Accessory Dwelling Units

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

• How to get FREE plans for Building an ADU in the City of Stockton
• The Permitting Process for an ADU
• Extended Definition of ADUs
• The Benefits of ADUs

Building ADUs within the City of Stockton

Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) plans are available free of charge to community members looking to build an ADU. There are three different floor plans to choose from: Studio, 1 Bedroom, and 2 Bedrooms -- all with 1 Bath.

Permitting Process for an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)

Start by reviewing the Guide to Building Accessory Dwelling Units to determine what will work on your property. The following documents have been created to assist you in the preparation of your Building Permit submittal for a pre-approved ADU. The Processing Guide provides step-by-step instructions to assist in preparing your submittal and explains additional documentation required.

Documents

• Processing Guide for Pre-Approved ADU
• Sample Site Plan
• Building Permit Application
• Hold Harmless Agreement

About an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)

ADUs provide independent living quarters for one household on the same lot as the primary single-family 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 living areas 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.

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 --- 11/2/2020