Table of Contents

• ADUs/JADUs AND THEIR BENEFITS
• QUICK OVERVIEW: TOWN ADU REQUIREMENTS
• QUICK OVERVIEW: HOW TO BUILD AN ADU/JADU IN TOWN
• FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 
• CONTACT INFORMATION AND ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
• TAKE THE SURVEY ( BY JANUARY 18, 2023 )

QUICK OVERVIEW: BUILDING AN ADU/JADU IN TOWN

STEP 1 - GATHER PROPERTY INFORMATION

Knowing basic property information and/or existing conditions is the starting point for any project. This includes consulting hazard maps, understanding maximum floor area limitations, determining septic/sewer and power supply status, etc. 

STEP 2 - DESIGN YOUR UNIT

Designing an ADU  happens with a professional such as an architect.

STEP 3 - SCHEDULE A PRE-APPLICATION MEETING WITH TOWN STAFF

(AND CONSULT YOUR HOA, IF APPLICABLE)

In this pre-application meeting with staff, your design professional will discuss your project in more detail, have specific project questions answered, and get initial feedback based on staff’s cursory review. 

STEP 4 - SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION

Typically, your project is routed to the following departments/agencies for review and comments:

Building; Planning; Town Engineer; Town Geologist; Woodside Fire Protection District; San Mateo County Dept. of Environmental Health (if property is on septic system). Your project team will receive comments no later than 30 days from your submittal date once your application is complete.

STEP 5 - RECEIVE YOUR PERMIT & BEGIN CONSTRUCTION

As with all building projects, you’ll need to schedule inspections at various stages.

Town staff can assist you

To get help, schedule a meeting (virtual counter appointment):

http://www.portolavalley.net/virtualappointment

Other Helpful Information Links:

PV Design Guidelines:  https://www.portolavalley.net/home/showdocument?id=147