ADU Architect Serving Tacoma & Pierce County

How I Work With Tacoma ADU Clients

Feasibility Analysis First

We start with what's possible, not what's pretty.

I verify city sewer availability, evaluate existing structures against building code, map setback constraints, and identify permitting requirements. You get a clear answer: what's buildable, what it takes to get there, and realistic costs.

No time or money wasted designing something that can't be permitted.

Design With Building Code in Mind

ADU design isn't about architectural vision—it's about code compliance with good spatial planning.

I design for how the space will actually be used, meet all building code requirements without over-engineering, coordinate egress, fire separation, and accessibility requirements, and keep costs reasonable through buildable detailing.

Permitting Navigation

Tacoma building code, fire code, and land use regulations all apply to ADUs. They don't always align cleanly.

I prepare permit-ready drawings that address all code requirements, respond to plan review comments efficiently, and coordinate with city inspectors to avoid delays.

Construction Phase Support

I stay involved as your ADU gets built.

Details matter when fire-rated assemblies, egress requirements, and energy code compliance are being installed. I review contractor submittals, respond to field questions, and verify code-critical details during construction.

Common Tacoma ADU Mistakes

Mistake 1: Designing before understanding building code requirements

The constraint isn't lot size or setbacks. It's building code compliance.

Fire separation requirements, egress standards, and ceiling height minimums drive ADU feasibility—not architectural creativity. Design without understanding these requirements, and you'll redesign multiple times during permitting.

Mistake 2: Assuming garage conversion is simpler than new construction

Garages were built as accessory structures, not residences.

Bringing them up to residential building code requires fire-rated walls, proper foundation systems, compliant egress, updated electrical service, insulation and ventilation meeting energy code, and often structural modifications.

The cost frequently exceeds new construction—without the flexibility of designing for optimal livability.

Mistake 3: Not planning for city utility requirements

Every ADU needs separate utility connections: separate water meter and sewer connection, individual electrical panel, gas service if applicable.

City development fees, system development charges, and utility installation costs add up. Budget for them early.

Who This Approach Works Best For

This works if you're planning an ADU on:

• Constrained urban lot where buildable area is limited

• Property with existing structure you're considering converting

• Waterfront property with additional shoreline setback requirements

• Property where building code compliance is uncertain

This approach prevents expensive mistakes by establishing feasibility before committing to design costs.

Tacoma vs. Unincorporated Pierce County

Different jurisdictions, different rules.

City of Tacoma properties:

• Most on city sewer (not septic)

• 1,000 sf maximum OR 40% of combined total

• 18-foot height limit

• 3-5 month permit timeline (standard projects)

Unincorporated Pierce County properties:

• Often on septic (capacity analysis required)

• 1,000 sf minimum required by state law

• 24-foot height limit minimum

• 6-10 month permit timeline (especially waterfront)

Your property's jurisdiction determines which regulations apply. I help you navigate the correct requirements for your specific location.

Questions About Your Tacoma ADU?

Schedule a feasibility consultation. We'll discuss your property, review constraints, and determine whether an ADU makes sense for your situation.

No pressure. Just clear information about what's possible.