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

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

• Detached ADU: Separate building from the main residence (up to 1,200 sq ft)
• Attached ADU: Added onto the main home (up to 850 sq ft for 1 bedroom or less; 1,000 sq ft for 2+ bedrooms, or 50% of primary dwelling, whichever is greater)
• Conversion ADU: Converts part of an existing structure such as a garage or portion of the main dwelling; no maximum size specified
• Junior ADU (JADU): Up to 500 sq ft, created from part of an existing single-family home, may share a bathroom with the main residence; owner occupancy required

• Maximum Size:
  
  • Detached: Up to 1,200 sq ft
  • Attached: Up to 50% of the primary dwelling, up to 850 sq ft for one-bedroom or smaller units, and up to 1,000 sq ft for two or more bedrooms
• Setbacks:
  
  • Minimum 4-foot setbacks from the rear and side property lines
  • Front setback: 15 ft (20 ft if above garage)
• Height Limits:
  
  • Detached ADU: Up to the height of the primary dwelling or 25 ft, whichever is less
  •  Attached ADU: Same as the primary residence
• Parking Requirements:
  
  • Additional parking is not required if the ADU is:
    
    • Conversion ADU or Junior ADU (entirely within the existing primary residence or accessory structure)
    • Located within ½ mile walking distance of public transit
    • Situated within a historic district
    • Within one block of a car-share vehicle
    • In an area where on-street parking permits are required but not offered to ADU residents

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

• Zoning Compliance Review: Confirm the property complies with local zoning and ADU regulations
• Site Plan and Elevations: Provide detailed drawings showing the ADU’s proposed layout, dimensions, and elevations
• Architectural Drawings: Submit complete architectural plans detailing the design and construction of the ADU
• Structural Calculations and Engineering: Include engineering reports verifying the structural stability and safety of the ADU
• Title 24 Energy Documentation: Provide proof that the ADU meets California’s energy efficiency standards
• Permit Submission: All required documents must be submitted through the City of Pacifica’s online permit portal (MGO Connect)
  

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

Permit times are usually 6 to 12 weeks depending on the complexity of the project and workload in the city. Some simple projects can be expedited, whereas those with corrections or requiring additional information may take longer. Having experts familiar with Pacifica's ADU process can help make approval easier.

Accessory dwelling units are a permitted use in any district where residential uses are allowed (R-1, R-2, R-3, R-5, C-1, C-2, P-D, and A zones). Junior accessory dwelling units (JADUs) are permitted within existing single-family residences or as part of a proposed single-family residence.

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