Long Beach is accelerating the ADU construction journey for homeowners with the launch of its Pre-Approved Accessory Dwelling Unit Program (PAADU). This innovative initiative provides standardized designs and construction plans for accessory dwelling units (ADUs), aiming to simplify the building process and increase the city’s housing options.
The PAADU program, first proposed by Eighth District Representative Al Austin and approved by the City Council in January 2022, offers pre-approved project plans for residential, free-standing, and single-story ADUs that are 1,200 square feet or smaller. This move is expected to decrease builders’ costs and shorten the ADU construction timeline.
Why PAADU?
- Streamlined Construction: PAADU simplifies the ADU construction process, helping local developers and homeowners save time and effort.
- Boosting Housing Production: PAADU supports Long Beach’s goal of constructing over 26,000 new housing units by 2029, more than half of which will be dedicated to low- and moderate-income residents.
- Affordability and Convenience: As Mayor Rex Richardson noted, the program can significantly benefit homeowners by making ADU construction more affordable and convenient.
- Reduced Processing Time: PAADU slashes the time needed to develop ADU architectural and structural plans by one to three months and allows same-day review of pre-approved plans instead of the standard four-to-six week processing time.
Currently, four pre-approved plans are available on the Development Services Department’s website, with another three soon to be added. Each design caters to different needs – “The Sevilla” is an 800-square foot, one-story ADU with a patio cover option, while “The Casita” provides plans for a 415-square foot, one-story unit.
Currently, four pre-approved plans are available on the Development Services Department’s website, with another three soon to be added. Each design caters to different needs – “The Sevilla” is an 800-square foot, one-story ADU with a patio cover option, while “The Casita” provides plans for a 415-square foot, one-story unit.
As Austin stated in the announcement, the new program can be transformational for homeowners who may find creating an ADU from scratch overwhelming or financially challenging. Well-designed ADUs can significantly contribute to addressing immediate housing needs in Long Beach.
Intrigued to discover if your property has potential for an ADU? Don’t forget to use The ADU Guide’s free ADU property check. Get started today and let us help you navigate the world of ADUs, home additions, and increased property value.
For more details about the currently available pre-approved ADU designs, visit the Development Services Department website.
Source: Kristy Hutchings – PressTelegram
