How big can an ADU be in Fresno?

Detached ADUs in Fresno can be up to 1,200 sq ft. Attached ADUs: 50% of primary home, max 1,200 sq ft. JADUs up to 500 sq ft.

How much does it cost to build an ADU in Fresno?

Build costs typically range $90,000 – $200,000, or $150 – $220 per square foot.

Verified March 14, 2026

ADU Regulations in Fresno, California

Q: What are the setback requirements for ADUs in Fresno?

Front: Same as primary dwelling setback. Side: 4 ft. Rear: 4 ft.

Fresno County · CA · Pop. 540,000

Max ADU Size

1,200

sq ft detached

Rear Setback

4 ft

Permit Timeline

60 days for ministerial approval

Build Cost

$90,000 – $200,000

Zoning

Allowed ADU Types

✓Detached ADU

✓Attached ADU

✓JADU (Junior ADU)

✓Garage Conversion

Max per lot: 2 ADUs✓ No owner-occupancy required

ADUs allowed on any parcel with an existing or proposed single-family or multifamily dwelling

Source: City of Fresno — Accessory Dwelling Units · Fresno Municipal Code Section 15-1306

Dimensions

Size & Setback Requirements

Detached

1,200

sq ft max

JADU

500

sq ft max

Attached

50% of primary home, max 1,200 sq ft

Setbacks

front

Same as primary dwelling setback

side

4 ft

rear

4 ft

Max height: 16 ft

Lot coverage: Per underlying zone

Existing nonconforming structures may be converted regardless of setbacks

Permitting

Permit Process

Department

Fresno Development and Resource Management

Review Timeline

60 days for ministerial approval

Permit Fees

$4,000 – $10,000

Impact Fees

Impact fees waived for ADUs under 750 sq ft

Required Documents

›Site plan drawn to scale
›Floor plans (existing and proposed)
›Elevation drawings
›Title 24 energy compliance report
›Structural calculations (new construction)

Fresno offers a pre-approved ADU plan program to expedite permits

Visit Fresno Development and Resource Management →

Infrastructure

Utilities & Requirements

Solar

Required

Parking

Not required

Separate Meter

Optional

Fire Sprinklers

See note

Sewer: Connect to existing sewer lateral where possible

Fire Sprinklers: Not required unless primary dwelling requires them

Parking: No additional parking required for ADUs near transit or when garage is converted

Electrical panel upgrade may be required for older homes

Financials

ADU Costs in Fresno

Typical Build Cost

$90,000 – $200,000

Cost per Sq Ft

$150 – $220

Monthly Rental

$900 – $1,600/mo

Property Value Added

Adds $80,000 – $160,000 to property value

Available Grants & Programs

★CalHFA ADU Grant Program (up to $40,000 for qualifying owners)

Central Valley labor and material costs are among the lowest in the state

Use the free ADU Cost Calculator →

Free Service

Get Contractor Quotes in Fresno

Connect with licensed local ADU contractors. Takes 2 minutes, no obligation.

Get Free Quotes

Disclaimer: Information is compiled from publicly available municipal codes for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal, zoning, or construction advice. Regulations change frequently. Always verify with your local planning department. Last verified: March 14, 2026. Verify with Fresno Development and Resource Management

Explore More

Nearby Cities in Fresno County

Clovis

Max 1,200 sq ft · $120,000 – $250,000

Fresno Quick Facts

Max size1,200 sq ft
Rear setback4 ft
Permit timeline60 days for ministerial approval
Build cost$90,000 – $200,000
Rental income$900 – $1,600/mo
Owner occupancyNot required

Get Free Quotes

Licensed Fresno ADU contractors, no obligation.

Get My Free Quotes

Official Source

City of Fresno — Accessory Dwelling Units

Fresno Municipal Code Section 15-1306

Last verified: March 14, 2026

Free Tools

→ ADU Cost Calculator → ROI Calculator

Stay Updated

ADU rules change often.

Get notified when Fresno's regulations update, plus guides on permitting and financing.