The City of Albany permits ADUs across most residential zones. Albany follows both state and local ADU laws, allowing most single-family homes to build one detached ADU and one Junior ADU (JADU) per lot. Multi-family properties may be eligible for multiple ADUs, depending on site conditions.

Albany aligns with California’s broader ADU legislation but has its own requirements for height, setbacks, and design review.

• Detached ADU: newly constructed as a separate structure and does not share any walls with the primary dwelling.
• Attached ADU: newly constructed as an addition to a primary dwelling.
• Conversion ADU: created within the existing space of a primary dwelling or an accessory structure.
• Junior ADU (JADU): up to 500 square feet that is converted within the existing space of a single-family dwelling unit, including an attached garage.

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• Maximum Size:
  
  • Detached: Up to 850 sq ft
  • Attached: Up to 50% of the primary dwelling’s floor area, not exceeding 850 sq ft
• Setbacks:
  
  • 3-foot rear and side yard setbacks for a new or expanded ADU
• Height Limits:
  
  • 20 feet for detached ADU
  • 25 feet for attached ADUs
• Parking Requirements:
  
  • Additional parking is not required if the ADU is:
    
    • No off-street parking is required

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To build an ADU in Albany, the following approvals are typically required:

• Zoning compliance review: Verification that the proposed ADU (Detached, Attached, Conversion, or Junior ADU) complies with Albany's municipal code and state-mandated ADU laws
• Site plan and elevations: Property lines, existing structures, proposed ADU location with dimensions and setbacks, drainage paths, and parking areas
• Architectural drawings: Detailed Floor Plans for the ADU, including room dimensions, door and window locations, and layout of all plumbing and kitchen fixtures
• Structural calculations and engineering: This ensures compliance with the California Building Code
• Permit submission: Submission of the complete application package, including all above documents, to the City of Albany's Community Development Department
  

Homeowners should also review Albany’s current fee schedule, utility connection requirements, and fire code compliance.

Permit review times in Albany typically take up to 60 days for a complete ADU application, as required by state law. Projects requiring corrections or multiple rounds of review may take longer. Engaging professionals familiar with Albany’s ADU process can help streamline approval.

Most residential zones in Albany are eligible for ADUs, including R-1, R-2, R-3, and RHD zones. There are no minimum lot sizes for ADUs. Some hillside or environmentally sensitive areas may have additional development standards or restrictions.

For the most current and complete information, refer directly to the City of Albany.