ADU permit process in Cupertino, 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
Consult Planning and optionally submit preliminary review
Talk to Planning about the ADU ordinance Optionally submit preliminary plans electronically for Planning review Planning guidance; optional preliminary review
- 2
Prepare and submit the Building Permit package
Prepare drawings/documents and Construction Permit Application For detached ADU, complete New Address Form Create ACA account and submit application to Permit Center Building Permit application and fee invoices
- 3
City routes plans for multi-department review
Create ProjectDox account when instructed Use ProjectDox to track progress, view comments and upload revised documents Plan-check round and correction notice when applicable
- 4
Pay invoiced fees and receive released permit documents
Pay remaining invoiced fees through ACA Submit signed permit electronically through ProjectDox Stamped/released approved plans and permit documents
- 5
Schedule and pass required inspection(s)
Follow City residential inspection procedures For JADU, obtain, notarize and record the Planning covenant Construction and inspection phase
What you need to submit
- Construction Permit Application
- New Address Form
- Pre-Approved Master Plan Package, Boundary Survey and Site Plan
Pre-approved ADU plans
Use Cupertino’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 Cupertino 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 FY 2025-26 Schedule D identifies a July 6, 2025 effective date and publishes dedicated ADU plan-check and inspection amounts by two square-foot bands.
Accessed August 28, 2026
The live Building Division forms page links the City's Building Fees schedule.
Accessed August 28, 2026
The City states that ADUs under 750 square feet do not incur City park or storm-drain impact fees; larger ADUs do, while school fees are determined by school districts.
Accessed August 28, 2026