ADU Rules: San Leandro vs Sunol
How do adu rules rules compare between San Leandro, CA and Sunol, CA?
San Leandro and Sunol have similar restriction levels.
San Leandro, CA
Alameda County
San Leandro must allow ADUs citywide under CA Gov Code 65852.2. Up to 1,200 sq ft detached or 50 percent of primary for attached, with streamlined ministerial approval.
View full San Leandro rules βSunol, CA
Alameda County
Sunol is an unincorporated CDP in Alameda County governed by Alameda County Code Title 17 (Zoning), specifically the new Chapter 17.55 (Accessory Dwelling Unit and Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit Ordinance) adopted by Ordinance O-2024-XX in 2024. The County allows one ADU plus one JADU on single-family lots in all residential zones with no minimum lot size, consistent with California Government Code Β§65852.2.
View full Sunol rules βKey Facts Comparison
| Fact | San Leandro | Sunol |
|---|---|---|
| Max Size | 1,200 sq ft detached | - |
| Setbacks | 4 ft side/rear | - |
| Review | 60 days ministerial | - |
| Parking | None near transit | - |
| JADU | Up to 500 sq ft | - |
| Governing Code | - | Alameda Co. Code Ch. 17.55 |
| Adopted | - | Ord. O-2024-XX (2024) |
| Max Detached ADU | - | 1,200 sq ft |
| Min Lot Size | - | None |
| Septic/Well | - | Alameda Co. EH review required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
San Leandro FAQ
Can San Leandro reject my ADU if it meets state standards?
No. If your ADU meets Gov Code 65852.2 standards, approval is ministerial and must be issued within 60 days.
Do I need to add parking for my ADU?
Not if the property is within half a mile of public transit, which covers most of San Leandro near BART and AC Transit corridors.
Sunol FAQ
Who regulates ADUs in Sunol?
Sunol is unincorporated, so the Alameda County Community Development Agency regulates ADUs under Alameda County Code Title 17, Chapter 17.55, adopted in 2024 to implement California Government Code Β§65852.2.
Is there a minimum lot size for a Sunol ADU?
No. Chapter 17.55 of the Alameda County Code (adopted 2024) eliminated the minimum lot size for ADUs in the unincorporated areas, consistent with state ADU law.
Do I need septic approval for a Sunol ADU?
Yes for parcels not on municipal sewer/water. Alameda County Environmental Health reviews septic-system capacity and well water before the building permit is issued.
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