The City of Burlingame permits ADUs across most residential zones. Burlingame 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.

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

• Detached ADU: New freestanding structure separate from the main home, like a backyard cottage
• Attached ADU: New structure (may include some converted space) sharing at least one wall with the main home
• Conversion ADU: Converted existing space in primary home or on the property (bedroom, basement, detached garage).
• Junior ADU (JADU): up to 500 square feet within the main home existing or proposed or attached garage.

• Maximum Size:
  
  • Detached: Up to 1,200 sq ft
  • Attached: Up to 50% of the primary dwelling’s floor area, not exceeding 1,200 sq ft
• Setbacks:
  
  • Minimum 4 ft from side and rear property lines
• Height Limits:
  
  • Typically, 16 ft, up to 24 ft depending on location, lot, and unit type
• Parking Requirements:
  
  • Additional parking is not required if the ADU is:
    
    • located within a half-mile of public transit.
    • created by converting an existing structure.
    • part of a historic district or designated area.
    • located within a designated historic district or designated area.

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

• Zoning compliance review
• Site plan showing property lines, existing and proposed structures, setbacks, and utilities
• Architectural drawings, including floor plans and elevations
• Structural calculations and engineering details
• Title 24 energy documentation
• Permit submission through the City of Burlingame’s online portal
  

Homeowners should also review Burlingame’s current fee schedule, utility connection requirements, fire code compliance, and verify if preapproved ADU plans can be used to streamline the process.

Permit review times vary but are typically between 60 days depending on project complexity and city workload. Projects requiring corrections may take longer. Engaging professionals familiar with Burlingame’s ADU process can help streamline approval.

The majority of Burlingame's residential zones qualify for ADUs, such as R-1, R-2, and R-M zones. There are typically no lot size requirements for ADUs. There might be special restrictions or extra review needs in some hillside or environmentally sensitive locations.

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