Would like to know what is allowed and what is prohibited. At what point does a room attached to a two-car garage become a living space and potentially not allowed. I have seen many garages with small offices. Can one add a sink to the office? How about a separate bathroom with a shower. What is the threshold before a permit won’t be approved?
Mother coming to live with us is driving these questions. Ideally I would build a two-car garage with an attached room large enough for a double bed and 3/4 bathroom.[/quote]
Good info. Exactly my situation. But I’m looking in the La Mesa Area and I’m very worried about the “separate space” issue and may need to build something in order to accommodate her.[/quote]
All of your answers are at the city building department. You can view on line but it may be faster to simply drop by and ask. Some have printed pages at the counter.
The main difference between an granny flat and an accessory building is habitation. ( will you sleep, cook inside )
Each with different regulations concerning setback, sq ft, sewer size, even roof pitch! etc.
For habitation you need a 4″ sewer connection. An accessory building is allowed water with an 1 1/2″ sewer only. ( to prevent installing a toilet )
And Brian, … keep in mind that there are people in the insurance business who’s career is to say no and get bonuses for denying claims, thus saving the company $$. House build before code example is apples to oranges.
