If there’s one thing that the California Bay Area is known for, it’s the high cost of living. Even smaller suburban cities like Fremont and Palo Alto are reporting seven-figure price tags for modest-sized homes which once made perfect starter homes for young families and individuals.

Luckily, many city officials have collectively made efforts to adopt accessory dwelling unit (ADU) friendly regulations and initiatives to assist in boosting housing production. The result? ADUs are popping up in neighborhoods all over the region. But, some cities are going above and beyond to encourage ADUs by offering pre-approved plans, expedited permitting, and even waived fees.

Let’s shine a spotlight for 5 of those cities in the Bay Area.

#5: Palo Alto

bay area adu

Coming in at number 5 we have the home of Stanford University, Palo Alto. What do students and professors need more than anything during the school year? Housing.

ADUs are perfect for accommodating the high demand for housing in Palo Alto. They offer private homes for students and traveling professors that are in need of long-term housing. The city offers multiple incentives for Palo Alto residents to help offset some of the costs and streamline the approval process.

Palo Alto ADU Loan Program

The City of East Palo Alto offers a $100,000 low-interest loan for income-eligible households. The great part? No monthly payments are required. To qualify:

  • Homeowners must earn at or below 80% of the area median income
  • The property must be owner occupied
  • The ADU must be rented to an income-qualified household

You can find more information about the ADU Loan here.

Palo Alto Pre-Reviewed ADU Plans

Palo Alto has drafted four pre-reviewed ADU plans that homeowners can use to use for their projects. While this plans initiative may not be as flexible as other cities (which we’ll touch on later) these plans can still help to simplify the permitting process and shave several weeks off of the lengthy design phase.

They have a studio floor plan, two one-bedroom plans, and a two-bedroom plan to choose from. These are free to use, but plans will still need to be customized to your property.

#4: Redwood City

bay area adu

Cecilia’s garage conversion ADU in Redwood City

Redwood City stands out as a leader in promoting ADU development, offering a range of resources and support to make the process as smooth as possible for homeowners. In fact, Redwood City is home to this fan-favorite garage conversion ADU that shook up the neighborhood.

Here are some key initiatives that highlight why Redwood City is a top choice for building an ADU.

ADU Completeness Checklist

To ensure homeowners have all the necessary components for their ADU project, Redwood City provides an ADU Completeness Checklist. This comprehensive PDF outlines everything needed to complete an ADU project, including:

  • Site Plan Details: Instructions on how to create an accurate site plan that meets city requirements.
  • Utility Plans: Information on necessary utility connections and plans, including water, sewer, and electrical layouts.
  • Reports: Guidance on required reports such as structural calculations, soil reports, and other technical documents.

By following this checklist, homeowners can be confident they have all the documentation and details required for a successful ADU application and construction process.

Online Booking Service

Redwood City recognizes the importance of accessible support and offers an online booking service for homeowners. Through this service, homeowners can schedule virtual appointments via Zoom with Planning Division staff. During these appointments, staff members can answer questions and provide guidance.

#3: San Francisco

bay area adu

San Francisco, known for its high-density living and innovative urban planning, has embraced ADUs as a solution to its housing shortage. The city offers several initiatives and resources to make ADU construction easier and more efficient for homeowners.

Outlined Design Considerations

San Francisco provides comprehensive guidelines to follow when designing your ADU. These guidelines ensure that ADUs meet city codes and maintain the architectural integrity of neighborhoods. The guidelines cover details like:

  • Unit Requirements: Ensuring that the ADU meets the necessary size, height, and occupancy standards set by the city.
  • Property Requirements: Adhering to zoning laws, setback requirements, and lot coverage limits to ensure the ADU is compliant with property regulations.
  • Fire Safety: Implementing fire safety measures, such as smoke detectors, fire-resistant materials, and proper egress routes to enhance the safety of the ADU.

These detailed considerations help homeowners create functional, compliant, and safe ADUs.

Expedited Online ADU Application

One of the standout features of San Francisco’s approach to ADUs is the expedited online application process. While many cities can take up to six months to approve ADU applications, San Francisco aims to complete the process within five business days.

The city provides a step-by-step outline of what needs to be done to apply for and build an ADU. This guide covers everything from initial planning to final approval, ensuring homeowners understand each stage of the process. For more details, check out the step-by-step outline.

#2: Oakland

bay area ADU

An attached ADU in Oakland

Oakland’s Pre-Approved ADU Plans

One of the biggest initiatives that Oakland has implemented is their Pre-Approved ADU plans. It’s a step in the right direction, however, similar to Palo Alto there is room to improve.

Their library currently only has three plans (a studio, a one-bedroom, and a two-bedroom) and they’re all owned by the City of Oakland. Homeowners will still need to submit a complete site plan to ensure the plan will work on their property. They’ll likely still need to enlist the help of a designer or draftsperson to complete the remaining documents required for the application process.

Still, it can be a fantastic option for a homeowner that is looking for a no-fuss design process and has a large lot with minimal obstacles.

Amnesty Program for Unpermitted ADUs

Oakland also offers an Amnesty Program for homeowners with unpermitted ADUs. This initiative is designed to bring existing unpermitted ADUs up to code without the usual penalties and complications associated with unpermitted construction. The program waives any existing violations of the Planning Code, including issues related to setbacks, height, size, lot coverage, location, or other planning or zoning requirements.

Additionally, homeowners receive assistance in navigating the process of legalizing their unpermitted ADUs, ensuring they meet safety and habitability standards.

#1: San Jose

San Jose is at the forefront of ADU development in the Bay Area, offering several innovative programs and initiatives designed to simplify the process and maximize the benefits of adding an accessory dwelling unit.

ADU Tuesdays

For homeowners planning to build a single-story ADU with fewer than 900 sq ft, San Jose’s ADU Tuesdays offer a streamlined permitting process. On ADU Tuesdays, you can walk into the Development Services Permit Center with an appointment and, if everything is in order, walk out the very same day with your building permit. This efficient process allows homeowners to kick off their ADU projects without the typical waiting period associated with permit approvals.

It’s important to note that an approval is not guaranteed which is why it’s important to have your plans looked over by an experienced ADU designer. You don’t want to waste your Tuesday ;)

Pre-Approved Master Plans Initiative

Remember Palo Alto and Oakland’s pre-approved ADU plans initiatives? Meet the elevated version.

San Jose’s pre-approved plans initiative differs in that the plans are submitted and OWNED by local ADU designers and architects. Why does this matter? You get the benefit of pre-approved plans plus the benefit of having the support of the designer behind those plans. A program like this also allows for a much larger library of designs to choose from. It’s a win-win-win situation.

Once you’ve selected a design, you will be connected to the designer and they will start the permitting process for you. All you have to do is stand-by and wait for your building permit to be approved.

Condo-ization of ADUs

San Jose is the first city to allow homeowners to sell their ADUs as condos through California’s AB 1033.

This innovative approach not only supports homeowners looking to capitalize on their ADUs but also helps address the housing shortage by offering new opportunities for first-time home buyers. Although San Jose is the first city in the state to usher in this new bill, it’s far from being the first in the nation.

Condo-ized ADUs have been a staple in the Portland, Oregon housing market for many years and the community has reported rave reviews for this initiative. We hope for similar results in San Jose and for other cities to follow suit.

Find your Bay Area designers and builders with Maxable

Choosing the right city for your ADU project can significantly impact the ease and success of your development, but an ADU project is still a big feat to take on your own.

Go the easy route and let Maxable connect you with experienced Bay Area designers and builders who specialize in ADUs. With their expertise, you’ll navigate the complexities of design, permitting, and construction with confidence. Maxable’s network of professionals can help you streamline the process, ensure compliance with local regulations, and bring your vision to life efficiently.

Don’t tackle your ADU project alone. Find your ideal team with Maxable and make your ADU dream a reality with expert support every step of the way. Schedule your call today.