Build beyond the maximum square footage?

Question

I’m looking to build a custom home in the Bay Area. I have an amazing lot identified that I was ready to pull the trigger on. Unfortunately during my due diligence phase, I learned the maximum square footage allowed on this lot is 2400 sqft (including the garage). 7900 square foot lot, 30% max or 2400 sqft, whichever is greater.

This was quite disappointing because a 2,000 square foot house is too small for our forever home.

Does anyone have any creative ideas to go beyond this? I’m looking into the new ADU rules to see if they can help.

Jeremy

Jared W Smith · Answer

How did you come to the 2400 SF quantity? Is this maximum gross SF including EVERYTHING? You may want to retain an architect (or ask your architect). Here in NY, the Code eliminates several spaces which are not calculated in the habitable SF calculations. Basement, boiler room, storage, even closets and means of circulation (stairs) are not counted towards habitable square footage calculations. This could be the difference of a few hundred SF in your favor. Account Closed

Frank Robinson · Answer

@Jared W Smith very interesting.  I am in contract on a MF up in Poughkeepsie - Dutchess County NY and considering future re-development potential.  50 x 200 Lot with existing 2400/SF 3 Fam dwelling + 3650/Sf 16 Bay Garage - R2A zone.  I will connect with you as trying to understand highest and best use.

Parker Eberhard · Answer

@Laura Blair if the designer knows the applicable codes

Laura Blair · Answer

The ADU won't count towards the floor area ratio.  San Jose adopted new rules in December that comply with the new 2020 state of California code.

Matthew Forrest · Answer

Account Closed I went to a Meetup earlier this week and heard a presentation from  an architect on a panel that spoke about exactly what you want to do. She was using an ADU to built a larger custom home on a small lot in Hermosa Beach. If you want her contact info please message me!

Account Closed · Answer

@Jared W Smith good point. I’ll double check with the architect (once I hire them), but from my interpretation of the code and after talking to various people, they are pretty strict. The ADU should help a bit.

Account Closed · Answer

@Matthew Forrest that would be awesome! Thanks!

Account Closed · Answer

@Zab Khan no, the max lot coverage is 25% but total square footage cannot exceed 30% of 2400sqft.

Jared W Smith · Answer

More than happy to take a look at it. Send me a private message and we can connect further.

Eric Hrlbock · Answer

Is that off 44   I looked at one off 44 a couple years ago

Build beyond the maximum square footage?

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