In an effort to accelerate housing construction throughout California, the State legislature passed a series of laws to encourage Accessory Dwelling units (ADU's) in single family and multi-family neighborhoods. ADU's give residents the opportunity to provide additional dwelling space for growing families and as a form of additional income. The City of McFarland responded to the State's direction by incorporating an ADU ordinance that is consistent with State law and has provided additional information to assist residents along their route to development. 

What are ADU'S?

ADU is also known as a secondary dwelling unit, mother-in-law, or granny flat. It’s an attached or detached residential dwelling unit that contains everything for an independent living. This includes a small kitchen, bathroom facilities, and living area/sleeping area. ADU/JADU’s do not have direct access to the main home. The average square footage can range from 400 sq. ft. to up to 1,200 sq. ft. 

What are JADU's?

 JADU is also known as a Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit or Junior Additional Dwelling Unit. A JADU is an attached small housing unit up to 500 sq. ft. JADU is created by converting a part of an existing residence, existing structure, or a garage. JADU is attached to a single-family home or to the new ADU. It is a spare room or garage converted into a separate living space with a bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom. It must have a separate entrance from the existing single-family dwelling.

Additional ADU Information

ADU Ordinance: McFarland ADU Ordinance

California ADU Handbook: HCD ADU Handbook

Planning Application: Master Uniform Application

Building Permit Application: Building Application

Fee Schedule: 2024 Fee Schedule

Pre-Approved ADU plans:

In an effort to provide a fast and cost-effective option, the City of McFarland is providing the option of using the following pre-approved detached ADU plans - Kern County Pre-Approved Plans. 

Some site-specific design work will be necessary, but these pre-approved plans aim to help property owners reduce costs and time.