Related Information

Accessory Dwelling Units

An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is an attached or detached residential dwelling unit on the same lot as an existing or proposed single-family dwelling that is zoned for single-family or multifamily use. ADUs provide complete independent living facilities for one or more persons.

ADUs provide independent living quarters for one household on the same lot as an existing or proposed single-family or multifamily dwelling. The ADU provides full facilities for sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation. The ADU may be detached, attached or a converted structure located within the walls of the primary dwelling unit on the lot.

Detached: The ADU structure is detached from the primary dwelling unit.
Attached: The ADU structure is attached to the primary dwelling unit.
Converted: The ADU within the existing primary dwelling unit or the ADU was established through the conversion of an accessory structure, for example, a garage or pool house.

Junior Accessory Dwelling Units

A Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU) is a unit that is no more than 500 square feet in size and contained entirely within the walls of an existing single-family structure. A JADU is required to have at least an efficiency kitchen and may have separate sanitation facilities or may share with the main dwelling. The property owner is required to reside in either the main dwelling or the JADU. A JADU is not allowed to be constructed in a multi-family building.

JADUs provide independent living quarters for one household on the same lot as a single-family dwelling. The JADU must be converted space within the walls of an existing single-family structure. This may include the conversion of an attached garage but detached accessory structures cannot be converted to JADUs. The property owner is required to reside in the main dwelling or the JADU, this requirement is documented on a recorded deed restriction.

Efficiency kitchen required: Includes plug-in-type cooking appliances, adequate food prep counter, and refrigerated storage.
Sanitation Facilities: May be included in the JADU or may share with the main dwelling. Interior access to the main dwelling is required if sharing bathroom facilities.

Pre-Approved Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Plans

Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) plans are available free of charge to community members looking to build an ADU within City limits. There are three different floor plans to choose from Studio, 1 Bedroom, and 2 Bedrooms - all with 1 Bath. All plans are pre-approved to meet the latest code requirements and utilize simple, cost-effective designs. To meet the latest energy code requirements, all plan options are electric power only (no gas service).

Permitting Process for an ADU / JADU

The following documents have been created to assist in the preparation of a Building Permit submittal for an ADU or JADU. For custom design ADU/JADU projects, please refer to the Plan Review Submittal Checklist for a list of items required. If you would like to take advantage of the City’s Pre-Approved ADU program, please refer to the Pre-Approved Accessory Dwelling Unit Checklist and Sample Site Plan for further guidance.

Documents

Benefits of an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)

Can provide a source of income for homeowners;
Allows homeowners the flexibility to create a home to share with family members
and others;
Offers an opportunity for multi-generational living, allowing seniors to age in place as they require more care;
May provide affordable and additional housing opportunities within existing neighborhoods; and
A cost-effective way to provide additional housing, by potentially eliminating the cost of purchasing land, installing or building major new infrastructure, or creating new structured parking.

For more information, please contact the Community Development Department, Building Division.

External Links

State of California Housing and Community Development Department - ADUs

This City of Stockton web page last reviewed on --- 2/10/2023

Building Permits & Inspection