Accessory dwelling units (ADUs), also known as “in-law units” or “granny units”, are residential dwelling units that are subordinate to a primary dwelling on the same lot. ADUs provide complete independent living facilities for one or more persons including permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation. ADUs are allowed on both single-family and multi-family properties. The City's ADU regulations are in Section 17.26.040 of the Zoning Code (Title 17 of the Newark Municipal Code).

There are three types of ADUs:

Attached ADU - A newly constructed unit attached to the primary dwelling

ADU - Attached

 

 

Detached ADU - A newly constructed detached unit or an addition to an existing detached accessory structure

ADU - Detached

 

Conversion ADU - An interior area within an existing or proposed primary dwelling or existing accessory structure converted into an ADU

ADU - Garage Conversion

 

Junior Accessory Dwelling Units

The City allows Junior ADUs (JADUs), which are units up to 500 square feet in size contained within the walls of an existing or proposed primary residence. JADUs must include an efficiency kitchen that features a cooking facility with appliances and a food preparation counter and storage cabinets that are of reasonable size in relation to the size of the JADU. A JADU may either include a bathroom or share bathroom facilities within the primary residence. No additional off-street parking is required for a JADU.

Next Steps 

  1. Contact the Planning Division to discuss your project, the applicable regulations, confirm if the project may require design review, and to ask any questions. Most ADU projects will only require a building permit, but if an ADU is proposed as a second story addition that is taller than 16 feet, design review is required.
  2. Review the City’s ADU regulations and all other applicable zoning regulations in the Zoning Code.
  3. Reach out to your local utility providers such as Union Sanitary District, Alameda County Water District, and PG&E to ask if they have any requirements for your project.
  4. Contact the Building Inspection Division for more information on how to apply for a building permit and the submittal requirements. Generally, your application package should include a site plan, floor plans, elevations, and drawings as required by the Building Inspection Division.
  5. Prepare your proposal and submittal package. It is recommended that you work with experienced professionals who can assist you with the permit and construction processes.
  6. Submit your building permit application to the Building Inspection Division. Building staff will provide you with the required fees and timeline for review.

ADU Deed Restriction

A deed restriction, which shall run with the land, must be filed and recorded with Alameda County for the ADU prior to the Final Building Inspection. You may use the City's ADU Deed Restriction template.

Impact Fees

Impact fees are required for development projects to help pay for all or a portion of the costs of providing public services to the development. Impact fees are not applicable to ADUs with a floor area less than 750 square feet. If an ADU is 750 square feet or more, impact fees are charged proportionately in relation to the square footage of the primary dwelling unit. Impact fees are typically updated at the start of every fiscal year.

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