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

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

• Detached ADU: A standalone unit located on the same lot as the primary residence.
• Attached ADU: A unit physically connected to the main home, sharing a wall but with a separate entrance.
• Conversion ADU: Created by converting an existing structure, such as a garage, basement, or barn, into a livable unit. 
• Junior ADU (JADU): A smaller unit, up to 500 sq ft, built entirely within an existing single-family home, including an attached garage.

• Maximum Size:
  
  • Detached: Up to 1,500 sq ft.
  • Attached: Up to 50% of the primary dwelling's size or 1,500 sq ft, whichever is less.
• Setbacks:
  
  • Minimum 4 ft from side and rear property lines
• Height Limits:
  
  • Typically, 17 ft for detached ADUs; up to 25 ft for attached ADUs depending on location and unit type.
• Parking Requirements:
  
  • Additional parking is not required if the ADU is:
    
    • Located within ½ mile of public transit
    • Converted from an existing structure
    • In a historic district or other designated area

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

• Zoning compliance review
• Site plan and elevations
• Architectural drawings
• Structural calculations and engineering
• Title 24 energy documentation
• Permit submission through the Town of Woodside’s online portal.
  

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

Permit review times in the Town of Woodside typically range from 6 to 12 weeks, depending on project complexity and staff workload. Projects requiring corrections or plan revisions may take longer. Working with professionals familiar with Woodside’s ADU process can help streamline approval and reduce delays.

Most residential zones in the Town of Woodside are eligible for ADUs. A primary dwelling must exist or be proposed on the lot. There are generally no minimum lot size requirements for ADUs in most areas, although some hillside, environmentally sensitive, or special overlay zones may impose additional restrictions regarding setbacks, height, or design.

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