My Visalia
Close Panel
  • Email
  • Print

Accessory Dwelling Units

An Accessory Dwelling Unit or "ADU" is a smaller housing unit located on the same property with an existing single- or multi-family residence that provides complete independent living facilities, including a kitchen with cooking facilities, bathroom, and sleeping area. They can range in size from a tiny house up to a 1,200 square foot house or greater depending on the size of the existing residence on the lot. They are also known as second dwelling units, guest cottages, in-law quarters, casitas, and granny flats.

ADUs can vary in their structural forms.  They can consist of the following:

  • Attached ADU: An addition to the existing residence on the lot.
  • Detached ADU: A separated building from the existing residence on the lot.
  • Conversion of space: A conversion of space within the existing residence, with or without internal access between the two units.
  • Garage conversion: A conversion of the existing residence's existing garage.

A Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit or "JADU" is a sub-category defined as an ADU of no more than 500 square feet and contained entirely within an existing primary dwelling unit or attached garage.

NEWS: Starting in Fall 2022, the City of Visalia is launching an update to its Zoning Ordinance regulations on ADUs, to conform to recent State legislation that allows for JADUs and statewide exemption ADUs, and to help streamline the development of ADUs.  Please check back for information regarding opportunities to provide public comment before a final ordinance is adopted in 2023.

For any questions regarding ADUs, please visit or call the City of Visalia Planning Division.

Permit-Ready Accessory Dwelling Units

Through the Permit-Ready ADU Program, property owners can select from a variety of ADU plans which have been pre-approved and quickly obtain a building, providing a significant savings in architect and plan review fees.  Please click here to visit the Permit-Ready ADU website or contact the Planning Division today!

back to top