ADU Rules: Castro Valley vs Livermore
How do adu rules rules compare between Castro Valley, CA and Livermore, CA?
Castro Valley and Livermore have similar restriction levels.
Castro Valley, CA
Alameda County
Alameda County complies with California Government Code 65852.2 mandating ministerial ADU approval. ADUs up to 1,200 sqft for detached and JADUs up to 500 sqft are allowed on most residential lots.
View full Castro Valley rules →Livermore, CA
Alameda County
Livermore must allow ADUs under CA Gov Code §65852.2. Detached ADUs up to 800 sq ft with 4-ft setbacks, JADUs up to 500 sq ft, 60-day permit review.
View full Livermore rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Castro Valley | Livermore |
|---|---|---|
| State law | Gov Code 65852.2 | - |
| Detached ADU max | 1,200 sqft | - |
| JADU max | 500 sqft | - |
| Side/rear setback | 4 feet | - |
| Review time | 60 days ministerial | - |
| State Law | - | Gov Code §65852.2 |
| Detached Max | - | 800-1,200 sq ft |
| Setbacks | - | 4 ft rear/side |
| Permit Time | - | 60 days |
| JADU | - | Up to 500 sq ft |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Castro Valley FAQ
Do I need a public hearing?
No, ADUs are approved ministerially by county staff under state law; no planning commission or neighbor notice is required if the application meets objective standards.
Can I sell my ADU separately?
AB 1033 (2023) allows separate sale as condominium only if Alameda County opts in by local ordinance; check current county policy.
Livermore FAQ
Can I rent my Livermore ADU on Airbnb?
State law allows long-term rental (30+ days). Livermore's short-term rental rules may restrict or prohibit ADU use for stays under 30 days — check STR ordinance.
Do I need to add parking for my Livermore ADU?
Not if within ½ mile of transit or in certain historic/designated zones under state law. Otherwise, typically one space per unit or bedroom.
Compare other topics
See how Castro Valley and Livermore compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool