ADU permit process in Saratoga, 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
- building@saratoga.ca.us
Step by step
- 1
Review City ADU standards and consult Planning
Review City standards and determine ADU/JADU type Contact Planning with questions Planning-compliant design direction
- 2
Complete conditional Planning review
Submit Planning application/materials when City requires that route Address planning compliance before Building Permit Planning-compliant permit package or City feedback
- 3
Submit ADU/JADU Building Permit materials to Building
Compile City Building Permit materials Submit materials to building@saratoga.ca.us Building Permit application
- 4
City Building plan review
Provide City-required plan package Permit-ready package or City comments
- 5
Address Planning review feedback when issued
Revise plans if City requests another review round Revised planning package
- 6
Receive Building Permit before construction
Begin construction only after Building Permit is issued Issued Building Permit
- 7
Schedule construction inspections online
Use City eTRAKiT portal to request applicable inspections Inspection scheduling and results
- 8
Pass final inspection before occupancy
Complete construction and final inspection Readiness for occupancy
What you need to submit
- Development application and technical-review checklist materials — only in some cases
- Building Permit application and Building plan package
Project-specific next step
Build your Saratoga 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
The current City adopted schedule gives valuation bands, 66% plan check, ICC Building Valuation Data with a 2.9 modifier, and directs deed-restricted ADU waivers to Appendix 1.
Accessed August 28, 2026
The City ADU handout says planning and building permit fees are waived for qualifying deed-restricted ADUs and identifies a separate impact-fee rule.
Accessed August 28, 2026
The City regulations state ADUs and JADUs are processed over-the-counter subject to a building permit, with specified design-review exceptions.
Accessed August 28, 2026