Programs and Resources

Resources

Santa Clara County Collaborative - Santa Clara County ADU

Santa Clara County ADU is a new program offering free resources to help residents through the entire process of building an ADU in Santa Clara County. By encouraging the development of ADUs, our communities can build new homes for our neighbors, children, and grandparents, and help our region thrive. Santa Clara County ADU is one of many efforts of the Santa Clara County Planning Collaborative–a shared initiative among all the jurisdictions in Santa Clara County to help ensure that everyone in the County has access to a safe, secure, and affordable home.

Visit aduscc.org

Getting Started

These resources will help you learn more about ADUs, what is possible on your property, and how to get started:

• SCC ADU Website: Look at floorplans, hear from neighbors about what they built, and download the free ADU Guidebook.
• ADU Process & Important Information: See an overview of the ADU process and things to consider.
• Local ADU Rules: Learn about the ADU rules and regulations and find contact information for local departments and staff.
• ADU Glossary: Explore frequently used terms.
• ADU Calculator: Estimate potential building costs, rent, and return on investment.

To Download entire booklet, please click on image below.

ADU Guide Book

CA Dept of Housing and Community Development

CA Dept of Housing and Community Development Accessory Dwelling Units

Technical Assistance Booklet

Information for cities, counties, other local government bodies, and homeowners interested in adding an accessory dwelling unit to their property.

Download the ADU Technical Assistance Booklet or select one of the following excerpts:

• Understanding ADUs and Their Importance
• Summary of Recent Changes to Accessory Dwelling Unit Laws
• Frequently Asked Questions: Accessory Dwelling Units
• Frequently Asked Questions: Junior Accessory Dwelling Units
• State Standards Checklist

Housing Trust Silicon Valley Small Homes, Big Impact Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Program

Small Homes, Big Impact is a new pilot program from Housing Trust offering free educational workshops and financial assistance to homeowners seeking to build a secondary dwelling – commonly known as an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) – in their backyard.

Watch an hour-long highlight video of the HTSV ADU Workshop led by local ADU practitioners (land use consultants, builders, design professionals, architects, lenders etc.) -- a teaser to the free, full-day, live ADU Workshop.

The workshops intend to answer the following five questions:

1. Can I build an ADU on my site?
2. How do I get a permit to build an ADU?
3. How do I hire a builder and manage construction?
4. How do I pay for an ADU?
5. I’m a landlord, now what?

The workshops are led by local ADU Practitioners (land use consultants, builders, designers, architects, lenders etc.) during a half day course, typically on a Saturday.

The financial assistance program is currently being developed, it will consist of a planning grant and a construction loan. Products will be available in early 2019, register for more information.

Home for All: San Mateo County Resource Center

Second units, backyard cottages, garage apartments, ADUs, or granny flats – no matter what you call them, it’s now easier than ever to build them in San Mateo County. Visit the Second Unit Resource Center for ideas/stories/photos, information on how to build an ADU, and don't forget to checkout the Second Unit Calculator to see typical costs and rents.