City · California
ADU rules in San Jose
4 sources
These are the primary sources for accessory dwelling unit regulations in San Jose: the city's own zoning code, planning department pages, and permit guides. Start here before talking to anyone: the rules below are what your permit reviewer will apply.
ADU regulations
- sanjoseca.govOfficial sourceReviewed July 2026https://www.sanjoseca.gov/business/development-services-permit-center/accessory-dwelling-units-adus
- sanjoseca.govOfficial sourceReviewed July 2026https://www.sanjoseca.gov/business/development-services-permit-center/accessory-dwelling-units-adus/adu-ordinance-updates
- sanjoseca.govOfficial sourceReviewed July 2026https://www.sanjoseca.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/39038/638549344049500000
- library.municode.comOfficial sourceVerified July 2026Code of Ordinances §20.200.324https://library.municode.com/ca/san_jose/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=TIT20ZO_CH20.200DE_20.200.324DWJUACDWUNJA
California statewide law also applies
California sets baseline ADU rights at the state level. Where local rules are stricter than state law allows, state law usually wins, so both are worth reading.
See California statewide rulesSpotted something outdated?
Zoning codes change. If a link is dead or San Jose has updated its ordinance, report it and we'll verify against the official source.
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