Collection of FAQs
If your property is outside of a sewer service district, you will need to find out if your septic system will meet Humboldt County Health Department requirements when adding an ADU to your property. You may have to increase your …
Are there water or sewer issues I should consider? Read more »
If you are following the traditional permit process and your project meets the county standards (no Special Permit is needed), then you will only need a building permit. Humboldt County also has an Alternative Owner-Builder (AOB) Program, which is especially …
What building permits are required for ADUs, JADUs, Tiny Homes, and Movable Tiny Homes? Read more »
The county owns sets of pre-approved ADU plans and is considering expanding their library which could save you time and money with the design and permitting process. Click here to view the plans or contact a county planner to learn …
Most homeowners choose to work with some type of design professional to plan their ADU and help throughout the process. Bringing on a professional early in the process is often key to getting your ADU approved quickly, managed efficiently and …
Adding an ADU will likely affect your property taxes and the resale value of your home. However, your primary house will not be reassessed, and your property taxes will only increase based on the added value of your ADU. For …
How will building an ADU affect my taxes and property value? Read more »
Many homeowners use a mix of options to finance their ADU, including their own savings and assets, funds from family, and/or loans. Be sure to consider potential rental income when deciding how to finance your ADU. It will be a …
The ADU Calculator is a great place to start when developing a budget. It provides a rough estimate of costs and income and will help you understand how choices can impact your budget over time. In general, it is helpful …
Humboldt County does not require homeowners to live on their property if it includes an ADU. However, both state and county laws require owner occupancy for JADUs.
Building an ADU is not only a financial investment, but an investment of time. Most projects take one to two years to complete. Typically, it takes homeowners one to three months to get started and assemble their team, then one …
ADUs located within a county identified zone that restricts development may need to go through an additional Special Permit process, such as outside a Fire Protection District or within an Airport Overlay District. Use the Humboldt County Web GIS Tool …
