Field note · Site work

Fullerton ADU utilities and site work deserve an early plan.

The shortest line on a sketch is not always the right connection. We look at capacity, route, grade, existing surfaces, access, provider requirements, and who is responsible for each decision.

01 · Utility routes

Trace each system from the unit to a verified point.

Sewer slope and connection location, water size, electrical service capacity, gas decisions, communications, heating and cooling, and drainage all affect the plan.

A contractor can help coordinate the questions, but utility owners, designers, engineers, or inspectors may need to make the determination. Keep those tasks visible.

02 · Construction access

Measure the route, not only the yard.

Gate width, side-yard clearance, steps, overhead wires, driveway turns, slopes, trees, walls, and occupied spaces determine how work reaches the backyard.

Restricted access can change excavation, concrete placement, hauling, material size, labor, and the area needed for safe staging.

03 · Water and grade

Do not solve the building by moving water to a neighbor.

Record existing flow paths, low points, roof discharge, retaining, and paved areas before changing the site.

Drainage design is project-specific. The scope should show who designs it, what is built, and which disturbed surfaces will be restored.

04 · Bid checklist

Separate known work from investigation.

List trench lengths, assumed depths, connection points, service upgrades, patching, landscape removal, tree protection, hauling, and replacement work when known.

When they are not known, state the investigation or allowance clearly. That is more useful than hiding uncertainty inside one site-work number.

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