Based on the floorplan design presented, the type of permit required would depend on various factors, such as the size of the ADU, its location on the property, and the extent of construction involved.
If the ADU is less than 500 square feet and does not require any additional utility connections, it may be eligible for a "tiny home on wheels" permit. However, if the ADU is fixed to a foundation and requires utility connections, it would likely require a traditional building permit.
Additionally, if the ADU is located in a designated historic district or a flood zone, special permits and approvals may be necessary before construction can commence.
When it comes to the specific design requirements for the ADU, the floorplan must comply with local building codes and regulations. This means that the unit must have adequate ingress and egress, proper insulation, and ventilation, as well as appropriate heating and cooling systems.
In terms of layout, the ADU should be designed to maximize space and functionality. This can include features such as multi-purpose furniture, built-in storage, and space-saving appliances. It's also important to consider the needs of potential occupants, such as seniors or individuals with disabilities, and ensure that the ADU is accessible and meets their specific requirements.
Overall, when specifying design requirements for an ADU home, it's essential to consider both the practical and aesthetic aspects of the unit. By taking into account the specific needs of the property owner and potential occupants, and complying with local regulations, you can ensure that the ADU is a safe, functional, and attractive addition to the property.
Accessory dwelling units (ADUs), also called secondary units or granny flats, are small living units with a kitchen and bathroom. They can be on residentially zoned properties, including single-family, duplex, or multifamily properties. The ADU Universal Checklist will help you identify if your property qualifies for an ADU.
Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs) are less than 500 square feet and located within the footprint of a single-family home. They may be converted from the existing square footage of a single-family home and this can include an attached garage. JADU information and requirements can be found on the JADU Zoning Ordinance.
Tiny homes on wheels (THOWs) are a type of ADU; they are allowed only on single-family properties and have different requirements and a simpler, lower-cost permit process. They are a lower-cost alternative to an ADU. Please read Bulletin 291-Tiny Home on Wheels Permit Checklist.
There are many benefits to ADUs, JADUs, and THOWs, including that they:
Preapproved ADUs. One way to lower the overall cost of an ADU is to work with a vendor who offers ADU designs that are preapproved by the City. See our Preapproved ADUs webpage for more information.
ADU legislation. If you're interested in the state legislation on ADUs — what’s allowed and where — see the California Department of Housing and Community Development’s Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units webpage. The City of San José enacts all state legislation pertaining to ADUs in its zoning code and our ADU Universal Checklist reflects state law.
How many ADUs have been permitted in San Jose? See our ADU Permit Activity Dashboards. We've been tracking permit issuance and construction of ADUs since 2015.
