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

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

• Detached ADU: A separate structure in the backyard
• Attached ADU: A unit connected to the primary residence
• Conversion ADU: Created by renovating existing structures like garages or basements
• Junior ADU (JADU): Up to 500 sq ft within the existing home, includes an efficiency kitchen, separate entrance

• 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 for new detached structures.
    
• Height Limits:
  
  • Typically, 25 ft for attached at 4 ft from the rear lot line
  • Up to 20 ft for detached at 4 ft from the rear lot line
• Parking Requirements:
  
  • Additional parking is not required if the ADU is:
    
    • Parking is not required for the existing residential unit associated with an accessory dwelling unit. If a garage or carport is converted to or replaced by an accessory dwelling unit, no replacement parking is required

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

• Zoning compliance review: with the Planning Division for setbacks, height, and size
• Site plan and elevations: showing the entire property and exterior views
• Architectural drawings: detailing the floor plan and construction
• Structural calculations and engineering: especially for conversions or new structures
• Title 24 energy documentation: A mandatory state-mandated report proving your ADU meets California's energy efficiency standards.
• Permit submission: to the City of Emeryville's Planning and Building Division, with plans routed for Fire Department review.
  

Homeowners should also review Emeryville’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 Emeryville’s ADU process can help streamline approval.

Most residential and mixed-use zones are eligible for ADUs in Emeryville, including Residential, Mixed-Use Residential (MUR), and Mixed-Use Residential/Service (MURS) zones. There are no minimum lot sizes for ADUs. Some multi-family lots or specific zones may have additional requirements for setbacks, height, or parking.

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