No matter which category of ADU you choose, you need the applicable permits. All ADUs require Planning Permits and Building Permits. When preparing to apply, take the following steps first.<\/p>\n
Substep 1: Confirm Your Zone<\/p>\n
The City of Oakland typically permits ADUs on properties located within residential or mixed-use zones.<\/p>\n
Substep 2: Design Your ADU(s)<\/p>\n General Requirements Design Methods<\/p>\n Before you start building your ADU, you must create and get your ADU design approved. You can design your own ADU, or you can choose another way to design your ADU.<\/p>\n Although not required, a designer, licensed architect, or engineer is recommended to design the ADU and a licensed contractor to build it. Some companies provide both services. It is helpful when professionals have worked in Oakland and know the local permitting process. Contact references and look at the candidate’s previous work before making your selection.<\/p>\n
Substep 3: Review Zoning Criteria Checklist<\/p>\n
\nView our Zoning Map<\/a> to confirm your property’s zone.
\nOnce you confirm your zone, view the\u00a0Zoning Plan Requirements.(PDF,\u00a0832KB)<\/a>
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\nIf your property is zoned properly continue on to the next step, designing your ADU.
\nIf you want to build an ADU, but it is not allowed in your zone, please review your zone’s requirements for possible exceptions and alternative plans.
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\nThere are set requirements for size, location, and facilities that must be included in your plan. For example, you must provide the location, height and building materials of all existing and proposed fencing and walls.
\nPlease review the Zoning Plan Requirements(PDF,\u00a0832KB)<\/a>. These requirements differ from project to project but may include:
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\nTopographical survey
\nExisting and proposed site plans
\nFloor plan
\nElevations
\nCross sections
\nTree survey
\nGrading plan
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\nUse pre-approved designs: We now offer “off-the-shelf” ADU pre-approved designs<\/a> for use with properties that have Single-Family or Multi-Family homes. These permit-ready plans are complete construction drawings that conform to the latest codes. Using these pre-approved designs means the building permit process is quicker if your lot can house the ADU.
\nUpgrade pre-approved designs: You can also use pre-approved designs as a starting point for your project. Take a plan for an ADU studio(PDF,\u00a03MB)<\/a>, ADU one bedroom(PDF,\u00a02MB)<\/a> or ADU two bedroom(PDF,\u00a03MB)<\/a> and customize it for your needs and lot.
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