ADU Basics

ADU

The ABC's of ADU's. (2019) .AARP. https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/housing/info-2019/accessory-dwelling-units-adus.html 

The City of Woodland Accessory Dwelling Unit Ordinance follows State regulations.

Do I need to hire a contractor?

  • The City of Woodland strongly encourages the use of a licensed architect and contractor when designing and building an ADU on your property.  
  • For information on how to find a reputable contractor visit: Contractor Information

What are the basic requirements of an ADU?

ADUs are defined as complete independent dwelling units that have permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation located on the same property as a single-family home or multifamily development. ADUs may either be attached or detached from the primary home and/or include a conversion of existing legal space on the property. 

  1.  ADUs require a separate exterior entrance. 
  2.  ADUs require a kitchen.
    1. Kitchen Sink
    2. Food Preparation Counters
    3. Food Storage Cabinets
    4. Refrigerator
    5. Stove Top or Range Oven
  3. ADUs require a sanitation facility (bathroom).
    1. Bathroom Sink
    2. Toilet
    3. Shower or Shower/Tub 

Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADU) may have different requirements. Please refer to the JADU Page.

Planning to build an ADU on a multifamily lot?

  • Up to two detached ADUs are allowed on a lot with a proposed multifamily development or up to eight detached ADUs on a lot that has an existing multifamily dwelling unit, if the unit meets height and setback requirements. The number of detached ADUs cannot exceed the number of primary dwelling units. 
  • One or more ADUs may also be converted from portions of existing multifamily structures that are not used as livable space. The number of ADUs cannot exceed 25% of the existing units.