location Requirements:
- Must be located on the same lot as the primary residence.
- Must be separated from the primary residence by fencing or wall to ensure privacy.
Height Restrictions:
- Maximum roof height: 18 feet for pitched roofs; 16 feet for flat roofs
- Maximum wall height: 12 feet
- Second-story ADUs are allowed only in designated areas.
Yard Requirement:
- Adequate landscaping must be provided.
- Any open side yards must contain a fence or wall at least 6 feet in height.
Lot Coverage Requirements:
- All buildings can cover 30% of the lot.
- Collective coverage limit applies to the primary residence, existing accessory structures, and the ADU.
Easement Requirements:
- Must be at least 8 feet of a public or “publicly accessible” easement on the lot.
- Must not interfere with existing utility or drainage easements.
Safety Requirements:
- Must have a fire extinguisher and smoke alarms.
- Must have an emergency exit that is accessible from inside.
External Accessory Structures Requirements:
- Must comply with local zoning laws.
- One detached ADU is allowed per lot.
- Must allow access to the ADU or primary residence.
Signage Requirements:
- Must not contain any offensive language or content.
- Must not obstruct the public view.
Energy Efficiency Requirements:
- Must conform to state and local energy codes.
- Must have energy-efficient appliances and windows.
- Must contain insulation to conserve energy.
Noise Requirements:
- Must comply with local noise regulations.
- Must not be disruptive to the neighborhood.
Fencing Requirements:
- Fencing must be provided between the ADU and the primary residence for security.
- All exterior fences must be at least 6 feet in height.
Union City ADU rules have made it easier for homeowners to build and rent out secondary units, providing more housing options and lower rental rates. Frost Remodeling is an excellent option if you want to know more about ADU and its rules. Thus, you should better understand the laws and regulations surrounding ADUs in Union City and how to comply correctly.