ADU permit cost and fee breakdown in Alameda, California
GetYourPermit’s researched permit-fee range for a detached accessory dwelling unit in Alameda, with category estimates and direct reference links used in our investigation.
Prepared by GetYourPermit editorial teamReport an error
ADU size
California prohibits development impact fees for ADUs of 750 sq ft or less, so the 749 / 750 / 751 steps are worth comparing.
Estimated total
GetYourPermit researched range at 750 sq ft
$6,650 – $14,350
This estimate combines our fee-schedule research and project-planning experience. Actual charges vary by parcel, plans, valuation, utilities, and outside agencies.
Typical planning amount
$10,100
Modeled at the 600 sq ft reference.
Where the money goes
These are fee components within the permit process, not separate approvals.
- Separate planning / zoning fee$450 – $1,050
Shown only where the City bills Planning or zoning review as a separate fee.
- Building plan check$1,400 – $3,050
The Building Division’s review of the drawings; part of the Building Permit process.
- Building permit issuance$1,600 – $3,450
The permit issuance charge; where plan check is bundled, the combined amount is carried here.
- Separate trade permits$500 – $1,150
Shown separately only where electrical, plumbing, or mechanical permits are billed outside a combination permit.
- School district fees$1,800 – $3,200
Possible school-district developer fees based on current thresholds and scope.
- Utility fees$400 – $1,200
Possible water, sewer, electrical, meter, or capacity-related charges.
- Processing, inspection & records$350 – $850
Fixed processing, inspection, records, and administrative charges.
- Surcharges, taxes & state fees$150 – $400
Percentage surcharges, construction taxes, and State-mandated charges.
The darker segment is the low end of the range; the full bar is the high end.
Published fee references
Building permit issuance
The permit issuance charge; where plan check is bundled, the combined amount is carried here.
| Fee | Amount | Basis | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Current ADU Building Permit fees | Verify on the City’s official website | Verify on the City’s official website | Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)Location: ADU page, Permit Fees; Finance page, Master Fee Schedule 2026-27Confirms: The City directs applicants to the Permit Center for actual ADU fees. |
Impact fees
Development impact fees. Prohibited for ADUs of 750 sq ft or less.
| Fee | Amount | Basis | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADU/JADU Development Impact Fee | $0 | Flat fee | Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)Location: ADU page, Permit Fees, ‘Do development impact fees apply to ADUs?’Confirms: The City states that it does not apply Development Impact Fees to ADUs and JADUs because they are accessory uses to a primary residence. |
These are estimates, not official fees
Use these figures for early budgeting only. They are not a quote, not a government fee determination, and not legal advice. Actual fees depend on your parcel, your plans, your construction valuation, your utility provider, and the fee schedule in force on the day your permit is issued. Confirm every number with Alameda before you commit money.
City reference pages for verification
Back to Alameda · Permit process · Build a permit report · How we build these estimates