East Palo Alto Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Standards
New laws were recently passed, and updates will be coming soon
| INFORMATION | |
| Contact |
Guido Persicone, Planning and Housing Manager This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. - 650.853.3195 |
| Website | |
| ADU Ordinance | |
| STANDARDS | |
|
Zones allowed |
All residential zones
|
| Lot restrictions |
Cannot exceed density plan for the neighborhood (evaluated on a parcel level) |
| Minimum lot size |
Attached: 5,500 sf Detached: 7,500 sf |
| Min / Max ADU size |
None / 700-1,000 sf (depending on lot size) |
| ADU building height |
15 feet |
|
Setbacks |
6 feet rear, 3 feet sides, 6 feet from primary dwelling Must be behind primary dwelling |
| Parking requirements |
One parking space is required (added to the house requirement) unless state exemptions are met (ADU is within 1⁄2 mile of transit, in existing structures, in historic districts, within one block of car share locations, or in an area with residential parking permit rules that do not allow second units to get a permit). Tandem parking and parking in setbacks is allowed.
|
| Owner occupancy |
Owner must live in the main dwelling or the ADU |
| Sample fees from recently built projects* |
ADU (500 sf): $18,314 |
| Other requirements |
|
| Process |
Application is reviewed by planning to evaluate parking, zoning and lot size. If approved, can apply for building permit. Making an appointment to meet with a planner in the initial stages of the project can help avoid challenges and is highly recommended. |
| Exceptions |
The Planning Commission can waive the ADU requirements with a use permit. |
Disclaimer: standards and process may vary. Consultation with the contact is recommended before starting any project.
*Fees are specific to each project and will vary. Fees change regularly. These are provided as examples only.
Download ADU Standards PDF
Updated: 12/11/2017