ADU permit cost and fee breakdown in Sausalito, California

GetYourPermit’s researched permit-fee range for a detached accessory dwelling unit in Sausalito, with category estimates and direct reference links used in our investigation.

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1 fee line

ADU size

California prohibits development impact fees for ADUs of 750 sq ft or less, so the 749 / 750 / 751 steps are worth comparing.

Estimated total

GetYourPermit researched range at 750 sq ft

$4,650 – $10,450

This estimate combines our fee-schedule research and project-planning experience. Actual charges vary by parcel, plans, valuation, utilities, and outside agencies.

Typical planning amount

$7,250

Modeled at the 600 sq ft reference.

Where the money goes

These are fee components within the permit process, not separate approvals.

  • Separate planning / zoning fee$550 – $1,150

    Shown only where the City bills Planning or zoning review as a separate fee.

  • Building plan check$1,400 – $3,100

    The Building Division’s review of the drawings; part of the Building Permit process.

  • Building permit issuance$1,600 – $3,400

    The permit issuance charge; where plan check is bundled, the combined amount is carried here.

  • Separate trade permits$550 – $1,100

    Shown separately only where electrical, plumbing, or mechanical permits are billed outside a combination permit.

  • School district fees$250 – $750

    Possible school-district developer fees based on current thresholds and scope.

  • Utility fees$100 – $500

    Possible water, sewer, electrical, meter, or capacity-related charges.

  • Processing, inspection & records$100 – $300

    Fixed processing, inspection, records, and administrative charges.

  • Surcharges, taxes & state fees$100 – $150

    Percentage surcharges, construction taxes, and State-mandated charges.

The darker segment is the low end of the range; the full bar is the high end.

Published fee references

Building permit issuance

The permit issuance charge; where plan check is bundled, the combined amount is carried here.

FeeAmountBasisSource
ADU Building and Zoning Permit fee lookupVerify on the City’s official websiteVerify on the City’s official website
Planning Forms & GuidelinesLocation: Planning Forms & Guidelines, Planning Applications and Fees

These are estimates, not official fees

Use these figures for early budgeting only. They are not a quote, not a government fee determination, and not legal advice. Actual fees depend on your parcel, your plans, your construction valuation, your utility provider, and the fee schedule in force on the day your permit is issued. Confirm every number with Sausalito before you commit money.

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