City of Davis, CA
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What is an Accessory Dwelling Unit?
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is another home on your property. It can take many forms - a separate small home, an apartment over a garage, or in a basement. It can be created by remodeling your existing home and garage or making additions to it. An ADU will always contain everything someone needs to live, including a kitchen, bathroom, and place to sleep.
Types of ADUs
Type 1 (Building Permit Only)
If a project is able to meet the requirements of those specified on page 2 of the Accessory Dwelling Units and Guest Houses Guidelines, it does not require a permit from the Planning Division. Zoning tools such as lot coverage, open space requirements and floor area ratios are not applied to Type 1 ADUs.
Type 2 (Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit)
Type 2 ADUs have the same approval process as Type 1 ADUs. A Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU) must be within the walls of the habitable portion of the single family residence, not including the garage or carport. Standards are found on page 3 of the Guidelines.
Type 3 (Ministerial Permit)
ADUs are eligible for a Ministerial Permit if they do not meet the requirements for a Building Permit Only but meet the requirements listed on pages 4-5 of the Guidelines. Lot coverage, floor area ratio, and open space requirements apply to a Ministerial ADU.
Type 4 (Non-Ministerial)
Type 4 ADUs do not meet the requirements for a Ministerial ADU or Building Permit Only. Non-Ministerial ADUs are subject to the regulations on pages 6-7 of the Guidelines and require the approval of an administrative use permit that is administered by the Planning Department.
Pre-Designed ADU Plans
The City of Davis offers free sets of pre-designed plans. The size options include a 300 SF studio, a 565 SF one-bedroom, and a 740 SF two-bedroom design. In order for a building permit to be issued, the pre-designed plans shall be submitted for the Community Development Department and are subject to the typical review process. However, the pre-designed plans have already been reviewed for compliance so the process is shortened and cheaper.
More information on the Pre-Designed ADUs visit the Pre-Designed ADU Webpage.
Additional Information and Links
Accessory Dwelling Unit and Guest House Guidelines and Application Package
Accessory Dwelling Unit and Guest House Application Form
(for Ministerial Type 3 ADUs, Non-Ministerial Type 4 ADUs, and Guest Houses)
On May 18, 2021, the Davis City Council adopted Ordinance 2602, which amended the Davis Municipal Code pertaining to Accessory Dwelling Units. The primary purpose of the update was to bring the City's ordinance into compliance with the regulations of the State of California. Now, there are several different ways anyone can receive approval for an ADU on their property. Staff has prepared the information packet explaining the requirements for each type of ADU. Just click on the links below to view a copy of the information and application form.