GetYourPermit

ADU permit process in Visalia, 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 Safety Division
Permit portal
City Online Portal System
Contact
559-713-4444

Step by step

  1. 1

    Review City plans and meet Planning/Building staff for pre-approved-plan feasibility

    Review City Permit-Ready plan and requirement links Meet City Planning and Building staff to discuss property feasibility City staff discussion of property concerns, including potential easements or flood zones

  2. 2

    Prepare site-specific materials and submit the ADU/JADU Building Permit application

    Prepare City-listed application materials For City pre-approved plans, submit the Hold Harmless Agreement to receive full plans and prepare the site plan Submit application and required materials to the City ADU/JADU Building Permit application for City review

  3. 3

    City plan-check review

    Provide complete information and demonstrate applicable City development standards City plan-check review result

  4. 4

    Receive Building Permit after City review

    Receive City direction regarding permit fees and further information Building Permit path

What you need to submit

  • Pre-Approved ADU Program Hold Harmless Agreement
  • Building Permit Application
  • Fire Sprinkler Plans and Flow Report — only in some cases
  • Property-specific site plan
  • Truss Calculations

Pre-approved ADU plans

Use Visalia’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 Visalia 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