GetYourPermit

ADU permit process in Menlo Park, 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
Contact
650-330-6704

Step by step

  1. 1

    Discuss ADU regulations with City teams

    Discuss proposed ADU regulations with Planning, Building and Engineering For a new ADU, begin Building Pre-Application through City portal City guidance and Building Pre-Application route

  2. 2

    Submit City ADU application and complete plan set

    Submit City ADU checklist, Building Permit Application and required plan materials Use Accela Building Pre-Application for a new house/ADU Ministerial ADU application

  3. 3

    City ministerial completeness review

    Address City incompleteness items and resubmit when required Complete or incomplete determination

  4. 4

    City ministerial approval or denial review

    Respond through a new review cycle if City denies or requests a resubmittal City approval or denial decision

  5. 5

    Schedule inspections through City online services

    Use City online services to schedule inspection Inspection scheduling

What you need to submit

  • City ADU Application Checklist
  • Building Permit Application Form
  • Complete architectural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing and structural plan set

Pre-approved ADU plans

Use Menlo Park’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 plans

Project-specific next step

Build your Menlo Park permit report

Choose your ADU type and size to bring the City process, researched permit fees, and early construction budget into one planning report.

Start my permit report

Sources for this guide

Additional city reference pages