How big can an ADU be in Stockton?

Detached ADUs in Stockton 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 Stockton?

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

Verified March 14, 2026

ADU Regulations in Stockton, California

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

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

San Joaquin County · CA · Pop. 320,000

Max ADU Size

1,200

sq ft detached

Rear Setback

4 ft

Permit Timeline

60 days

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 permitted by-right per California state law

Source: City of Stockton — Accessory Dwelling Units · Stockton Municipal Code Section 16.80.070

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

side

4 ft

rear

4 ft

Max height: 16 ft

Lot coverage: Per underlying zone

Stockton has many properties with large lots suitable for detached ADUs

Permitting

Permit Process

Department

Stockton Community Development Department

Review Timeline

60 days

Permit Fees

$3,500 – $9,000

Impact Fees

Impact fees waived under 750 sq ft

Required Documents

›Site plan
›Floor plans
›Elevations
›Title 24 energy compliance
›Structural drawings (if new construction)

Stockton has simplified its ADU application process

Visit Stockton Community Development Department →

Infrastructure

Utilities & Requirements

Solar

Required

Parking

Not required

Separate Meter

Optional

Fire Sprinklers

See note

Sewer: Connect to public sewer; Cal Water or City of Stockton

Fire Sprinklers: Not required unless primary structure requires them

Parking: No additional parking required

Financials

ADU Costs in Stockton

Typical Build Cost

$90,000 – $200,000

Cost per Sq Ft

$150 – $220

Monthly Rental

$1,000 – $1,700/mo

Property Value Added

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

Available Grants & Programs

★CalHFA ADU Grant Program available

Central Valley construction costs make ADUs more affordable here than coastal markets

Use the free ADU Cost Calculator →

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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 Stockton Community Development Department

Explore More

Nearby Cities in San Joaquin County

Tracy

Max 1,200 sq ft · $130,000 – $265,000

Lodi

Max 1,200 sq ft · $120,000 – $245,000

Stockton Quick Facts

Max size1,200 sq ft
Rear setback4 ft
Permit timeline60 days
Build cost$90,000 – $200,000
Rental income$1,000 – $1,700/mo
Owner occupancyNot required

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Official Source

City of Stockton — Accessory Dwelling Units

Stockton Municipal Code Section 16.80.070

Last verified: March 14, 2026

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