ADU permit cost and fee breakdown in Burlingame, California
GetYourPermit’s researched permit-fee range for a detached accessory dwelling unit in Burlingame, with category estimates and direct reference links used in our investigation.
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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
$12,400 – $18,830
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
$15,450
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 – $950
Shown only where the City bills Planning or zoning review as a separate fee.
- Building plan check$1,600 – $2,750
The Building Division’s review of the drawings; part of the Building Permit process.
- Building permit issuance$2,450 – $4,050
The permit issuance charge; where plan check is bundled, the combined amount is carried here.
- School district fees$2,700 – $3,900
Possible school-district developer fees based on current thresholds and scope.
- Utility fees$4,800 – $6,300
Possible water, sewer, electrical, meter, or capacity-related charges.
- Processing, inspection & records$220 – $480
Fixed processing, inspection, records, and administrative charges.
- Surcharges, taxes & state fees$180 – $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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Valuation-based building permit | Set by City formula | Formula | Fiscal Year 2026-27 Master Fee ScheduleLocation: FY 2026-27 Master Fee Schedule, page 1, Building Permit Fees Based on Total ValuationConfirms: The current City schedule specifies the valuation bands and ICC multiplier for Building Permit calculation. |
Plan check
Review of your drawings for code compliance.
| Fee | Amount | Basis | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Building plan review | 65% formula | Formula | Fiscal Year 2026-27 Master Fee ScheduleLocation: FY 2026-27 Master Fee Schedule, page 1, Plan Review FeesConfirms: The current City schedule lists the Basic Fee — Building Division plan review as 65% of Building Permit Fee. |
Utility connection
Water, sewer, and electrical connection or capacity charges.
| Fee | Amount | Basis | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADU sewer capacity charge | $5.00 / sq ft | Per square foot | Fiscal Year 2026-27 Master Fee ScheduleLocation: FY 2026-27 Master Fee Schedule, page 24, Sewer Capacity ChargesConfirms: The City current sewer table lists ADU greater than 150 square feet at $5 per square foot. |
| ADU water capacity charge | $3.00 / sq ft | Per square foot | Fiscal Year 2026-27 Master Fee ScheduleLocation: FY 2026-27 Master Fee Schedule, page 25, Water Capacity ChargesConfirms: The City current water table lists ADU greater than 150 square feet at $3 per square foot. |
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 Burlingame before you commit money.
City reference pages for verification
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