Serving San Diego, Greater LA Area, Bay Area, & Seattle
Watch our free ADU webinar
Cottage
How it WorksFloor PlansFeatured Projects
Resources
For Partners
CareersAbout
Sign In
All ADU Regulations

Albany, California

Albany has updated its ADU ordinance to comply with new state laws. Below are the up-to-date requirements to build an ADU in the city.
Updated Sep 23, 2021

Zoning

All properties zoned for single family, two-family or multifamily may be eligible to build ADUs.

Number of units

The number of ADUs you’re able to build depends on how your lot is zoned:
  • Lots zoned for single family use may add 1 ADU and 1 Jr. ADU (JADU).
  • Lots zoned for two-family or multi-family may add up to 2 detached ADUs per lot or up to 25% of the existing units in the building if conversions of existing non-living space.

Building size

The maximum ADU you can build depends on the ADU type:
  • The maximum size is 500 sq. ft. for a JADU
  • For detached ADUs: 1000 sq. ft., OR ADUs shall not exceed 50% of the total area of the primary dwelling or 1,200 sq. ft., whichever is less. ADUs/JADUs shall not exceed the maximum lot coverage of the underlying zoning districts of the project site; however, lot coverage shall not be imposed for attached or detached ADUs less than or equal to 800 sq. ft.
  • Attached ADUs can be up to 1,200 sq. ft.

Building height

Detached ADUs can reach a maximum height of 16 feet. There are no height limits for conversions within existing, permitted structures. If property is located within a FEMA flood zone that requires elevated living area, the height may be greater than 16 ft but the interior ceiling height may not exceed 8 ft.

Setbacks

Minimum setbacks of 3 feet (can also go < 6 in w/ 1hr fire-rated walls) from the side and rear lot lines, as well as 6 feet from any existing structures are required for detached ADUs.

Parking

One parking spot required unless any of the following true:
  • The accessory dwelling unit is located within one-half mile walking distance of public transit.
  • The accessory dwelling unit is located within an architecturally and historically significant historic district.
  • The accessory dwelling unit is part of the proposed or existing primary residence or an accessory structure.
  • When on-street parking permits are required but not offered to the occupant of the accessory dwelling unit.
  • When there is a car share vehicle located within one block of the accessory dwelling unit.

Owner-occupancy

Owner occupancy is not a requirement for permitting an ADU from January 1, 2020 until January 1, 2025. This is a great opportunity for rental property owners to increase their yields in a cost-effective way.

Rental

While long-term rentals are permitted for ADUs, short-term rentals (e.g. Airbnb for less than 30 days) are not permitted in the city.

Watch-outs

Are you in a creek protection area? Do you have a utility easement over your property? Reach out to us and we’ll help you build a custom ADU to fit your unique property characteristics and local regulations!

Want to learn more about ADU regulations in your area?

Book a free consultation and estimate with a Cottage ADU Expert to find out what’s possible on your property!