Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUS)

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Accessory dwelling units (ADUs), also called secondary units or granny flats, are small living units with a kitchen and bathroom. They can be on residentially zoned properties, including single-family or multifamily properties. The ADU Checklist will help you identify if your property qualifies for an ADU.

Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs) are less than 500 square feet and located within the footprint of a single-family home. They may be converted from the existing square footage of a single-family home and this can include an attached garage.  

There are many benefits to ADUs and JADUs, including that they:

• Create more affordable housing for our community and families;
• Provide an income opportunity for homeowners;
• Encourage the use of public transportation.

ADU legislation

If you're interested in the state legislation on ADUs — what’s allowed and where — see the California Department of Housing and Community Development’s Accessory Dwelling Units and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units webpage. The Town of Atherton enacts all state legislation pertaining to ADUs in its zoning code and our ADU Process reflects state law.

How many ADUs have been permitted in Atherton? We are developing an ADU Permit Activity Dashboards.  Once it is available it will be posted here.