Accessory Structures in Palo Alto, CA (2026)
5 verified accessory structures rules for Palo Alto, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
ADU Rules
Palo Alto regulates ADUs and JADUs under Palo Alto Municipal Code §18.42.040 (with updated provisions in PAMC Chapter 18.09). Attached ADUs are capped at 850 sq ft for studio/one-bedroom or 1,000 sq ft for two-or-more bedrooms, and may not exceed 50% of the primary dwelling. JADUs are limited to 500 sq ft within the existing single-family dwelling.
Palo Alto ADU Permit Requirements
Few RestrictionsShed Rules
Detached sheds up to 120 square feet and under 12 feet tall are exempt from building permits in Palo Alto, but zoning setback rules still apply. Larger sheds require permits.
Palo Alto Shed Rules
Few RestrictionsGarage Conversions
Palo Alto allows conversion of an existing garage or accessory structure to an ADU or JADU under PAMC §18.42.040 and California Government Code §65852.2. No replacement parking is required. A converted accessory structure may expand by up to 150 sq ft to accommodate ingress and egress.
Palo Alto Garage Conversion to ADU Rules
Few RestrictionsCarport Rules
Carports in Palo Alto are regulated as accessory structures under PAMC Title 18. They require building permits, must meet setbacks and height limits, and typically cannot be enclosed without converting to a garage.
Palo Alto Carport Rules
Some RestrictionsTiny Homes
Tiny homes on foundations are permitted in Palo Alto as ADUs when they meet the CA Residential Code. Movable tiny homes on wheels are generally not allowed as full-time dwellings.
Palo Alto Tiny Home Rules
Some RestrictionsLooking for Santa Clara County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Palo Alto city rules.
Accessory Structures in Santa Clara County →