ADU/JADU Information
What is an ADU?
An accessory dwelling unit (ADU), also known as a “mother-in-law” or “granny flat,” is an attached or detached residential dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons on the same parcel as the main dwelling unit. This includes permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation. An ADU can be an efficiency unit, as defined in Section 17958.1 of Health and Safety Code, or a manufactured home, as defined in Section 18007 of the Health and Safety Code.
Can I have an ADU on my property?
ADUs may be permitted on lots where there is an existing or proposed single or multi-family dwelling.
What is a JADU?
A series of new State housing laws took effect January 1, 2020 which created a new land use definition for a junior accessory dwelling unit (JADU). A JADU is a residential dwelling unit that is no more than 500 square feet in area, contained entirely within an existing single-family residence, and can have separate sanitation facilities from, or shared sanitation facilities with, the existing residence.
Can I have a JADU on my property?
One detached ADU and one JADU may be permitted on any lot with an existing single-family dwelling.
Let's Get Started!
Step One
Find your zoning district using the City’s Public Interactive Zoning Map
Step Two
Review the Chico ADU Development Standards to determine the size, placement and design requirements for your ADU project.
Step Three
Find your best fit! When it comes to ADU designs, you’ve got two choices:
OPTION A – CUSTOM DESIGN
For some people, the project is half the fun! If you’re looking to customize the size, layout and look of your ADU, hire an experienced professional to draw the plans to bring your dream design to life!
OPTION B – PRE-APPROVED ADU PROGRAM
Looking to save a little time and expense? Check out the City’s ADU Catalog to browse the designs that have been pre-approved by the Building Division.
Step Four
Review and complete the ADU Details Questionnaire & Site Plan Checklist. When your ADU plans address all of the items on the checklist, you’re ready to submit your construction plans.
Free Preapproved ADU Building Plans Available!
Free Preapproved ADU Building Plans Available!
Free Preapproved ADU Building Plans Available!
The City of Chico received an SB 2 grant (Building Homes and Jobs Act) to stimulate housing production by amending Codes and instituting programs to make housing production easier and less restrictive. With these grant funds the City had Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) building plans prepared and plan checked for use free of charge to Chico residents. The ADU plans come in three (3) different sizes of 496 square feet (SF), 599 SF and 749 SF, and in 13 different single-story design variations, and a 2-story 599 SF plan with parking below. Design options include wood-sided tongue and groove finishes, stucco exteriors, and a vaulted ceiling/roof with clear story living spaces. The floor plans are reversable, which means that they can be flipped with the entrance and orientation on one side or another. There is also a Universal Design floor plan option with wider accessible entrances and a larger bathroom to accommodate a wheelchair. Fees for the building permit, site plan review, and building permit inspections still apply. Please see the ADU Homeowners Guide for further information and a step-by-step guide for utilizing these preapproved plans for your property.
ADU Advisory for Properties on Septic and Wells
ADU Advisory for Properties on Septic and Wells
ADU Advisory for Properties on Septic and Wells
***Attention: All property owners on septic systems or wells need to check with the Butte County Environmental Health Department by clicking here for their website or calling (530) 552-3880 on the regulations and requirements that pertain to ADUs on septic systems or wells.***
First-Hand Experience from Do-It-Yourselfers
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs) provide housing opportunities within existing neighborhoods that are more affordable due to their smaller size and use of existing infrastructure. These additional units help diversify the market for renters while proving supplemental income for homeowners, thus increasing affordability throughout the City.CalHFA introduces ADU Grant Program for Low- to Moderate-Income owners to assist with pre-development costs.
For more information, visit www.calhfa.ca.gov or
Call 877.9.CalHFA (877.922.5432)
Call 877.9.CalHFA (877.922.5432)
ADU Construction Financing also available through CalHFA approved ADU lenders.
First-Hand Experience from Do-It-Yourselfers
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs) provide housing opportunities within existing neighborhoods that are more affordable due to their smaller size and use of existing infrastructure. Here is a follow-up video on how Lauren and Seth built their ADU.
Check out staff’s answers to the most frequently asked questions regarding accessory dwelling units.
Still have questions?
Contact the Planning Division at (530) 879-6800 or by email.
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs) provide housing opportunities within existing neighborhoods that are more affordable due to their smaller size and use of existing infrastructure. These additional units help diversify the market for renters while proving supplemental income for homeowners, thus increasing affordability throughout the City.
Find helpful information to get started, including the ADU Catalog, Homeowner's Guide, and documents to get you started.