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

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

• Detached ADU: A standalone unit built on the property, separate from the main home.
• Attached ADU: A unit physically attached to the main home, sharing at least one wall.
• Conversion ADU: Created by converting existing spaces such as a garage, basement, or other non-living areas into a full living unit.
• Junior ADU (JADU): Converts existing space inside your home (like a bedroom or garage) into a small unit (500 sq. ft. max). Requires the owner to live on the property.

• 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 for detached ADUs by right
• Parking Requirements:
  
  • Additional parking is not required if the ADU is:
    
    • Within ½ mile of public transit
    • Part of an existing primary residence or accessory structure conversion
    • Located in a historic district
    • Where on-street parking permits are required but not offered to the ADU

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

• Zoning compliance review (may require Design Review, CUP, or variance depending on project scope)
• Site plan and architectural drawings showing full scope of work
• Structural calculations and engineering as needed
• Title 24 energy compliance documentation
• Waste Management Plan (Recycling Plan and Recycling Summary Report)
• Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) permits or inclusion under a Residential Building Combination permit
• Permit submission through Oakland’s Online Permit Center
  

Homeowners and developers should also review Oakland’s current fee schedule, planning and zoning requirements, utility connection rules, and fire code compliance.

Permit review times for ADUs in Oakland are typically 4 to 11 weeks depending on project complexity and city workload. Zoning clearance may take an additional 10 to 20 days. Projects requiring corrections or multiple rounds of review may take longer. The City is required by state law to issue ADU permits within 60 days of a complete application. Engaging professionals familiar with Oakland’s ADU process can help streamline approval.

Most residential zones in Oakland are eligible for ADUs, including R-1, R-2, and R-M zones. There are no minimum lot size requirements for ADUs in Oakland. However, certain hillside or environmentally sensitive zones may have special restrictions.

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