Development Standards
You may build an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in many residential Zoning districts. Please contact the Planning Department to determine if your property may have an ADU.
![Accessory Dwelling Unit Development Standards Table](/files/assets/city/v/1/business-and-development/images/637279847451370000.jpg)
Interested in Building an ADU?
For more information on resources related to an ADU development, please visit our ADU Programs & Resources page for more information on resources related to ADU development.
Floor Area for purposes of an ADU
- ADUs ≤ 800 s.f. (living area, excluding decks, etc.) are not limited by lot coverage, FAR, and open space requirements
- ADUs > 800 s.f. are limited by lot coverage, FAR, and open space requirements
- ADUs in multi-family developments are not limited by lot coverage, FAR, or open space requirements
- Internal Conversions in multi-family dwellings must be created out of space that is not used as livable space (i.e. attic, basement, storage room)
What is a JADU?
- An ADU ≤500 s.f.
- Contained entirely within an existing or proposed home (not a garage)
- Must fit within the allowed 45% Floor Area Ratio
- Must have an efficiency kitchen at the minimum
- Bathroom may be shared or independent from principal unit
- Converted out of habitable living space
Did You Know?
An accessory dwelling unit:
- Is exempt from Floor Area Ratio and Lot Coverage limitations, if ≤ 800 s.f.
- May have a separate address
- May be rented
- May be located as close at 4 ft from the rear and side property lines, if ≤ 800 s.f.
- May not be sold separately from the principal dwelling unit
- May not have an interior connection with the primary dwelling unit except if it is a JADU with a shared bathroom
- Does not have to pay park, storm drain and school impact fees, if < 750 s.f.
- May be located on the second story only if:
- It is a conversion of existing living space
- Parking may not be required if you add an ADU or convert a garage to an ADU:
- One additional off-street parking space, if the principal dwelling unit has less than the minimum off-street parking spaces for the applicable residential zoning district in which it is located. However, no parking requirements, if any of the following apply to the property:
- Is within one-half (1/2) mile of a public transit stop; or
- Located in an architecturally and historically significant historic district; or
- Occupant of the unit is not allowed/offered a required on-street parking permit; or
- Located within one block of a car share vehicle pick-up location.
- If required enclosed parking is converted to an ADU, no replacement parking is required.