Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) — also known as in-law units, granny flats, or backyard cottages — are becoming one of the most popular ways to add affordable housing in Chico and across California. Whether you're looking to house a family member or generate rental income, building an ADU in Chico starts with careful planning, the right surveys, and professionally prepared civil engineering plans.
This article walks you through what you need to know about permitting an ADU in Chico, CA, and how to get started the right way.
An ADU is a secondary housing unit built on the same lot as a primary residence. It can be:
In 2020, California passed several laws (including AB 68, SB 13, and AB 881) that made it much easier for homeowners to build ADUs. In response, the City of Chico adopted its own ADU ordinance, aligning with the state’s goal of increasing housing supply.
Yes. The City of Chico Planning Division requires a permit for all new ADUs — whether attached, detached, or converted from existing space. The permitting process typically includes:
Before you design or submit anything, you should confirm your lot’s dimensions and conditions. This is where a land surveyor comes in.
A boundary survey verifies the exact location of your property lines and existing corner monuments. This is especially important for:
A topo survey shows the elevations and contours of your land, as well as driveways, trees, drainage paths, and existing structures. It’s often required for:
In addition to surveys, the City of Chico may require engineering documents for your ADU, such as:
We provide local homeowners and developers with everything they need to permit and build an ADU in Chico and surrounding areas:
Ready to build your ADU? Let’s get the survey work and site planning started the right way.