ADU permit process in Capitola, 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 Division
- Permit portal
- City Online Portal System
Step by step
- 1
Confirm parcel and ADU review path
Review the City ADU page/guide and Chapter 17.74. Confirm with Planning whether administrative, Design and/or Coastal review applies. If using City plans, select a sample and submit the signed waiver to request the full set. Applicable review path and preliminary document scope
- 2
Submit Planning and Building applications
Submit the applicable Planning application/materials. Submit the complete Building application and files through iWorQ. For a compliant ministerial ADU, submit Planning and Building applications concurrently if desired. City ADU and Building Permit application records
- 3
City intake, access code, invoice and completeness
Respond to intake requests. Pay the invoiced application/plan-check fees using a City-published payment method. Access code/permit view and complete submittal accepted for review
- 4
Planning and Building review
Monitor the City record and await written decision/comments. Keep property-specific survey, soils/foundation and supporting materials current if using City plans. Approval/denial or written deficiency/correction comments
- 5
Address corrections and resubmit complete electronic set
Address each City/department comment. Email the routing form, full revised plan set, correction list and applicable response letters to Building. Resubmitted package for City re-review
- 6
Complete approvals, conditions and Building Permit issuance
Complete any required corrections and permit conditions. Pay remaining applicable permit fees and obtain the issued Building Permit before construction. Issued Building Permit authorizing construction
- 7
Construct under the issued permit
Build according to the issued permit and approved plans. Request required inspections as work becomes ready. Work ready for required inspections
- 8
Request and complete required Building inspections
Submit the City web form at least 48 hours before the preferred inspection date. Confirm the request if no confirmation email is received by the requested date. Complete required follow-up inspections based on City results. Inspection confirmations and results
What you need to submit
- Pre-designed ADU plan liability waiver — only in some cases
- Administrative Planning Permit application and applicable Planning materials
- Complete online Building Permit application
- Combined Building, site/grading, architectural, structural, MEP, demolition and elevation plans as applicable
- Structural calculations, Title 24 energy documents and soils report/review letter — only in some cases
- Resubmittal routing form, complete revised plan set, correction list and applicable department response letters — only in some cases
Project-specific next step
Build your Capitola 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
- Accessory Dwelling Units
- Apply for a Building Permit
- Capitola Municipal Code Chapter 17.74 — Accessory Dwelling Units
- Resource Guide for Accessory Dwelling Units
- Request a Building Inspection
- Addendum / Revision / Resubmittal Routing Form
- Liability Waiver for Use of City of Capitola Pre-Designed ADU Plans
Additional city reference pages
The City-hosted FY2026-27 schedule provides current ADU Design Permit fees, Building Permit valuation brackets, the combination-permit multiplier, Building Plan Check and Final Inspection, and the named City surcharges.
Accessed August 29, 2026
The live City page confirms that ADUs are allowed in qualifying residential locations, describes the pre-designed ADU plan program, and says its Level 1 path still requires site-specific Building staff review.
Accessed August 29, 2026
The City-linked ADU resource guide says the City may waive development fees for ADUs rented at affordable levels to low- or very-low-income households subject to a recorded deed restriction before Building Permit issuance.
Accessed August 29, 2026