Foster City Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Standards
New laws were recently passed, and updates will be coming soon
INFORMATION | |
Contact |
Timothy Maier, Associate Planner 650.286.3237 |
Website | |
ADU Ordinance | |
STANDARDS | |
Zones allowed |
R-1, R-1/PD, R-2 |
Lot restrictions |
Must be single-family dwelling |
Minimum lot size | 5,000 sf |
Min / Max ADU size |
150 sf / 640 sf |
ADU building height | 25 feet (for an attached ADU placed at the second story of a single-family home); for all other ADU configurations, consult City Planning staff |
Setbacks |
ADU is subject to the same setbacks as primary dwelling (typically 20 feet front, 5 feet side and 20 feet rear). There is a minimum 10-foot setback between a detached ADU and the primary dwelling. |
Parking requirements |
One parking space is required unless state exemptions are met (ADU is within 1⁄2 mile of transit, in existing structures, or within one block of car share locations). Parking can be uncovered and in tandem with covered parking. Tandem parking and parking in setbacks are allowed (assuming no public safety concerns). |
Owner occupancy |
Owner must live in the main dwelling or the ADU |
Sample fees from recently built projects* |
ADU (430 sf, attached): $12,094 |
Other requirements |
|
Process |
ADUs are subject to Architectural Review (design review), which requires that staff make specific findings for any residential additional project. A Planning Commission hearing is required for waterfront additions of 200+ square feet or second-story additions of 400+ square feet. Making an appointment to meet with a planner in the initial stages of the project can help avoid challenges and is highly recommended. |
Exceptions |
None |
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