ADU Rules in Stockton

Stockton permits Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Junior ADUs (JADUs) on residential properties under California state law (Government Code §65852.2) and the city's Development Code (Title 16). The city offers pre-approved ADU plans to simplify construction.

What You Can Build

Single-Family Lots (RE, RL)

• One ADU (attached or detached) plus one JADU per lot
• Detached ADU: up to 1,200 square feet
• Attached ADU: up to 1,200 sq ft or 50% of existing living area, whichever is less
• JADU: up to 500 square feet within existing structure

Multifamily Lots (RM, RH)

• Conversion ADUs: Up to 25% of existing units (minimum 1)
• Detached ADUs: Up to 2 new detached ADUs per property

Size Limits

Setbacks

• Front setback: Must comply with base zone (15 ft in RL/RM)
• Side setback: 4 feet minimum for detached ADU
• Rear setback: 4 feet minimum for detached ADU
• Alley setback: 5 ft minimum (10 ft for garages with alley entrance)
• Conversion exception: Existing structures maintain current setbacks

Height

• Detached ADU: 16 feet maximum
• Attached ADU: Must not exceed height of primary dwelling
• Near transit: Up to 18 feet within ½ mile of a major transit stop
• Multifamily lots: Up to 25 feet

Parking

No additional parking is required for ADUs in Stockton. Garage conversions do not require replacement parking.

Owner Occupancy

• ADUs: Not required (per AB 976)
• JADUs: Owner must occupy either the JADU or primary residence

Rental Restrictions

• Minimum 30-day rental term required
• Short-term vacation rentals are prohibited
• ADUs may not be sold separately from the primary dwelling (except under AB 1033 conditions)

Pre-Approved Plans

Stockton offers pre-approved ADU plans in multiple configurations:

• Studio
• 1-bedroom
• 2-bedroom options

Using pre-approved plans can significantly reduce review time. Visit the Stockton ADU page for available plans.

Permit Process

ADU permits are processed through ministerial review — no public hearing or discretionary approval.

1. Verify zoning: Check your property using MapGeo or contact Planning at (209) 937-8266
2. Choose plans: Select a pre-approved plan or prepare custom plans
3. Submit application: File with the Building & Life Safety Division
4. Plan review: 60-day maximum for complete applications
5. Permit issuance: Receive building permit and begin construction
6. Inspections: Schedule required inspections during construction
7. Final approval: Certificate of Occupancy upon passing final inspection

The Planning Division is located at 501 W. Weber Avenue, Building 2, First Floor (New City Hall). Counter hours: Monday–Thursday, 8am–4:30pm.

Contact the Planning Division at (209) 937-8266.

Fees and Costs

• ADUs under 750 square feet are exempt from development impact fees
• Building permit and plan check fees apply
• Pre-approved plans may reduce plan check fees and timeline
• Utility connection fees may apply for detached ADUs

Key Considerations

• Stockton has significant flood-prone areas — check FEMA flood maps before building
• Development standards reference Table 2-3 (SMC Section 16.24.200) — verify specific setbacks for your zone
• The Port (PT) zone and Mixed Use (MX) zone have distinct ADU considerations
• Solar panels are required on new detached ADUs per California Energy Code
• Fire sprinklers required only if the primary dwelling has them
• Properties with alley access have specific garage setback requirements (10 ft for alley-facing garage entrances)

Official Resources

• Stockton ADU Information
• Stockton Development Code (eCode360)
• Stockton Interactive Map (MapGeo)
• Stockton Open Data - Zoning
• California Government Code §65852.2