ADU Rules: Fremont vs San Leandro
How do adu rules rules compare between Fremont, CA and San Leandro, CA?
Fremont and San Leandro have similar restriction levels.
Fremont, CA
Alameda County
Fremont follows CA Gov Code 65852.2: ADUs up to 1,200 sq ft allowed on most residential lots, plus Junior ADUs. Ministerial 60-day review. No owner-occupancy through 2025.
View full Fremont rules →San Leandro, CA
Alameda County
San Leandro Zoning Code §2.04.388 allows one detached ADU and one JADU per single-family lot through ministerial review, implementing California Government Code §§65852.1, 65852.2 and 65852.22.
View full San Leandro rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fremont | San Leandro |
|---|---|---|
| Max Detached Size | 1,200 sq ft | - |
| Setback Minimum | 4 ft side and rear | - |
| Parking | Often waived near transit | - |
| Review Time | 60 days ministerial | - |
| JADU | Up to 500 sq ft in primary home | - |
| Code section | - | Zoning Code §2.04.388 |
| Review type | - | Ministerial (60-day clock) |
| Units allowed | - | 1 ADU + 1 JADU per single-family lot |
| Max height (detached) | - | 16 ft |
| Max height (attached) | - | 25 ft |
| Side/rear setback | - | 4 ft |
| Parking required | - | None |
| State framework | - | Gov. Code §§65852.1, 65852.2, 65852.22 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fremont FAQ
Can I rent my Fremont ADU on Airbnb?
ADUs cannot be rented for terms under 30 days. Fremont prohibits short-term rental of ADUs to preserve housing stock. Long-term rentals of 30 days or more are fully permitted.
Do I need to live on the property if I build an ADU?
No owner-occupancy is required through January 1, 2025, under state law. JADUs always require owner occupancy of either the JADU or the main house. After 2025, Fremont may reimpose owner-occupancy for new ADUs.
San Leandro FAQ
Do I need a public hearing to build an ADU in San Leandro?
No. Per §2.04.388, ADU and JADU applications are reviewed ministerially and must receive a decision within 60 days of a complete submittal under California Gov. Code §65852.2.
How tall can my detached ADU be?
Up to 16 feet for a detached ADU on a single-family lot. Attached ADUs may be up to 25 feet, matching the primary dwelling height standard in §2.04.388.
Will I need to add a parking space?
No. San Leandro does not require replacement or additional parking for ADUs, consistent with California Gov. Code §66323.
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