Oakland ADU Standards
Prefab ADU in Oakland
What is an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)?
An ADU is an independent residential unit located on the same lot as a primary home, providing additional living space, rental opportunities, or housing for multiple generations. A prefab ADU is a permanent, factory-built backyard home that complies with local zoning and building codes, making it ideal for long-term use.
Tiny homes—often confused with prefab ADUs—are small, mobile units built on wheels. While both can serve as ADUs, prefab ADUs are stationary and built to last, whereas tiny homes face more zoning challenges due to their mobility.
Planning to Build an ADU in Oakland?
With updated ADU regulations in place, Oakland has seen an increase in accessory dwelling unit construction. If you’re considering building an ADU in Oakland, LiveLarge is here to help you navigate the key development requirements for a smooth and successful project.
Types of ADUs:
- Detached: New construction that is separate from the primary structure.
- Attached: New construction that is physically connected to the primary structure.
- Conversion: Existing space within a primary residence or detached accessory structure converted into an ADU.
- Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU): A unit of up to 500 square feet created by converting existing space within a single-family home.
Zoning and Lot Size
- Single-Family Homes: You can build one JADU (from interior space), one ADU from a converted space (like a garage), and one attached or detached ADU—up to three units total per lot, if they follow building code rules.
- Multi-Family Properties:
- Convert non-livable areas (like storage or garages) into ADUs—up to 25% of existing units or one per building (whichever is more).
- Add up to two new attached or detached ADUs per lot.
- Add one ADU that’s attached to or part of the main building.
This framework offers flexible options to increase housing while meeting safety and compliance standards.
Size and Floor Area
Attached ADU:
0-1 Bedroom: Max 850 sq ft
2 Bedrooms: Max 1,000 sq ft
Cannot exceed 50% of main home’s size
Detached ADU:
0-1 Bedroom: Max 850 sq ft
2 Bedrooms: Max 1,000 sq ft
JADU: Max 500 sq ft
Setbacks and Height
- Attached ADU:
- 4-foot side/rear setbacks
- Height: 16 ft
- Detached ADU:
- 4-foot side/rear setbacks
- 6-foot from primary residence
- Front setback per zoning
- Height: 16 ft
- Conversion of Existing Area:
- No setbacks for existing structures or rebuilding in the same footprint
- JADU:
- 4-foot side/rear setbacks
Parking Requirements
- Single-Family ADUs: No parking required if the unit is:
- Within ½ mile of a public transit stop
- In a City of Oakland Area of Primary or Secondary Importance (API or ASI)
- In a permit parking zone where ADU occupants are not eligible for permits
- Within one block of a carshare vehicle
- Part of the existing or proposed main residence or accessory structure
- Otherwise: One space per ADU (tandem parking is allowed).
- Multi-Family ADUs: One space required unless the same exemptions apply as above.
For more information, contact the Oakland Planning Division at (510) 238-3911 or email oakplancounter@oaklandca.gov.
Why Choose LiveLarge for Your ADU?
LiveLarge Prefab ADUs are designed to meet Oakland’s detached ADU regulations, offering a hassle-free way to maximize your property value. With pre-approved designs and expert guidance, we streamline the approval and construction process.
Let LiveLarge be your trusted partner on your ADU journey in Oakland. From design to construction, we ensure your project aligns with local standards and unlocks your property’s full potential. Contact us today to get started!
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