Permit-Ready Accessory Dwelling Units

Are you looking for a faster, simpler, and cost-saving way to build an accessory dwelling unit?

The City of Visalia’s Permit-Ready (i.e., Pre-Approved) Accessory Dwelling Unit Program offers residents an opportunity to easily choose one of three building plans at no cost to the resident and obtain a building permit through a streamlined approval process. The resident would be responsible for securing a contractor, providing required materials (including solar and truss calculations), and paying construction and permit costs.

The City through a partnership with a local architecture firm has developed three pre-approved plans:

• Studio (20'-0" x 26'-8", 490 square feet)
• 1-bedroom (26'-0" x 24'-2", 498 square feet)
• 2-bedroom (32'-0" x 32'-8", 918 square feet)

Each unit can be constructed in one of three styles: Mediterranean, Craftsman, and Contemporary.

Building an ADU offers residents an opportunity to provide a source of rental income on their property or expand accommodations for friends and family.

Requirements:

• Property must be in the Visalia city limits
• Property must be residentially-zoned and must have an existing or proposed single-family home or duplex.
• If the primary residence contains fire sprinklers, then the ADU must also contain fire sprinklers.

Process:

1. Review the ADU floor plans and requirements.
2. Meet with Planning and Building Division staff.
3. Submit Hold Harmless Agreement to receive full plan set from City.
4. Prepare a site plan.
5. Collect all required materials.
6. Submit application & required materials to City for review.
7. Receive your building permit and begin construction.