Introduction
San Ramon’s regulations regarding Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are designed to support sustainable growth while preserving the character of its neighborhoods. These rules ensure that ADUs are built safely and aesthetically, contributing positively to the community. For those navigating the complexities of ADU regulations, ‘ADU Specialist Bay Area’ offers expert guidance and support, helping homeowners understand and comply with local requirements.
Essential ADU Rules for San Ramon
What you can build
Maximum size
ADUs can be up to 1,200 sq ft.
Side / rear setbacks
Minimum 4 feet required.
Two stories
Two-story ADUs are allowed.
Building separation
Minimum 10 feet from the main house.
Permitting timeline
Standard
Typically processed within 60 days.
Coastal
Not applicable as San Ramon is not a coastal area.
Zoning Regulations in San Ramon
San Ramon’s zoning regulations for ADUs ensure compatibility with existing neighborhoods and land use plans, supporting various residential zones.
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 | 800 sq ft | 1 ADU + 400 sq ft per existing unit (up to 1200 sq ft max) |
| 10000 - 12999 | 900 sq ft | 1 ADU + 450 sq ft per existing unit (up to 1200 sq ft max) |
| 13000 - 19999 | 1000 sq ft | 1 ADU + 500 sq ft per existing unit (up to 1200 sq ft max) |
| 20000+ | 1200 sq ft | 1 ADU + 600 sq ft per existing unit (up to 1200 sq ft max) |
ADU Height Limitations
San Ramon allows ADUs up to 16 feet in height to maintain neighborhood aesthetics.
Building Coverage
The ADU must not exceed 50% of the existing primary dwelling’s footprint.
Location
| Property Type | Location Requirement |
| Single-Family Homes | Attached ADUs: Same lot as primary residence |
| Detached ADUs: Must be within 30 feet of primary residence | |
| Junior ADUs (JADUs): Must be within the existing primary residence | |
| Duplex and Multifamily | Attached ADUs: Allowed within existing building footprint |
| Detached ADUs: Must be within 30 feet of primary residence |
Exterior details
ADUs in San Ramon must complement the primary residence in design, color, and materials to ensure visual harmony.
Parking
One off-street parking space is required for each ADU, unless the property is within half a mile of public transit.
Setbacks and buffer zones
San Ramon requires a minimum setback of 4 feet from side and rear property lines for ADUs, with additional buffer zones for environmental protection.
Minimum Lot Area
| Lot Size | Minimum Lot Area for ADU | Description |
| Under 7000 | ADUs not permitted | Not suitable for ADU development |
| 7000 - 9999 | 7000 sq ft | Adequate space for a single ADU |
| 10000 - 12999 | 10000 sq ft | Suitable for medium-sized ADU |
| 13000 - 19999 | 13000 sq ft | Sufficient for larger ADU projects |
| 20000+ | No minimum lot area requirement | Flexible ADU placement possible |
Connection for utilities
ADUs in San Ramon must have independent utility connections, including water, sewage, and electricity, to ensure self-sufficiency and compliance with local codes.
Fire safety
Fire safety measures for ADUs in San Ramon include mandatory smoke detectors, fire alarms, and fire-resistant building materials to protect residents.
Room specifications
- Sleeping Areas: Must include proper egress windows and comply with local building codes.
- Kitchen: Fully equipped with sink, stove, and refrigerator to meet local health and safety standards.
- Bathroom: Must include at least a toilet, sink, and shower or bath.
- Storage: Adequate storage space must be provided within the ADU for resident needs.
Short-term Rentals and Home Occupations Regulations
Short-term rentals of ADUs are subject to San Ramon’s regulations, requiring registration and adherence to occupancy limits. Home occupations are allowed if they do not significantly alter the residential character.
Building Codes
ADUs must comply with all local, state, and federal building codes, including structural, electrical, plumbing, and mechanical standards.
San Ramon ADU Permit Guidelines
| Permit Type | Description | Estimated Fee |
| Building Permit | Required for ADU construction. | $3000 - $6000 |
| Electrical Permit | Required for new electrical systems. | $500 - $800 |
| Plumbing Permit | Required for new plumbing systems. | $500 - $800 |
| Mechanical Permit | Required for HVAC installations. | $500 - $800 |
| Grading Permit | Required for land alterations. | $400 - $600 |
| Site Development Permit | Required for site improvements. | $400 - $600 |
| Zoning Permit | Ensures compliance with zoning regulations. | $300 - $500 |
Property Requirements
Properties in San Ramon must meet specific criteria for ADU development, including zoning, lot size, and compliance with local building codes to ensure safe and sustainable construction.
Parking
Adequate parking must be provided, typically one additional space per ADU, unless exceptions apply.
Front setbacks
Front setbacks for ADUs must align with the existing neighborhood standards, typically 20 feet from the front property line.
Side and rear setbacks
Side and rear setbacks must be at least 4 feet to ensure privacy and safety.
Open space and rear yards
ADUs must not encroach on required open spaces or rear yards, preserving the aesthetic and functional integrity of residential properties.
Properties That Qualify
To determine your property’s eligibility for ADU development, contact the San Ramon Planning Department.
- Verify that your property is within San Ramon’s jurisdiction.
- Check the specific residential zones that permit ADUs. Common zones in San Ramon include R-1, R-2, and R-M.
- Other General Plan designations that permit ADUs:
- Residential Mixed-Use (RMU): Integrates residential with commercial uses, offering flexibility.
- Transit-Oriented Development (TOD): Supports ADUs near transit hubs to reduce traffic and enhance accessibility.
- Specific Plan areas: Designated areas with tailored regulations to support mixed-use and residential developments.
Development standards
Single-family
- Attached: Must share a common wall with the primary residence and comply with design standards.
- Detached: Must be a separate structure but within the same property, adhering to setback and size regulations.
Duplex properties
- Attached: Must integrate seamlessly with the existing duplex structure, maintaining architectural harmony.
- Detached: Allowed within the property limits, ensuring compliance with setback requirements.
Multifamily properties
- Attached: Must be within the existing multifamily structure, supporting additional units within the footprint.
- Detached: Allowed within the property, providing flexibility in multi-unit developments.
Junior ADUs (JADUs)
Junior ADUs must be within the primary residence, typically a converted part of the home, such as a bedroom or basement, with independent living facilities.
Property designations
- Flood Zones: ADUs in flood zones must comply with FEMA guidelines, including elevation and floodproofing measures.
- Geohazard Zones: Development in geohazard zones requires additional geotechnical evaluations to ensure safety.
- Historic Designation: ADUs in historic areas must maintain the architectural integrity and comply with preservation standards.
- Easements: ADUs must respect existing easements for utilities and access, ensuring no infringement on these rights.
Summary
San Ramon’s ADU regulations aim to balance growth with community preservation. ‘ADU Specialist Bay Area’ can help navigate these rules, ensuring compliant and successful ADU projects.
FAQ
San Ramon’s regulations promote sustainable growth and housing flexibility, enhancing community development.
Contact the San Ramon Planning Department and verify your property’s zoning and compliance with local ADU guidelines.
One off-street parking space is typically required, with some exceptions based on proximity to public transit.
Yes, two-story ADUs are permitted under specific design and height restrictions.
Minimum setbacks are 4 feet from side and rear property lines, with additional considerations for front setbacks.
Yes, ADUs must have separate connections for water, sewage, and electricity.
Short-term rentals are allowed but must comply with local regulations and registration requirements.
ADUs can be up to 1,200 sq ft, depending on lot size and zoning regulations.
Standard permits are typically processed within 60 days.
ADUs must include smoke detectors, fire alarms, and fire-resistant materials to meet local fire safety codes.
Yes, garage conversions are allowed if they meet local building and zoning regulations.
ADUs must complement the primary residence in design, color, and materials to ensure visual harmony.
Yes, ADUs must comply with all relevant local, state, and federal building codes.
Building, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, grading, site development, and zoning permits are typically required.
San Ramon may offer incentives such as reduced permit fees or expedited processing for ADU projects that align with city goals.
ADUs must have independent utility connections to ensure they function as separate living units.
No, ADUs are not permitted on lots smaller than 7000 sq ft.
ADUs can be up to 16 feet in height, ensuring they fit within neighborhood aesthetics.
Setbacks ensure ADUs are placed safely and respect property boundaries, with minimum setbacks of 4 feet from side and rear property lines.
ADUs must match the architectural style and materials of the primary residence to maintain neighborhood cohesion.
Fire safety requirements include smoke detectors, fire alarms, and fire-resistant materials to protect residents.
Yes, but they must comply with local regulations and registration requirements.
ADUs must comply with zoning, setback, and location requirements, including not encroaching on required open spaces or rear yards.
The minimum lot size for ADU construction is 7000 sq ft, with specific requirements for larger lots.
JADUs must be within the primary residence and typically involve converting existing space like a bedroom or basement, with independent living facilities.
