How to Get an ADU Permit in Fresno
What Is an ADU?
An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a secondary, self-contained living space on a single-family residential lot. ADUs can be attached or detached from the primary residence and are typically used for:
Rental Income:Generate passive income by renting out your ADU.A
Multi-Generational Living:Provide housing for family members while maintaining privacy.
Home Office or Studio:Create a dedicated workspace or creative studio.
📝 How to Apply for an ADU Permit in Fresno
Determine Eligibility:Ensure your property is zoned for ADUs and meets size and setback requirements.
Choose a Plan:Select from the City of Fresno's pre-approved ADU plans or work with a designer to create a custom plan.
Prepare Documentation:Gather necessary documents, including site plans, elevation drawings, and utility connection details.
Submit Application: Apply through the Fresno Accela Citizen Access portal.
Pay Fees:Cover all applicable fees, including zone clearance and permit fees.
Schedule Inspections:Coordinate required inspections during construction.
Obtain Final Approval:Receive a Certificate of Occupancy upon successful completion.
📋 Key ADU Regulations in Fresno
Before applying for an ADU permit in Fresno, it's essential to understand the local regulations:
Zoning:ADUs are permitted in single-family residential zones.
Size Limits:ADUs can range from 150 to 1,200 square feet, depending on the lot size and configuration.
Height Restrictions:Detached ADUs can be up to 16 feet tall; attached ADUs can be up to 25 feet tall.
Setbacks:Minimum of 4 feet from rear and side property lines.
Parking:One parking space per bedroom is required, with exemptions near public transit.
Owner Occupancy:Not required for ADUs permitted from Jan 1, 2020, to Dec 31, 2024.
Rental Period:ADUs must be rented for periods longer than 30 days.
Fire Safety:Fire sprinklers may be required based on proximity to property lines and existing fire safety measures.
💰 How Much Does an ADU Permit Cost in Fresno?
| Permit Type | Description | Estimated Cost Range |
| Zone Clearance | Required for ADUs to verify compliance with zoning and safety guidelines. | $648 |
| Building Permit | Varies based on the size of the ADU; for example, a 700 sq. ft. unit may cost around $2,000. | Approximately $2,000 |
| Developer Fee | Charged by the Fresno Unified School District for residential construction. | $4.79 per sq. ft. |
| Fire Sprinkler System | May be required depending on proximity to property lines or if the primary residence has sprinklers. | Varies based on installation specifics. |
| Utility Connection Fees | Costs for connecting water, sewer, and electricity services to the ADU. | Varies; typically between $5,000 and $20,000 |
| Architectural & Engineering Fees | Professional fees for designing and planning the ADU. | $5,000 to $15,000 |
✅ Benefits of Building a Permitted ADU
Building a permitted ADU in Fresno offers several advantages:
Legal Compliance:Avoid fines and penalties associated with unpermitted structures.
Increased Property Value:ADUs can significantly boost your property's resale value.
Access to Financing:Easier to secure loans for permitted ADUs.
Peace of Mind:Ensure safety and quality through inspections and adherence to building codes.
