The City of East Palo Alto permits ADUs across most residential zones. East Palo Alto 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.

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

• Detached ADU: A new freestanding structure separate from the main home
• Attached ADU: A new structure (may include converted space) sharing at least one wall with main home
• Conversion ADU: Converted existing space in the main home or on the property (bedroom, basement, detached garage)
• Junior ADU (JADU): A smaller conversion ADU within the main home or attached garage, up to 500 square feet with an efficiency or full kitchen

• Maximum Size:
  
  • Detached: 1,000 square feet
  • Attached: (contained within a primary dwelling) 50% of the primary dwelling
• Setbacks:
  
  • 4 feet side/rear setbacks.
• Height Limits:
  
  • Attached ADU: up to 25 feet or the maximum allowed by the underlying zoning, whichever is lower (allows for ADUs built above an attached garage).
  • Detached ADU: up to 18 feet plus an additional 2 feet to accommodate a roof pitch that is aligned with the primary house
    
• Parking Requirements:
  
  • Additional parking is not required if the ADU is:
    
    • Generally additional off-street parking is not required for ADU
    • If converting a garage to an ADU, replacement parking is not required

To build an ADU in East Palo Alto, the following approvals are typically required:

• Zoning compliance review: Preliminary Ministerial Review (PMR) to confirm ADU meets zoning, setbacks, height, and lot coverage requirements
• Site plan and elevations: Required as part of the PMR and building permit application to show location, size, and design of the ADU relative to the main dwelling and property lines
• Architectural drawings: Floor plans, elevations, and sections illustrating layout, room sizes, doors, windows, and overall design of the ADU
• Structural calculations and engineering: Engineering plans for foundation, framing, and structural components to meet California Building Code standards
• Title 24 energy documentation: Compliance with California energy efficiency standards (Title 24), including insulation, lighting, and HVAC requirements
• Permit submission: Submit all required documents and fees for review. After approval, inspections are required at various stages of construction
  

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

Permit review times vary but are typically between 6 to 12 weeks depending on project complexity and city workload. Projects requiring corrections may take longer. Engaging professionals familiar with East Palo Alto’s ADU process can help streamline approval.

Most residential zones are eligible for ADUs, including R-1 (Single-Family Residential), R-2 (Two-Family Residential), and R-M (Multi-Family Residential) zones. There are no minimum lot sizes for ADUs on most single-family and multi-family lots in East Palo Alto. Some hillside or environmentally sensitive zones may have special restrictions.

For the most current and complete information, refer directly to the City of East Palo Alto.