Building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) with the PRADU Program
Thinking of adding an ADU or constructing a small home on your property?
The PRADU Program can help! This program offers pre-approved building plans for ADUs, saving you time and money on initial design and review. This guide will walk you through the steps to get construction plans and a building permit.
1. ADU or Primary Dwelling? The model base plans may be used to construct an ADU or a stand-alone primary dwelling. If you plan to add an ADU to your property, please review the ADU development standards.
2. To obtain construction plans, download an application packet for your preferred plan and submit a preliminary application.
CEDAR Application Packet (364 sf, studio)
HEMLOCK Application Packet (400 sf, studio)
SPRUCE Application Packet (600 sf, one-bedroom)
ALDER Application Packet (640 sf, one-bedroom, accessible)
2. Once you have construction plans, gather additional information, including:
- Utilities: Contact the Public Works Department (907-772-4430) and Power & Light (907-772-4203) to extend utilities (water, sewer, power) to your dwelling. If the property is not located within the municipal water/sewer area, you'll need approval from the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation for an on-site septic system.
- Foundation Plan: Since every property is unique, you'll need a foundation plan specific to your site. The PRADU plan provides a foundation framing guide, and your contractor may be able to help create the final plan.
- Site Plan: This is a drawing showing the ADU/dwelling's location on your property and its distance to property lines and other structures. A guide for creating a site plan is available.
4. Application review: Once you have all the information submitted, your application will be reviewed by various departments (Community Development, Power & Light, Public Works, and Fire).
5. Permit issuance and construction: Upon successful review, you'll receive a building permit covering construction, plumbing, electrical, and utility connections. Post the permit at the construction site. You can then begin construction, and upon completion of all inspections, occupy your new dwelling!
Additional notes:
- Hiring a contractor can be helpful for creating foundation and site plans, and assisting with the application process.
- The permit covers all aspects of construction (foundation, electrical, plumbing, deck, etc.)
By following these steps and utilizing the PRADU program's plans, you can streamline the process of building your ADU and save time and money.
