ADU permit process in Berkeley, 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 and Safety Division
- Permit portal
- City Online Portal System
Step by step
- 1
Check zoning and site conditions with Planning
Review City ADU information/FAQ and zoning standards For pre-approved design, contact Land Use Planning about zoning restrictions before selecting a design Property-specific zoning guidance
- 2
Submit ADU/JADU Building Permit application
Submit application in person at Permit Service Center or through Permits Online For an incomplete new-construction package, address City-listed corrections before formal review begins ADU/JADU Building Permit application
- 3
City reviews zoning and development-standard compliance
Respond to City correction list when the application is incomplete For a pre-approved design, use selected plan without design changes or submit as a new design Formal multi-agency review path
- 4
Complete pre-issuance deed restriction and address assignment
Record deed restriction with Alameda County Clerk Recorder Submit address assignment request and non-refundable City payment when the project is an ADU rather than JADU Required pre-issuance items
- 5
City inspection path after Building Permit
Complete City-required inspections according to permit conditions
What you need to submit
- Amnesty detailed plans and pre-submittal materials
- Address assignment request
- Recorded ADU/JADU deed restriction
Pre-approved ADU plans
Use Berkeley’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 Berkeley 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 current City schedule lists the valuation permit formula, 65% regular plan check, and 50%-of-regular pre-approved ADU plan check.
Accessed August 28, 2026
The City states all ADUs require a building permit and collects a $500 neighborhood-notice fee with a new ADU building-permit application.
Accessed August 28, 2026