ADU permit process in Novato, 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: permitinfo@novato.gov

Step by step

1
Submit Building Permit application, plans and documents
Create Novato Permits account Submit Building Permit application and City-required plans/documents Building Permit submittal
2
Planning and Building review complete application
Respond to City written deficiency comments if application is denied Approval, denial or written deficiencies/remedy comments
3
Receive Building Permit after City decision
Meet City permit requirements and fees Building Permit
4
Complete City field inspections
Use City inspection service after permit issuance Field inspection result

What you need to submit

Building Permit application
Declaration of Restrictions of Occupancy

Pre-approved ADU plans

Use Novato’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 Novato 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

CityMaster Fee Schedule
The City’s current FY2026-27 schedule supplies Building valuation, plan-review, MEP, and Planning-review fees.
Accessed August 28, 2026
CityAccessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units
The live City ADU page establishes the Building Permit route, City 750-square-foot impact-fee threshold, school-fee threshold, and external-layer conditions.
Accessed August 28, 2026