Introduction
Garage conversions in Woodside provide a fantastic way to create extra living space without the need for a costly extension. By converting your garage, you can add a new room to your home that can serve as a guest suite, home office, or even a rental unit. This not only increases the functionality of your home but also potentially adds value to your property.
Essential Garage Conversion Rules for Woodside
What you can build
Maximum Size
The converted garage can be up to 600 square feet, ensuring ample space for various uses.
Side/rear setbacks
A minimum setback of 5 feet from the side and rear property lines is required.
Height limit
The height of the converted garage should not exceed 16 feet.
Building separation
There should be at least 10 feet of separation between the converted garage and any other structures.
Permitting Process Timeline
Standard
The permitting process typically takes about 30 days for a standard review.
Historic Property review
If your property is historic, expect the review process to take approximately 60 days.
Zoning Regulations in Woodside
The rules for garage conversions in Woodside depend on zoning regulations.
Garage Conversion Size Limitations:
| Zoning District | Maximum Floor Area Allowed |
| R-1 (Single Family) | 600 square feet |
| R-2 (Two Family) | 800 square feet |
| R-3 (Multifamily) | 1,000 square feet |
| R-4 (Neighborhood Mixed Use) | 1,200 square feet |
Height Limitations
The maximum height allowed for a converted garage is 16 feet to ensure it fits within the residential scale.
Building Coverage
The total building coverage should not exceed 40% of the lot area.
Location
| Property Type | Location Requirement |
| Single-Family Homes | Must be behind the main house |
| Duplex | Can be adjacent to the main units |
| Multifamily | Should be integrated within the existing structure |
Exterior details
The exterior of the converted garage must match the primary residence in color and style.
Setbacks and Buffer Zones
Maintain a 5-foot setback from property lines to provide a buffer zone.
Minimum Lot Area
Connection for Utilities
The converted garage must be connected to the main utilities of the property.
Fire safety
Fire safety measures such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers are mandatory.
Room specifications
- Living Area: The living area should be at least 200 square feet to provide a comfortable space.
- Kitchen: A kitchenette with a small sink, refrigerator, and microwave is required.
- Bathroom: The bathroom should include a shower, toilet, and sink.
- Ceiling Height: The ceiling height must be a minimum of 7 feet to meet building codes.
Short-term Rentals and Home Occupations Regulations
Certain rules apply to short-term rentals and home-based businesses in Woodside.
Building Codes
The converted garage must meet all local building codes, including electrical and plumbing standards.
Woodside Garage Conversion Permit Guidelines
| Permit Type | Description | Estimated Fee |
| Building Permit | Required for structural changes | $500 |
| Electrical Permit | Needed for any electrical work | $150 |
| Plumbing Permit | Required for plumbing installations | $200 |
| Mechanical Permit | Necessary for HVAC systems | $300 |
| Planning Review | Ensures compliance with local codes | $100 |
Property Requirements
The property must be zoned for residential use to qualify for a garage conversion.
Parking
Off-street parking must be maintained for the main residence.
Front Setbacks
A front setback of at least 20 feet is required.
Side and Rear Setbacks
A minimum of 5 feet from the side and rear property lines.
Open Space and Rear Yards
At least 15% of the lot must remain as open space.
Properties That Qualify
Only properties with a minimum lot size of 5,000 square feet are eligible.
Development Standards
Single-family Homes
Must maintain the residential character and match the exterior design of the main house.
Multi-family Properties
Can include up to two converted garages per property.
Duplex Properties
Each unit in a duplex can have its own converted garage.
Property Designations
- Flood Zones: Properties in flood zones must adhere to additional safety regulations.
- Easements: No building is allowed on designated easements.
- Historic Properties: Conversions on historic properties require additional review and approval.
Summary
Converting a garage in Woodside is a practical way to add extra living space and increase your property’s value. With clear regulations and guidelines, homeowners can transform their unused garages into functional, attractive living areas.
FAQs
Converting your garage in Woodside can provide numerous benefits, including creating additional living space for a growing family, accommodating guests, or even generating rental income. Moreover, a garage conversion can enhance the overall functionality of your home, offering a versatile area that can be tailored to meet your specific needs.
The time it takes to obtain a permit for a garage conversion in Woodside can vary. Typically, the standard permitting process takes about 30 days. However, if your property is located in a historic district, the review process may take longer, potentially up to 60 days.
Yes, you can convert your garage into a rental unit in Woodside. This can be a great way to generate additional income. However, you must ensure that the converted garage meets all local building codes and zoning regulations. This includes obtaining the necessary permits, adhering to setback requirements, and ensuring the unit is safe and habitable.
Yes, converting your garage in Woodside requires several permits. These typically include a building permit for structural changes, an electrical permit for any electrical work, a plumbing permit for plumbing installations, and a planning review to ensure compliance with local zoning and building codes.
The maximum size allowed for a garage conversion in Woodside depends on the zoning district of your property. For single-family homes (R-1), the maximum size is typically 600 square feet. For two-family homes (R-2), it can be up to 800 square feet. Multifamily properties (R-3) may allow up to 1,000 square feet, and neighborhood mixed-use areas (R-4) can go up to 1,200 square feet.
Yes, there are height restrictions for garage conversions in Woodside. The maximum height allowed for a converted garage is typically 16 feet. This limitation helps to ensure that the new structure fits well within the residential scale of the neighborhood and does not overpower the existing buildings.
Yes, you can convert your garage if your property is in a historic district in Woodside, but there are additional requirements. Historic properties often need extra review and approval to ensure that any modifications preserve the historical integrity and character of the area.
In Woodside, the exterior of your converted garage must match the primary residence in terms of color, materials, and architectural style. This requirement helps to maintain a cohesive and attractive appearance for your property and the surrounding neighborhood.
Yes, you need to maintain off-street parking for your main residence even after converting your garage in Woodside. This requirement ensures that there is adequate parking available for residents and visitors, helping to minimize street congestion.
Your converted garage in Woodside must be connected to the main utilities, including water, electricity, and sewage systems. Proper utility connections are essential to ensure that the new living space is functional, safe, and comfortable. This includes installing electrical outlets, plumbing fixtures, and ensuring that the sewage system is properly connected to avoid any potential issues.
Fire safety is a critical aspect of any garage conversion in Woodside. You must install smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and possibly a fire sprinkler system, depending on local regulations. These measures help to protect the occupants and the property in case of a fire emergency.
Yes, you can convert your garage into a home office in Woodside. This can be a practical solution to create a dedicated workspace separate from the main living areas. Your garage conversion must meet all local building codes and zoning regulations, including obtaining the necessary permits and ensuring the space is safe and habitable.
In Woodside, a minimum setback of 5 feet from the side and rear property lines is typically required for a garage conversion. Setbacks help to maintain adequate space between structures, ensuring privacy and allowing for proper ventilation and light.
Yes, there are lot size requirements for a garage conversion in Woodside. Generally, the minimum lot size for a garage conversion is 5,000 square feet. This requirement ensures that there is enough space to accommodate the new living area while maintaining open space and meeting setback regulations.
Yes, you can rent out your converted garage on a short-term basis in Woodside, but you must comply with local regulations regarding short-term rentals. This includes obtaining any necessary permits, adhering to zoning laws, and meeting safety and habitability standards.
For a garage conversion in Woodside, the kitchen should include basic amenities such as a small sink, refrigerator, and microwave. These features provide a functional kitchenette suitable for daily use. Ensuring that the kitchen area is well-designed and equipped can enhance the usability of the converted space, making it suitable for various purposes, including guest accommodations or a rental unit.
Yes, a planning review approval is required for a garage conversion in Woodside. This review ensures that your project complies with local zoning and building codes, including design, safety, and environmental standards.
Yes, specific requirements must be met for bathroom facilities in a Woodside garage conversion. The bathroom should include a shower, toilet, and sink, meeting all plumbing and building codes. Proper ventilation, waterproofing, and accessibility standards must also be adhered to.
Yes, you can convert your garage if it’s located in a flood zone in Woodside, but you must adhere to additional safety regulations. These may include elevating the floor level, using flood-resistant materials, and ensuring proper drainage to minimize flood risk.
The ceiling height for a garage conversion in Woodside must be a minimum of 7 feet to meet building codes. This height ensures adequate headroom, providing a comfortable and spacious environment for the converted space.
