ADU rules in Redwood City, CA — also called accessory dwelling unit regulations or granny flat ordinances — cover setbacks, owner-occupancy, parking, and permit requirements.
Redwood City allows ADUs in all residential zones. One-bedroom ADUs up to 850 sq ft; two+ bedrooms up to 1,000 sq ft. Detached height limit is 24 ft. 4-ft rear/side setbacks. ADUs cannot be STRs (except pre-2020 registrations).
Redwood City permits ADUs per California Government Code §65852.2. Detached ADUs have a 24-foot height limit (20-foot top of plate with 4-foot roof slope allowance). One-bedroom ADUs are limited to 850 sq ft; two-bedroom ADUs to 1,000 sq ft; JADUs to 500 sq ft. Minimum setbacks are 4 feet from rear and interior side property lines, 15 feet from front. No minimum lot size. No replacement parking required if a garage is converted. Permits range from approximately $3,469 to $4,615 in base fees depending on size.
Unpermitted ADU construction subject to code enforcement and fines.
Redwood City, CA
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Redwood City, CA
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Redwood City, CA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in San Mateo County.
See how other cities in San Mateo County handle adu rules.
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