ADU Rules: Brentwood vs El Cerrito
How do adu rules rules compare between Brentwood, CA and El Cerrito, CA?
Brentwood and El Cerrito have similar restriction levels.
Brentwood, CA
Contra Costa County
Brentwood must allow Accessory Dwelling Units on any single-family lot under California Government Code Section 65852.2, as expanded by AB 68, AB 881, and SB 13. Detached ADUs up to 800 sq ft with 4-foot setbacks are ministerial approvals processed within 60 days. AB 1033 now allows selling an ADU separately from the primary home.
View full Brentwood rules →El Cerrito, CA
Contra Costa County
Contra Costa County allows one ADU and one JADU on any residential lot by ministerial permit, consistent with AB 68/AB 881 and Gov. Code 65852.2. Detached ADUs up to 800 sq ft with 4-foot setbacks are permitted as of right, with 60-day review, no impact fees under 750 sq ft, and no replacement parking required near transit.
View full El Cerrito rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Brentwood | El Cerrito |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Units allowed | - | 1 ADU + 1 JADU per lot |
| Max detached ADU size | - | 800 sq ft ministerial; up to 1,200 sq ft |
| Setbacks | - | 4 ft side/rear (state minimum) |
| Processing time | - | 60 days ministerial |
| Short-term rental | - | Prohibited for ADUs (<30 days) |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Brentwood FAQ
El Cerrito FAQ
Do I need to provide a parking space for my new ADU?
No, if your property is within half a mile of public transit, in a historic district, or the ADU is a conversion of an existing garage. Otherwise one space is required, which can be in a driveway tandem.
Can I rent my ADU on Airbnb?
No. State law allows counties to prohibit ADU rentals under 30 days, and Contra Costa prohibits short-term rentals of ADUs.
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