ADU - Accessory Dwelling Units

What is an ADU?

Granny flats, in-law suites, backyard cottages, and converted garages—known as accessory dwelling units (ADUs)—are smaller, self-contained homes on the same property as the main house. Ranging from 220 to 1,200 square feet, ADUs include essential features like a kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area. They offer an affordable housing option without the need to buy additional land, and recent changes in laws are making ADU construction faster and easier.

ADU types.JPG

Can I build an ADU on my property and what else do I need to do?

Contact Planning to find out answers for your specific property.  Your ADU may still have to meet certain building requirements i.e. fire, solar, and septic.  For more information, please contact your local agencies and review the California ADU Handbook.

For additional information and assistance with ADUs, Housing El Dorado offers “Jumpstart ADU.”  This local nonprofit provides resources to help you find inspiration, navigate the process, and build your ideal ADU.

View ADU Plans

Unincorporated El Dorado County ADU Plans Gallery

rustic cabin adu (small).JPG Please note that these are only Floor/Architectural Plans. Please view ADU Plan Submittal Requirements for more information on permit submittal requirements. Properties located in Historic, Medium or High Fire Hazard and Flood Zones, or near Airports, may require additional reviews/documents. 

 

 

Required Forms

ADU Permit Application(PDF, 594KB)

Site Plan Requirements(PDF, 204KB)   

Please review the time requirements: ADU Review Timing Requirements(PDF, 759KB)

Property Owner ADU Construction Affidavit(PDF, 279KB)

Pre-Reviewed ADU Documents & Required Forms

Pre-Reviewed ADU Public Plan Set(PDF, 42MB)

Pre-Reviewed Submittal Checklist and Flow Chart(PDF, 297KB)  

ADU Permit Application(PDF, 594KB)

Hold Harmless Agreement(PDF, 528KB)

Built Without a Permit ADU

If you have an existing Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) on your property that was built without proper permits, California Assembly Bill 2533 (AB 2533) provides an opportunity to bring it into compliance with state regulations. The bill is designed to help homeowners legalize unpermitted ADUs by simplifying the process, reducing barriers, and offering a clear path to regularize these units. Click here(PDF, 672KB) for more information

 

AB 2234 Samples

AB 2234 requires local jurisdictions to publish an online checklist for applications to be deemed complete and maintain this checklist online for the public. An ideal application sample must be included in this checklist, which developers can then use as a reference. AB 2234 will apply to nearly all post-entitlement, residential permits issued by an agency under the control of the local jurisdiction, excluding utilities, special districts, and the Coastal Commission.

Examples of an Ideal Application and Required Detail Information

Application and Detailed Lists Specifying Information Required for Submittal of Post Entitlement Permits

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