ADU permit cost and fee breakdown in Menlo Park, California
GetYourPermit’s researched permit-fee range for a detached accessory dwelling unit in Menlo Park, with category estimates and direct reference links used in our investigation.
Prepared by GetYourPermit editorial teamReport an error
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
$11,800 – $26,200
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
$18,200
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$800 – $1,800
Shown only where the City bills Planning or zoning review as a separate fee.
- Building plan check$3,100 – $6,900
The Building Division’s review of the drawings; part of the Building Permit process.
- Building permit issuance$3,600 – $8,000
The permit issuance charge; where plan check is bundled, the combined amount is carried here.
- Separate trade permits$1,400 – $3,000
Shown separately only where electrical, plumbing, or mechanical permits are billed outside a combination permit.
- School district fees$700 – $2,100
Possible school-district developer fees based on current thresholds and scope.
- Utility fees$1,500 – $3,000
Possible water, sewer, electrical, meter, or capacity-related charges.
- Processing, inspection & records$500 – $950
Fixed processing, inspection, records, and administrative charges.
- Surcharges, taxes & state fees$200 – $450
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
Plan check
Review of your drawings for code compliance.
| Fee | Amount | Basis | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADU building plan-check lookup | Verify on the City’s official website | Verify on the City’s official website | 2026 Adopted Master Fee ScheduleLocation: 2026 Master Fee Schedule, PDF page 24 onward, Building Plan Check Fee ScheduleConfirms: The City uses an official multi-variable lookup table; a City classification is required before selecting a numeric rate. |
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 Menlo Park before you commit money.
City reference pages for verification
Back to Menlo Park · Permit process · Build a permit report · How we build these estimates