Frequently Asked Questions

Yes in most cases. In the City of Monterey, a building permit is not required only when a deck is under 200 sq. ft., is 30 inches or less above grade, is not attached to the home, and does not serve an exit door. Anything beyond that needs a permit and plan submittal. Monterey
In unincorporated Monterey County, decks are typically permitted; many projects under 1,000 sq. ft. fall under the County’s “Minor Permit” program, which streamlines plan review but still requires approval. Palacios Construction handles the checklist, drawings, and permit coordination for you. County of Monterey

Yes. California expanded ADU rules again in 2025 to reduce barriers. The state’s updated HCD ADU Handbook (Jan 2025) explains the current standards and timelines that local jurisdictions must follow. California Housing Dept.Housing & Community Development Committee
For Monterey County, current guidance notes typical allowances such as 4-foot side/rear setbacks and up to 16-foot height for certain detached ADUs, with additional provisions to ensure at least an 800 sq. ft. ADU is feasible. Palacios Construction designs to these rules and manages the planning and building permit steps. County of Monterey
If your property is in the Coastal Zone, extra review can apply (Coastal Development Permit). We flag this early and sequence Coastal + Building approvals together to keep your project moving. Municode Library

Many neighborhoods around Monterey, Pacific Grove, Carmel, Pebble Beach, Seaside, and Marina map into Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZ). Use CAL FIRE’s official viewer to check an address. If you’re in a mapped zone, Chapter 7A ember-resistant construction (vents, roofing, gutters, siding, decks) may apply to new builds and certain additions/alterations, and 100 feet of defensible space is required where flammable vegetation exists. Palacios designs with compliant materials and details and coordinates defensible-space steps so approvals go smoothly. Office of the State Fire MarshalCalifornia Housing Dept.Fire Safe Council For Monterey County

Yes, most kitchen/bath remodels in the City of Monterey require a building permit—especially if we move or add plumbing, electrical, mechanical, or structural elements. The City even has a Kitchen & Bath Express checklist we submit to speed things up. Palacios Construction handles the paperwork and submittals for you. Monterey+1 siding, decks) may apply to new builds and certain additions/alterations, and 100 feet of defensible space is required where flammable vegetation exists. Palacios designs with compliant materials and details and coordinates defensible-space steps so approvals go smoothly. Office of the State Fire MarshalCalifornia Housing Dept.Fire Safe Council For Monterey County

Bathroom remodel costs can vary a lot depending on the size of the bathroom, the age of the home, the materials selected, and how much work is involved behind the walls. In Monterey County, most full bathroom remodels typically range anywhere from 35k for budget friendly bathrooms to 60k+ for more custom or higher-end finishes. Older homes can also add cost due to outdated plumbing, electrical, or framing that needs to be corrected. We always walk the space, discuss goals, and provide a clear, detailed proposal so there are no surprises.

Most bathroom remodels take anywhere from 3 to 6 weeks from start to finish, depending on the scope of work. A simple refresh can be quicker, while a full gut remodel with layout changes, plumbing, and inspections can take longer. We schedule trades carefully and communicate throughout the process to keep things moving and avoid unnecessary delays.

Absolutely. Many clients choose to keep the existing layout and update everything else like tile, vanity, shower, fixtures, and finishes. This can help control costs and timeline while still giving you a completely updated look. We’ll let you know what makes sense based on your goals and the condition of the existing layout.

A full bathroom remodel typically includes demolition, new plumbing and electrical as needed, new shower or tub, waterproofing, tile, vanity, countertops, fixtures, lighting, ventilation, drywall, texture, paint, and finish work. Every project is different, so we provide a detailed scope of work that clearly outlines exactly what is included in your specific remodel.

Yes, and we do it often. Many homes in Monterey, Pacific Grove, and surrounding areas are older and come with their own challenges. We frequently uncover old plumbing, outdated wiring, poor framing, or water damage. We know how to handle these situations properly and will always communicate any findings and options before moving forward.

Yes. We work with vetted licensed plumbers and electricians and coordinate all trades as part of the project. You don’t have to hire or manage multiple contractors. We handle scheduling, inspections, and quality control so everything is done correctly and to code.

We can absolutely help guide you with layout, functionality, and finish selections. Many clients already have ideas or inspiration, and we help refine them and make sure they work in the real world. If a full designer is needed for a more custom project, we can also coordinate with one. Either way, we’ll help you through the process.

The most common issues we see are water damage, rot, mold, outdated plumbing, ungrounded electrical, and improper framing. These are especially common in older homes. We always inspect as we go and communicate any issues we find so you understand what’s going on and can make informed decisions.

In most cases, yes. Bathrooms are one of the highest return areas in a home. An updated, clean, well-designed bathroom is a big selling point and improves both comfort and resale value. Beyond value, most clients remodel because they want the space to function better and feel better to use every day.

In most cases, yes. In Monterey County and the surrounding cities, a bathroom remodel will require permits if any plumbing, electrical, ventilation, or structural work is involved. This includes things like changing or relocating plumbing, adding or moving outlets or lighting, installing a new vent fan, converting a tub to a shower, or modifying walls. If the work is strictly cosmetic, such as replacing tile, a vanity in the same location, or fixtures without altering plumbing or electrical, a permit may not be required. That said, many homes in this area are older, and once walls are opened, permit requirements are often triggered. We review the scope up front and handle permits when needed so everything is done correctly and to local code.

ADU costs vary quite a bit depending on size, type, site conditions, utility needs, and finishes, but a good rule of thumb in California right now is roughly $200 – $400 per square foot for most new ADUs, with the mid-range often around $300 – $400 per square foot when you include construction, trades, and standard finishes. Smaller units or conversions (like garage conversions) can be less per square foot, and high-end or very complex ADUs can run above that range.

Yes. Both ADUs and additions require permits and inspections. This includes building, electrical, plumbing, and sometimes mechanical permits. Each city has its own process, but all require approved plans before construction can begin. We handle the permit process and coordination with the local planning and building department.

An ADU is a separate living unit with its own kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area. An addition expands the existing home and is accessed from inside the house. Both add square footage, but ADUs are considered independent living spaces, while additions are part of the main home.

In most cases, yes, but it depends on zoning, lot size, setbacks, parking requirements, and utility availability. Each city has its own rules, and some coastal or historic areas have additional restrictions. We review your property and local regulations to confirm what is allowed before moving forward.

From start to finish, ADUs and additions can take several months. Design and permits alone can take time, especially in this area. Once construction starts, timelines depend on size, complexity, inspections, and weather. We set realistic schedules and keep you informed throughout the process.

ADU size is regulated by state law and local zoning rules. Most properties allow up to 800 square feet, and some allow larger depending on the lot and layout. Setbacks, coverage limits, and access all play a role. We review your property to determine the maximum allowable size.

In many cases, yes. Some ADUs can tie into existing services, but others require upgrades or separate connections. In Monterey County, water and sewer capacity can be a major factor, and credits or fees may apply. We help navigate these requirements and coordinate with the appropriate agencies.

Yes, garage conversions are very common and often the most efficient way to build an ADU. The structure still needs to meet current code, and utilities, insulation, and egress must be addressed. We inspect the existing garage and let you know what upgrades will be required.

In most cases, yes. Adding livable square footage, especially with an ADU, can significantly increase property value and appeal. ADUs also offer rental income potential or flexible space for family. Additions improve the main living area and overall functionality of the home.

Yes. Each city has its own zoning rules, setbacks, parking requirements, and design guidelines. Some neighborhoods also have coastal or historic overlays. We review all applicable regulations so there are no surprises during the approval process.

Yes. Both ADUs and additions require approved plans before permits can be issued. This includes floor plans, elevations, and structural details. We work with designers and engineers as needed and coordinate the entire plan and submittal process.

Older homes often have outdated plumbing, electrical, foundations, or framing that need to be upgraded. We also commonly run into limited access, tight setbacks, and utility constraints. We identify these early and communicate clearly so you can make informed decisions.

Yes. Many clients build ADUs for long-term rental, family members, or future flexibility. The intended use can affect design and layout, so we discuss your goals early to make sure the ADU is built to fit your needs.

It starts with a site visit and conversation about your goals. From there, we review zoning, utilities, and feasibility, then move into design, budgeting, and permits. Once everything is approved, we schedule construction and take it through to completion.

In Monterey, the water math is done through MPWMD fixture units. A typical “full bath” added from scratch is usually about 4.3 fixture units if you use a high-efficiency toilet (1.3) + one lav (1) + a standard shower (2). If you choose different fixtures (like an older 1.6 gpf toilet at 1.8, or a large tub at 3), the fixture unit total goes up.

As far as buying water: the City of Monterey states it does not have water credits available for allocation, and projects are limited to the credits/fixture capacity tied to the specific site (plus certain protocols/wait lists). For official info, the best place to start is Monterey’s Water Availability page and MPWMD’s permit office site.
Monterey Water Availability: https://monterey.org/city_hall/departments/community_development/water_availability.php
MPWMD Water Permits: https://www.mpwmd.net/water-permits

The same MPWMD fixture-unit math applies as it does in Monterey. A typical added full bath is commonly about 4.3 fixture units (HET toilet 1.3 + lav 1 + shower 2).

Pacific Grove is different from Monterey because Pacific Grove has a program where potable water is available for sale and you can apply to purchase credits/entitlement through the City. The City’s water credit page (and their “Water Credit Sale Process” docs) outline the application steps and where to submit.
Pacific Grove Water Credits: https://www.cityofpacificgrove.org/our_city/departments/building___engineering/water_credits.php

The fixture-unit math is still the same baseline: a typical added full bath is often about 4.3 fixture units with efficient fixtures (HET toilet 1.3 + lav 1 + shower 2).

For buying water in Carmel, the City’s Planning FAQ specifically says water entitlement is available to purchase from Malpaso Water Company and points you to their process.
Carmel Planning FAQ (Water Info): https://ci.carmel.ca.us/planning-faq
Malpaso Water Company: https://www.malpasowater.com

An ADU usually triggers water review because you’re adding fixtures. MPWMD is clear that the fixture units needed vary based on what fixtures are existing and what you’re adding.

But to give homeowners a clean planning example using MPWMD’s published numbers: a very common ADU setup (1 bath + kitchen + laundry) can land around 7.8 to 10.3 fixture units, depending on efficiency choices. Here are two common examples based on the table:

Efficient package (~7.8 FU): lav 1 + shower 2 + HET toilet 1.3 + kitchen sink with adjacent high-eff dishwasher 1.5 + high-eff clothes washer 1
More standard package (~10.3 FU): lav 1 + shower 2 + HET toilet 1.3 + kitchen sink 2 + clothes washer 2

Monterey specifically is limited by what your site already has (the City says no credits available for allocation), while Pacific Grove and Carmel have purchase paths (PG city sale program; Carmel via Malpaso).

MPWMD Fixture Unit Table: https://www.mpwmd.net/fixture-unit-values
Pacific Grove Water Credits: https://www.cityofpacificgrove.org/our_city/departments/building___engineering/water_credits.php
Carmel Water Info: https://ci.carmel.ca.us/planning-faq

SB 326 applies to condominium associations and HOAs. SB 721 applies to apartment buildings with three or more units. The key difference is ownership type. If the building is a condo with an HOA, SB 326 applies. If it is a rental apartment building, SB 721 applies. Both laws require inspections of exterior elevated elements such as balconies, decks, walkways, and stairs.
SB 326 law text: https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=201520160SB326
SB 721 law text: https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billTextClient.xhtml?bill_id=201720180SB721

Both laws require inspection of exterior elevated elements that are more than 6 feet above ground and supported in whole or in part by wood. This includes balconies, decks, walkways, stair landings, and similar structures. If people can stand or walk on it and it is elevated, it should be assumed it falls under the law until confirmed otherwise.
California Department of Housing EEE guidance: https://www.hcd.ca.gov/building-standards/exterior-elevated-elements.shtml

For SB 326 (HOAs), the first inspection deadline is January 1, 2025, with follow-up inspections required every 9 years. Inspections must be performed by a licensed structural engineer or architect.
For SB 721 (apartments), the first inspection deadline is January 1, 2026, with follow-up inspections required every 6 years. Inspections must be performed by a licensed architect, civil engineer, structural engineer, or other qualified professional as allowed by the local jurisdiction.
California HOA SB 326 guidance: https://www.davis-stirling.com/HOME/S/SB-326-Balcony-Inspection
California Department of Housing SB 721 info: https://www.hcd.ca.gov/building-standards/exterior-elevated-elements.shtml

Yes. We regularly work with property managers and HOAs throughout Monterey County on maintenance, repairs, and upgrades. This includes unit turns, common area repairs, exterior maintenance, dry rot repair, deck and stair repairs, and code-related work. We understand approval processes, budgets, and scheduling around tenants and residents.

Yes. We handle full unit turns including drywall repairs, paint, flooring, trim, doors, fixtures, minor plumbing and electrical, and general repairs. Our goal is to get units rent-ready efficiently without cutting corners.

Yes. We respond to urgent issues such as water damage, leaks, structural concerns, unsafe conditions, and storm damage. We understand that these situations affect tenants and liability, so we prioritize safety and quick response.

Yes. We regularly work in occupied units and coordinate scheduling with tenants through property managers. We communicate clearly, respect tenant spaces, and keep disruptions to a minimum while getting the work done.

Yes. If a repair or upgrade requires permits, we handle the permit process, inspections, and documentation. This includes structural repairs, electrical, plumbing, and code-related work. We make sure everything is done correctly and in compliance with local requirements.

Yes. We often walk properties with property managers and owners to identify deferred maintenance issues and help prioritize repairs. This allows you to plan budgets, avoid surprises, and address issues before they become major problems.

Yes. We provide clear scopes of work, photos, and documentation so owners, boards, and asset managers understand exactly what is being done. This is especially important for HOAs, multi-family properties, and properties with multiple decision makers.

Kitchen remodel costs vary widely depending on the size of the kitchen, the age of the home, layout changes, and finish selections. In Monterey County, most full kitchen remodels fall into a wide range of 50k-100k+ depending on space, cabinet choice, countertops, appliances, etc. Older homes can add complexity due to outdated plumbing, electrical, or framing. We always walk the space and provide a detailed proposal based on the actual conditions and your goals.

Most kitchen remodels take anywhere from 6 to 10 weeks once construction starts. Larger or more complex projects with layout changes, permits, and inspections can take longer. We build schedules around inspections, trades, and material lead times to keep the project moving.

In most cases, yes. If plumbing, electrical, ventilation, or structural changes are involved, permits are required. This includes moving appliances, adding outlets, changing lighting, modifying walls, or upgrading ventilation. We handle the permit process and inspections so everything is done correctly and to code.

Yes. Many clients choose to keep the existing layout and focus on new cabinets, countertops, backsplash, flooring, lighting, and finishes. This can help control cost and timeline while still giving the kitchen a completely updated look. We’ll advise you on what makes the most sense for your space.

A full kitchen remodel typically includes demolition, framing as needed, plumbing and electrical updates, new cabinets, countertops, backsplash, flooring, lighting, ventilation, drywall, texture, paint, and finish work. Every project is different, so we provide a clear scope of work outlining exactly what is included in your remodel.

Yes, and we do it often. Many homes in Monterey, Pacific Grove, Carmel, and surrounding areas are older and have outdated wiring, plumbing, and framing. It’s common to uncover issues once walls are opened. We know how to handle these situations and will communicate any findings before moving forward.

Yes. We coordinate licensed plumbers and electricians as part of the project. You don’t need to hire or manage multiple contractors. We handle scheduling, inspections, and quality control so everything is done properly and to code.

We can help guide layout, functionality, and finish selections. Many clients already have ideas or inspiration, and we help refine them and make sure they work in the real space. We regularly work with reputable 3rd- party designers, so if one is needed for a more custom project, we can refer and coordinate with one accordingly.

The most common issues we see are outdated electrical, ungrounded wiring, old galvanized plumbing, water damage, rot, and poor framing. These are especially common in older homes. We inspect as we go and communicate clearly if anything needs to be addressed.

In most cases, yes. Kitchens are one of the highest return areas in a home. An updated, functional kitchen is a major selling point and adds both value and everyday enjoyment. Many clients remodel not just for resale, but to make the space work better for their lifestyle.