ADU permit process in Santa Rosa, 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
Submit Building Permit application and ADU documents
Prepare City-listed plans/documents Use online upload for eligible conversions or City digital/email route for detached ADUs ADU Building Permit application
- 2
City conducts completeness review
Pay application fees when City contacts applicant Address stated deficiencies Completeness result and, if needed, written deficiencies
- 3
City reviews complete ADU application
Respond to City written deficiencies/corrections when applicable City ADU decision
- 4
Schedule final Building inspection
Builder schedules final inspection through City system Final inspection result
- 5
Occupy ADU after passing final inspection
Obtain passing final inspection ADU may be occupied
What you need to submit
- Site, floor, foundation, cross-section, construction-detail and applicable elevation plans
- Soils Report and CalGreen Checklist
Project-specific next step
Build your Santa Rosa 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
- CityFee Schedule
The stable official City fee-schedule URL resolved on access to DocumentCenter record 16129, the current Version V2 fee-schedule PDF.
Accessed August 28, 2026
The effective July 1, 2026 fee schedule states that Santa Rosa building plan-check and inspection/permit fees are cost-based by occupancy and square footage, then publishes the R-3 per-square-foot rates and minimums.
Accessed August 28, 2026