Introduction
Los Gatos, nestled in the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains, offers a picturesque backdrop for homeowners looking to expand their living spaces with Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). The town’s regulations are designed to balance growth with maintaining the unique charm of the area. By allowing ADUs, Los Gatos supports diverse housing options, sustainability, and community development. Whether you’re looking to create a space for extended family, a rental unit, or a personal retreat, understanding the local regulations is key. For expert guidance and seamless ADU development, ADU Specialist Bay Area is here to help.
Essential ADU Rules for Los Gatos
What you can build
Maximum size
Up to 1,200 square feet, tailored to lot size and existing structures.
Side / rear setbacks
Minimum 4 feet from side and rear property lines.
Two stories
Allowed with restrictions, ensuring neighborhood compatibility.
Building separation
Must maintain a minimum distance of 6 feet from the main house.
Permitting timeline
Standard
Permits typically processed within 60-90 days.
Coastal
Not applicable in Los Gatos, simplifying the process.
Zoning Regulations in Los Gatos
Los Gatos’ zoning laws are crafted to promote harmonious development. ADUs are permitted in most residential zones, ensuring flexibility. For specific details, refer to the town’s zoning map.
ADU Size Limitations
| Lot Size | Single-Family (Maximum Floor Area Allowed) | Duplex and Multi-Family (Maximum Floor Area Allowed) |
| Under 7000 | 700 sq ft | Not permitted |
| 7000 - 9999 | 850 sq ft | 1 ADU + 400 sq ft per existing unit (up to 1100 sq ft max) |
| 10000 - 12999 | 950 sq ft | 1 ADU + 450 sq ft per existing unit (up to 1100 sq ft max) |
| 13000 - 19999 | 1100 sq ft | 1 ADU + 500 sq ft per existing unit (up to 1100 sq ft max) |
| 20000+ | 1200 sq ft | 1 ADU + 550 sq ft per existing unit (up to 1200 sq ft max) |
ADU Height Limitations
ADUs can be up to 16 feet tall, ensuring they blend seamlessly with existing structures and surroundings.
Building Coverage
ADU coverage is limited to 50% of the main dwelling’s footprint, ensuring ample open space.
Location
| Property Type | Location Requirement |
| Single-Family Homes | Attached ADUs: Integrated within the main home. |
| Detached ADUs: Must be in the rear or side yard. | |
| Junior ADUs (JADUs): Within the primary residence. | |
| Duplex and Multifamily | Attached ADUs: Directly connected to the existing structure. |
| Detached ADUs: Situated in the rear or side yard. |
Exterior details
ADU designs must complement the primary residence, including materials, colors, and roof styles, to maintain neighborhood aesthetics.
Parking
One additional parking space is required per ADU unless the property is within half a mile of public transit.
Setbacks and buffer zones
Setbacks are crucial to maintaining privacy and space. Minimum setbacks include 4 feet from side and rear property lines.
Minimum Lot Area
| Lot Size | Minimum Lot Area for ADU | Description |
| Under 7000 | ADUs not permitted | Limited space restrictions |
| 7000 - 9999 | 7000 sq ft | Moderate-sized lots |
| 10000 - 12999 | 10000 sq ft | Larger lots |
| 13000 - 19999 | 13000 sq ft | Spacious lots |
| 20000+ | No minimum lot area requirement | Very spacious lots |
Connection for utilities
ADUs must be connected to the primary residence’s utilities, ensuring consistent and reliable service.
Fire safety
ADUs must comply with all local fire safety codes, including smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and accessible exits.
Room specifications
- Sleeping Areas: Must include at least one egress window for safety.
- Kitchen: Full kitchen required, including stove, sink, and refrigerator.
- Bathroom: Must have a toilet, sink, and shower or bathtub.
- Storage: Adequate storage space is required, including closets and cabinets.
Short-term Rentals and Home Occupations Regulations
Short-term rentals are allowed with proper permits. ADUs can also serve as home offices or studios.
Building Codes
All ADUs must comply with California Building Codes, ensuring safety and habitability.
Los Gatos ADU Permit Guidelines
| Permit Type | Description | Estimated Fee |
| Building Permit | Required for ADU construction. | $2500 - $5000 |
| Electrical Permit | For all electrical work. | $400 - $700 |
| Plumbing Permit | For plumbing installations. | $400 - $700 |
| Mechanical Permit | For HVAC systems. | $400 - $700 |
| Grading Permit | Required for land grading. | $300 - $500 |
| Site Development Permit | For site development activities. | $300 - $500 |
| Zoning Permit | Ensures compliance with zoning laws. | $200 - $400 |
Property requirements
Properties must comply with local zoning laws, building codes, and design standards to qualify for ADU development.
Parking
One off-street parking space is required per ADU, with exemptions for transit-adjacent properties.
Front setbacks
Front setbacks must be at least 20 feet, maintaining neighborhood character and openness.
Side and rear setbacks
Side and rear setbacks are typically 4 feet, providing privacy and space between properties.
Open space and rear yards
ADUs should leave sufficient open space in rear yards, ensuring a balance of built and green areas.
Properties that qualify
To determine your property’s eligibility for ADU development, contact the Los Gatos Planning Department.
- Verify that your property is within Los Gatos’ jurisdiction.
- Check the specific residential zones that permit ADUs. Common zones in Los Gatos include R-1, R-2, and R-M.
- Other General Plan designations that permit ADUs:
- Residential Mixed-Use (RMU): Encourages diverse housing options with mixed-use development.
- Transit-Oriented Development (TOD): Promotes ADUs near transit hubs to reduce reliance on cars.
- Specific Plan areas: Certain areas have customized plans supporting ADU development.
Development standards
Single-family
- Attached: Must share a common wall with the main house and follow design guidelines.
- Detached: Must be situated in the rear or side yard with compatible design elements.
Duplex properties
- Attached: Directly connected to the existing structure, adhering to design standards.
- Detached: Located in the rear or side yard, matching the primary building’s aesthetics.
Multifamily properties
- Attached: Incorporated within the existing building envelope.
- Detached: Positioned in the rear or side yard, maintaining consistency with existing structures.
Junior ADUs (JADUs)
JADUs are smaller units within the primary residence, typically converted from existing space such as a garage or basement.
Property designations
- Flood Zones: ADUs in flood zones must meet specific elevation and safety requirements.
- Geohazard Zones: Properties in geohazard zones require additional geological assessments.
- Historic Designation: ADUs on historically designated properties must preserve historical integrity.
- Easements: ADUs must not encroach on utility or access easements.
Summary
Los Gatos’ ADU regulations provide a framework for creating additional living spaces while maintaining the town’s character. By adhering to size, height, and setback requirements, homeowners can develop ADUs that enhance their properties and community. For expert assistance, ADU Specialist Bay Area can help navigate the process, ensuring compliance and a smooth development experience.
FAQ
Landscaping should complement the primary residence and include sufficient green space.
Historic properties must preserve their historical character, limiting modifications.
ADUs typically require additional property insurance coverage to account for the increased value.
Setbacks ensure adequate space and privacy, with minimum requirements of 4 feet from side and rear property lines.
ADUs must connect to the primary residence’s utilities, including water, sewer, electricity, and gas.
Adding an ADU may increase property taxes based on the added value of the new structure.
One additional off-street parking space is required, with exceptions for properties near public transit.
ADUs must comply with California Building Codes, ensuring safety and habitability standards.
Design standards ensure ADUs complement the primary residence, including materials, colors, and architectural style.
Zoning regulations define where ADUs can be built and ensure they fit within the community’s character.
ADU size is limited by lot size and existing structures, with a maximum of 1,200 square feet.
ADUs must meet energy efficiency standards, including insulation, windows, and HVAC systems.
ADUs must comply with local noise ordinances to minimize impact on neighbors.
Permit costs vary but generally range from $2,500 to $5,000, depending on the scope of work.
Occupancy standards ensure ADUs are safe and comfortable, typically limiting the number of occupants based on size.
Fire safety requirements include smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and accessible exits.
Short-term rentals are allowed with proper permits, following local regulations.
ADU design should consider privacy, including window placement and landscaping.
ADUs must have access to waste management services, including trash and recycling.
ADUs require a unique address and access to mail delivery services, ensuring proper identification and service.
