The City of Oakland’s Planning & Building department just made it easier to submit plans and get Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) projects approved through a new online portal.
An ADU is categorized as an attached or detached dwelling located on the same lot as a single-family home, that provides independent living for one or more people, including permanent facilities for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation. Adding an ADU to a residential property is one way to help address the current state-wide housing shortage crisis. The department recognized the importance of making the process easier and more accessible for the community.
“Building an ADU is one option for Oakland residents to help meet the need for housing across our communities,” said Planning & Building Director William Gilchrist. “The department shall continue to focus on ways to facilitate the processing and approval of permits. We encourage those building ADUs in Oakland to use this new system to expedite service.”
To submit ADU plans, customers will review their zoning and building requirements, download the ADU app from the City website, and upload documents using the Digital Inbox. A step-by-step process can be found at: https://www.oaklandca.gov/topics/secondary-units
Once received, a Planning & Building representative will reach out to schedule an appointment for reviewing and approving project plans. To learn more about this app and other policies and options relating to ADUs visit: https://www.oaklandca.gov/topics/secondary-units.
Department Contact Information:
Planning Counter (510) 238-3911 | Building Counter (510) 238-3891
Customers can leave a message and receive a return phone call within 48 hours.
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