Zoning Regulations in Mission Hills

Special zoning rules apply for ADU construction in Mission Hills. Formation of ADUs is allowed in residential areas, but it is necessary to follow certain rules. Different zoning rules may apply in different areas of the city. It is important to know the local rules before construction.

Zoning Regulations

ADU Size Limitations

Lot Size Chart:

Lot Size Single-Family (Maximum Floor Area) Duplex and Multi-Family (Maximum Floor Area)
4,500 1,100 sq ft 750 sq ft
7,000 1,400 sq ft 950 sq ft
9,500 1,700 sq ft 1,150 sq ft
14,500 2,300 sq ft 1,550 sq ft
19,500 2,900 sq ft 1,950 sq ft

The size of the ADU depends on the size of your main house and the area of the plot. Small ADU can be made in small plots and big ADU in big plots. There is a limit on the maximum floor area for each plot size.

ADU Height Limitations

The maximum height of the ADU in Mission Hills should be up to fifteen feet. The height of the ADU must be less than the height of the main house. Two-storey ADUs are allowed only in special circumstances. Construction work can be stopped if the height limit is not followed.

Building coverage

A maximum of forty percent of the total area of the plot can be used for building coverage. This range includes both the main house and the ADU. This rule is very important to maintain open space and greenery.

Location

There are several important things to keep in mind while choosing the location of an ADU. The distance of the ADU from the main house should be at least ten feet. The privacy of the neighbor should also be considered. The entrance to the ADU should be easily visible.

Single-Family Homes:

  • Detached ADUs: The minimum distance from the main house for separate ADUs should be ten feet. Take care of the convenience of electricity and water connections.
  • Attached ADUs: Connected ADUs should have a direct entrance from the main house. It is important to follow the rules of fire safety.

Duplexes and Multi-family:

  • General Requirements: There should be separate parking arrangement for ADU in duplexes. Each unit has a separate entrance.
  • Zoning Specifics: Special zoning rules apply for ADUs in multi-storey buildings. It is necessary to take permission from the local authority.

Exterior details

The exterior design of the ADU should match the main house. The color of the walls and the design of the ceiling should be like the main house. The styling of windows and doors should also be similar. Use high quality paint on exterior walls.

Parking

There should be at least one car parking space for ADU. The way to reach the parking lot should be clear. Garages are allowed to be converted into ADUs. Permission for roadside parking depends on local regulations.

Setbacks and Buffer Zones

It is important to maintain proper distance around the ADU. There should be a distance of at least twenty feet from the front. Five feet in the back and side is mandatory. It is necessary to create a buffer zone for the privacy of the neighbor.

Minimum Lot Area (RF Zone)

Zone Chart:

Zone Minimum Lot Area
R-18 4,800 sq. ft.
R-9 7,200 sq. ft.
R-6 9,800 sq. ft.
R-4 14,800 sq. ft.
R-2 19,800 sq. ft.

Connection For Utilities

It is necessary to arrange separate electricity, water and sewer connections for ADU. The ADU can be connected to the utility line of the main house. It is mandatory to install separate meters for electricity. Water line and sewer connection work should be done by licensed plumbers only.

All necessary permissions must be obtained from the local utility department. It is necessary to follow safety standards for the gas line. Electricity and water bills will come separately. There may be an additional charge for utility connections.

Fire Safety

It is mandatory to install smoke detectors in ADU for fire safety. There should be an emergency exit. Doors and windows should open easily. Ensure availability of fire extinguishers. Follow the safety rules strictly.

Room Specifications

Room Specifications

  • Sleeping Areas:  The minimum area of the bedroom should be 100 square feet. It is mandatory to have a window in the room. There should be enough room for one person.
  • Kitchen: The kitchen should have space for sink, stove and fridge. Make proper arrangements for ventilation. The counter space should be at least twenty square feet.
  • Bathroom: The bathroom should have a shower or bathtub, wash basin and toilet facilities. It is important to install an exhaust fan. The floor should be slippery.
  • Storage Spaces: There should be enough storage space to keep the goods. Build the shelves into the wall itself. The storage area should be well-organized.

Short-term Rentals and Home Occupations Regulations

Special permission is required for short-term renting of ADUs in Mission Hills. Domestic business is allowed to run but there are some limitations. Noise or polluting business is not permitted. It is important to follow the rental rules.

Building Codes

ADU construction is required to comply with California building codes. All building materials should be of standard quality. Get the electrical and plumbing work done by a licensed contractor. Safety standards cannot be ignored.

ADU Permit Mission Hills Guidelines

It is mandatory for ADUs to obtain a building permit. Submit all the required documents on time. The permit process can take about three months. Make sure to follow all the rules during the inspection.

Permit Cost Chart:

Permit Type Cost
Building Permit $2,500 – $5,500
Electrical Permit $300 – $550
Plumbing Permit $250 – $450
Mechanical Permit $200 – $350
Demolition Permit $150 – $250
Landscaping Permit $75 – $150

Property Requirements

Your property should be suitable for ADU construction. The ground should be flat and strong. It is necessary to take care of the groundwater level. Take care not to damage trees and plants. Follow local environmental regulations.

Parking

There should be parking of at least one vehicle for the residents of ADU. The way to the parking lot should be clear and wide. Vehicular movement should not disturb the neighbors. There should be enough light in the parking area at night.

Front setbacks

The distance of the ADU from the side of the road should be at least twenty feet. The entryway should be clearly visible. Maintain the beauty of the front yard. Leave enough space for pedestrians.

Side and rear setbacks

A minimum distance of five feet on the sides and back is mandatory. Take care of the neighbor’s privacy. ADU windows should not open directly towards the neighbor’s house. Make proper arrangements for the drainage of water.

Open space and rear yards

It is important to maintain greenery in the open space and back courtyard. Leave enough space for children to play. Reserve some space for gardening. Maintain natural light and air flow.

Properties That Qualify

ADUs are allowed to be built in all residential areas in Mission Hills. Your plot should be larger than the minimum required area. The main house must be legally registered. All documents of ownership of the building should be clear.

Special permission is required to build ADUs in buildings of historical importance. Additional safety standards must be followed in flood affected areas. There should be no risk of landslides in hilly areas.

Development Standards

Single-family

  • Attached:  The entrance to the ADU attached to the main house should be separate. The walls should be made of fire-resistant material. Electricity and water connections should be separate from the main house. The width of stairs and corridors should be sufficient.
  • Detached: The separate ADU should be at least ten feet away from the main house. There should be a separate arrangement for roof water drainage. Construct exterior walls with weather-resistant material. Install appropriate windows for natural light.

Duplex properties

  • Attached:  It is necessary to install a separate meter for the ADU connected in the duplex. Each unit has a separate entrance. All fire safety measures should be taken. Build sound-resistant walls.
  • Detached: There should be enough open space for the ADU separate from the duplex. Make separate parking arrangements. Utility connections should be freely available. Exterior stairs should be safe and strong.

Multifamily properties

  • Attached:  It is necessary to follow special safety standards for connected ADUs in multi-storey buildings. The way to emergency evacuation should be clear. There should be easy access to elevators and stairs. All utility connections must be separate.
  • Detached:  There should be independent parking for separate ADU in the multi-storey complex. Maintain proper distance from the main building. Enhance the beauty with landscaping. Provide the facility of security guard.

Junior ADUs (JADUs)

The size of the junior ADU should be less than five hundred square feet. It is constructed inside the main house. Shared arrangement of the kitchen is allowed. It is necessary to have separate entrances. The electricity connection can be connected to the main house.

Property Designations

Property Designations

  • Flood Zones: ADUs should be constructed at a height in flood-affected areas. Make proper drainage arrangements. Use flood-resistant material. Plan an emergency evacuation. Ensure insurance coverage.
  • Geohazard Zones: Use special construction techniques in earthquake prone areas. The foundation must be strong. There should be no risk of landslides. It is necessary to conduct a geotechnical survey. Strictly follow safety standards.
  • Historic Designation: Take special permission to build ADUs in buildings of historical importance. Retain the original architecture. Clearance from the Department of Archaeology is necessary. Choose construction materials carefully. Preserve the heritage of the building.
  • Easements: Cannot make ADUs on a place left for public use. Respect the utility instrument. Do not obstruct the neighbor’s way. Check the legal documents. Clarify the boundary line.

Pre-Approved Mission Hills ADUs

Some ADU designs are already approved in Mission Hills. Selecting these designs speeds up the permit process.  The scope for change in the pre-approved design is limited. Construction costs can be estimated in advance. Saves time and money.

ADU Builders CA has several pre-approved designs available. Our team will help choose the most suitable design to suit your needs. Quality construction material is used. Timely completion of work is guaranteed. There are options available to suit the budget.

Start Your ADU Project Today!

Start your ADU project in Mission Hills today.  The expert team at ADU Builders CA will guide you. Contact us for a free consultation. We will help you realize the ADU of your dreams. Guaranteed quality construction and on-time delivery.

FAQs

Yes, ADUs must adhere to design guidelines that ensure the unit complements the primary residence and fits within the neighborhood’s aesthetic.

Generally, only one ADU and one Junior ADU (JADU) are allowed per property in Mission Hills.

Yes, you can build an ADU above your garage, but it must comply with height, parking, and setback requirements.

ADUs generally require one off-street parking space, though this requirement can be waived if the property is near public transportation.

Yes, ADUs can be built on smaller lots as long as they meet the minimum lot size and zoning regulations.

If your property is in a flood zone, you must comply with additional floodproofing and FEMA regulations when building an ADU.

Environmental regulations may apply depending on the location of your property, especially if it’s in an environmentally sensitive area.

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