ADU permit process in Pleasant Hill, 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
Identify ADU class, site constraints and permit route
Review City ADU page, 2026 handout and code Select custom or City pre-approved plan route Confirm project-specific planning, site and agency conditions Proposed permit route and document scope
- 2
Submit City permit application and complete electronic plan package
Create/sign in to PHill Submit permit application Upload application, plans and applicable supporting files City application received for completeness and review
- 3
City determines ADU/JADU application completeness
Provide itemized missing information when City issues an incomplete notice Written complete determination or itemized incomplete notice
- 4
Pay initial plan-review invoice when technical review applies
Pay the invoiced 50 percent permit fee through PHill Payment verified and case moved into plan review
- 5
City performs ministerial and multidisciplinary plan review
Monitor case status and respond to City requirements Discipline approvals or correction comments
- 6
Receive emailed correction notice
Review City correction comments Revise application, plans and applicable supporting material Revised complete-file resubmittal package
- 7
Upload complete revised files through PHill
Upload complete replacement APP/PLANS/SUPP files rather than changed sheets only Use the City cycle/file naming convention Revised package returned to City review
- 8
Obtain applicable outside-agency and utility clearances
Coordinate with applicable fire protection, sanitary and water authorities Upload or present required approvals Applicable agency permits or clearances
- 9
Resolve outstanding items and pay final permit fees
Satisfy outstanding City items Pay final fees through PHill Issuance payment and outstanding items completed
- 10
Receive permit and approved Job Site Copy
Download or receive approved documents Print and keep the Job Site Copy at the project site Issued permit and approved Job Site Copy
- 11
Request available inspections through PHill
Use the permit inspection tab after the workflow reaches inspection Select an available inspection action, requested date and AM/PM window Submitted inspection request and inspection records/status
- 12
Satisfy final occupancy conditions when applicable
For a JADU, record the required deed restriction before Certificate of Occupancy Complete final requirements identified by City Certificate of Occupancy when applicable; general administrative close marker not published
What you need to submit
- Electronic APP, PLANS and applicable SUPP PDF package
- Selected City pre-approved plan set, signed license and project/style information — only in some cases
- Residential Building Permit & Zoning Application
- Scaled property-specific site or plot plan
- Applicable outside-agency permit or clearance documentation — only in some cases
- Recorded JADU deed restriction — only in some cases
Pre-approved ADU plans
Use Pleasant Hill’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 Pleasant Hill 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 (ADUs) / Pre-Approved Accessory Dwelling Units
- Building Division
- Pleasant Hill Municipal Code 18.15.050 — Accessory dwelling units and junior accessory dwelling units
- PHill CSS — How to Apply for Permit
- PHill CSS — Inspections
- Electronic Plan Submittal Guide
- General Information and Submittal Requirements
- Accessory Dwelling Unit Handout
- Pleasant Hill Pre-Approved ADU Plan 1 — 350 square-foot studio
- Pleasant Hill Pre-Approved ADU Plan 2 — 636 square-foot one bedroom
- Pleasant Hill Pre-Approved ADU Plan 3 — 798 square-foot two bedrooms
- Residential Building Permit & Zoning Application
Additional city reference pages
The live City ADU page says pre-approved plans still require a Building Permit and outside-agency clearance, and identifies outside fire, sanitary, and water providers.
Accessed August 28, 2026
The City handout states all new ADUs and JADUs require Building Permit approval and some require a separate ADU Permit based on size or location.
Accessed August 28, 2026