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Accessory dwelling unit (ADU)

Add accessory dwelling units (ADUs), in-law units, or cottages to residential properties.

How it works
Learn & decide
 
Check our rules and fees to decide if you want to add an ADU.
Prepare plans
 
See our requirements to design an ADU to meet our rules.
Apply
 
Submit your ADU application online.
Review
 
We will review your plans. Most ADU plans need changes.
Approve & start
 
You must have a job card to start construction.

See full process

Services

Apply for an ADU

Prepare for an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) project

Decide if you want to add an ADU and prepare your application.

Apply to build an accessory dwelling unit (ADUs)

Follow these steps to apply online and complete the other required processes to build your ADU.

ADU requirements

Check if you can add new Accessory Dwelling Units to your residential property

You may be able to add additional accessory dwelling units (ADUs), also known as granny flats, in-law units, cottages, or garage apartments to your existing or proposed building.

Check our street tree rules for your ADU

Your property must have one street tree per every 20 feet of frontage that borders the public right of way.

Post a notice for your ADU

For Local program ADUs, you must post a notice in your building at least 15 days before your submit your ADU application.

Design an ADU that meets City codes

Accessory dwelling units (ADU) must meet City requirements that keep buildings safe and neighborhoods livable.

Pre-approved Accessory Dwelling Unit Plans

Get your detached Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) plan pre-approved for future use

Apply to get your ADU plan pre-approved and added to our website

Permit processing

Track your building permit application or property complaint

Find building permits for current and past construction projects in our permit tracking system.

Gather documents for your building permit issuance

Bring these documents to get your building permit issued.

Resources

Learn about the Permit Review Roundtable

Building permit applications for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) being proposed under the State or Hybrid Programs can be reviewed in advance by all relevant City departments and discussed with the design professional during a virtual meeting with plan checkers from those departments.
ADU Design and Permitting Resource Sheet

Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Design & Permitting Resource Sheet - a general guide for obtaining a permit to construct an ADU

Departments

SF Planning

Under the direction of the Planning Commission, we work to help guide the growth and development of our City.

Department of Building Inspection

DBI approves plans and issues permits for all construction in the City. We make sure buildings are safe and comply with building and housing codes.

Fire Department

SFFD protects San Franciscans from fires and natural disasters, through education and emergency services.

Public Utilities Commission

We provide drinking water and wastewater services to San Francisco and hydroelectric and solar power to municipal departments.