California Construction News staff writer
The City of Modesto has changed zoning restrictions and launched a special revolving loan fund to make constructing an Accessory Dwelling Unit easier and cheaper.
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) have become a critical part of the housing stock of a community. They can be detached, attached or created from the conversion of existing space, such as a garage.
Passed by the Modesto City Council, the zoning code amendment brings Modesto’s municipal code in line with recent changes to State law governing ADUs.
At the same time, a partnership with Valley First Credit Union (VFCU) will make financing construction of an ADU easier. Administered by VFCU, a $450,000 Revolving Loan Fund will provide loans up to $50,000 at fixed interest rates up to five points below Wall Street Prime Rate and fixed terms up to 120 months
The city will also provide free building plans for ADUs. Stanislaus County, in partnership with the cities of Ceres, Modesto, Oakdale, Riverbank, Turlock, and Waterford have developed seven different ADU plans for detached new construction, each with multiple options for exterior finishes, available for free to property owners.
Check out the steps to planning an ADU from start to finish.
