On single-family residential lots in Saratoga, you can build one ADU (attached or detached) and one Junior ADU (JADU). There is no minimum lot size requirement for ADU eligibility, though Saratoga lots tend to be larger than in neighboring cities.

Multifamily properties in Saratoga can build up to two detached ADUs with 4-foot setbacks. You can also convert non-livable spaces (such as storage areas, garages, or basements) into ADUs—up to 25% of the existing unit count.

Yes, Saratoga allows Junior ADUs up to 500 square feet. A JADU must be located entirely within the existing footprint of the primary residence or attached garage. JADUs require a separate entrance and an efficient kitchen, and may share a bathroom with the main home. Owner-occupancy is required—you must live in either the primary dwelling or the JADU.

Saratoga does not have a separate guest quarters classification. Any secondary living space with kitchen facilities would be classified as an ADU and count toward your allowable units.

Detached ADUs in Saratoga can be up to 1,200 square feet. ADUs up to 800 square feet with 4-foot setbacks and 16-foot height limits qualify for streamlined ministerial approval and cannot be denied due to lot coverage, FAR, or open space requirements.

Attached ADUs are limited to 1,200 square feet or 50% of the primary dwelling's floor area, depending on configuration. State law guarantees attached ADUs of at least 850 square feet for one-bedroom units or 1,000 square feet for two or more bedrooms.

Yes. Under California state law, ADUs up to 800 square feet with 4-foot setbacks and 16-foot height cannot be denied due to lot coverage, FAR, or open space requirements. Saratoga's larger lots typically have room for ADUs without needing these exemptions.

Detached ADUs are typically limited to 16-18 feet in height depending on zoning. Attached ADUs can match the primary dwelling's height up to 25 feet. Conversion ADUs have no height limit since they use existing structures. Hillside properties may have additional height restrictions.

Limited two-story configurations may be possible within the 18-foot height limit in some zones. Most detached ADUs in Saratoga are single-story. Consult with the city planning department for specific guidance on your property.

Detached ADUs require minimum 4-foot setbacks from side and rear property lines, plus at least 6 feet from existing structures. Front setbacks follow the underlying zoning district requirements. Conversions of legally established structures are exempt from setback requirements.

Saratoga requires detached ADUs to be at least 6 feet from the primary residence and any other existing structures on the lot for fire safety and maintenance access.

Saratoga processes ADU permits within 60 days as required by state law. Overall, expect 2-4 months from complete application to permit issuance. Hillside properties or those with environmental considerations may require additional review time.

Permit costs in Saratoga typically range from $8,000 to $20,000 depending on project scope and valuation. No impact fees are charged for ADUs under 750 square feet. Saratoga's Community Development Department can provide current fee information.

Saratoga may require soils reports or geotechnical studies for hillside properties or those in special geologic hazard zones. A site survey may be required to verify property lines. Properties with mature trees may require arborist review.

Parking requirements are waived for ADUs within half a mile of public transit. Saratoga has limited transit coverage compared to other Silicon Valley cities, so some properties may require parking. Where required, parking cannot exceed one space per ADU. Conversion ADUs and JADUs never require parking.

No. When converting a garage or carport to an ADU, replacement parking is not required under California state law. This makes garage conversions an attractive option even when transit exemptions don't apply.

If parking is required, it can be located in setback areas, existing driveways (tandem parking), or elsewhere on the property per city standards. Saratoga's larger lots typically provide ample parking options.