ADU permit process in Burlingame, 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
- Permit portal
- City Online Portal System
Step by step
- 1
Confirm ADU type and any applicable Planning conditions
Review City ADU Development Guide Contact Planning for project discussion or applicable new-structure approval Applicable City ADU/Planning conditions
- 2
Submit complete Building Permit application and PDF plan package
Select applicable permit type Create eTRAKiT account and upload complete PDF package, or use City Building submission route Building Division application submittal
- 3
Building distributes plans and City routes complete paid submissions for review
Pay when City requests payment Await City notice of comments or next steps Plan-review comments or approved package
- 4
Resubmit plan-check responses or active-permit revisions
Email Building for resubmittal instructions Submit responses to plan-check comments or revisions Resubmittal for City processing
- 5
Complete remaining City items, pay fees and receive permit materials
Complete any City-listed remaining items Follow City payment instructions Receive permit card/plans by email or download link and retain at job site Permit card and plans
- 6
Request Building inspections
Call or email Building Inspections Keep permit card and plans at job site Inspection request and result
What you need to submit
- Complete PDF ADU Building Permit submittal package
- Plan-check response and revisions — only in some cases
Pre-approved ADU plans
Use Burlingame’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 Burlingame 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 current Master Fee Schedule is effective July 1, 2026 and lists Building, Plan Review, Sewer Capacity, and Water Capacity fees.
Accessed August 28, 2026
The City states a Building Permit is required for a new ADU or JADU and applications are submitted directly to the Building Division.
Accessed August 28, 2026