ADU permit process in Albany, California
Last verified August 29, 2026
Prepared by GetYourPermit editorial teamReport an error
This guide includes the portions of the City permit process that passed our evidence review. Confirm project-specific requirements with the City before submitting.
Where to apply
- Department
- Building Department
- Permit portal
- City Online Portal System
Step by step
- 1
Review City ADU resources and property-specific conditions
Review City ADU page and ADU Handout. Consult City staff before finalizing design when Watercourse Overlay or other published conditions apply. For a pre-approved plan, confirm City-listed property eligibility before choosing a vendor. Published City conditions and any needed pre-submittal consultation
- 2
Prepare and submit ADU Building Permit materials
Complete the City Building Permit Application and ADU-specific checklist. Submit all required materials in PDF format using the City intake method confirmed for the current project. Building Permit application for City processing
- 3
City plan check and applicable Fire review
Provide all requested information and pay required plan-check fees before processing. Contact Fire Prevention before finalizing plans for applicable fire requirements. Plan-review processing or request for additional information
- 4
Provide requested information or changes
Respond to City requests for incomplete information or project changes using the applicable City permit channel. Updated application or plan-review material
- 5
Request construction inspections
Request inspections using Cloudpermit for Cloudpermit-issued permits or City phone/email route where applicable. Provide access and meet the published prerequisite for the requested inspection. Inspection result or reinspection need
- 6
Complete final inspection and applicable department approvals
Complete all applicable Planning & Zoning, Fire Department, Public Works, and Environmental Resources requirements before occupancy. Request final inspection when construction is complete. Final inspection determination
What you need to submit
- City of Albany Building Permit Application
- Grant deed, stamped site survey, and project plan set
- Fire, energy, utility, and stormwater materials
- Pre-approved ADU plan plus property-specific submittal package
Pre-approved ADU plans
Use Albany’s official page to confirm which designs, site conditions, and supplemental documents qualify. Plan-check timing still depends on the project and city review.
View pre-approved plansProject-specific next step
Build your Albany permit report
Choose your ADU type and size to bring the City process, researched permit fees, and early construction budget into one planning report.
Sources for this guide
Additional city reference pages
The City states that Council approves the annual Master Fee Schedule, fees are effective July 1, and links the current FY2026/27 Community Development schedule.
Accessed August 28, 2026
The current Community Development schedule provides City building-permit, plan-check, impact, technology, and State-fee rules.
Accessed August 28, 2026
The City handout, version February 2025, says all ADUs need a Building Permit, not separate Planning approval, and that the City does not require separate ADU utility meters or connections.
Accessed August 28, 2026