ADU Permit Submission Checklist in Modesto, California
Everything you need to apply for a adu permit in Modesto, California — documents, fees, steps, and a downloadable submission packet.
Key Facts
- Permit required
- Yes
- Submission method
- Online
- Typical fee range
- $2,700 – $7,920
- Review time
- Varies by jurisdiction
- Inspections
- 7 inspections required
ADU Permit Checklist
Modesto — 5 required, 0 optional
Forms & Applications(1)
Plans & Diagrams(3)
Supporting Documents(1)
This checklist is for reference only. Requirements may change — always verify with Modesto before submission.
Generate your permit packet
Get a personalized ADU permit packet for Modesto, California — tailored to your project details.
- Required forms: Building Permit Application, and more
- Pre-filled templates: Permit Cover Sheet
- Fee breakdown: $900–$4,800 estimated total
- Step-by-step Modesto Community and Economic Development Department portal submission guide
- Inspection prep checklist (7 items)
- Personalized for your specific project details
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Required Documents
Modesto requires the following documents for this permit application.
Building Permit Application
Completed City of Modesto building permit application with project scope, property information, and owner/applicant certification
Architectural Drawings
Complete architectural drawings signed and sealed by a licensed California architect or professional engineer with floor plans, elevations, sections, and details
Site Plan
Site plan showing property boundaries, lot dimensions, setbacks, existing and proposed structures, parking areas, and utility connections
Proof of Ownership
Current deed or title report documenting property ownership, required per California Government Code 65852.2 for ADU eligibility verification
Utility and Mechanical Plans
Plans showing water, sewer, electrical, and gas connections with separate metering specifications for independent ADU utility service
Permit Process
Follow these steps to submit your permit application through Modesto Community and Economic Development Department.
- 1
Verify ADU Eligibility
Confirm property meets ADU eligibility requirements under California Government Code 65852.2 and Modesto Municipal Code Chapter 6. Verify property ownership and zoning.
You'll need: Proof of Ownership
- 2
Submit Building Permit Application
Submit complete building permit application with all architectural, site, and utility plans to Modesto Community and Economic Development Department
You'll need: Building Permit Application, Architectural Drawings, Site Plan, Utility and Mechanical Plans
- 3
Plan Review
Modesto Community and Economic Development conducts plan review for California Building Code and municipal code compliance
- 4
Address Plan Review Comments
Revise and resubmit plans if necessary to address any plan review comments or required modifications
- 5
Fee Payment and Permit Issuance
Pay all required permit and inspection fees and receive authorization to begin construction
- 6
Construction Inspections
Schedule and pass all required inspections throughout construction and upon final completion
Fees and Timeline
Fee Breakdown
| Fee | Range | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| ADU Permit Fee | $1,800 – $4,800 | Verified |
| Plan Review Fee | $900 – $3,120 | Verified |
Inspections Required
Foundation and footing inspection per California Building Co
Foundation and footing inspection per California Building Code
Framing and structural member inspection
Framing and structural member inspection
Electrical rough-in and service panel inspection
Electrical rough-in and service panel inspection
Plumbing rough-in and fixture installation inspection
Plumbing rough-in and fixture installation inspection
Mechanical system and HVAC installation inspection
Mechanical system and HVAC installation inspection
Interior and exterior wall construction inspection
Interior and exterior wall construction inspection
Final inspection and approval
Final inspection and approval
Authority Sources
Data on this page is sourced from official records published by the permitting authority. Always verify requirements directly before submitting.
Modesto Community and Economic Development Department
Last verified: February 15, 2026
2 sources referenced
Verified February 15, 2026
Verified February 15, 2026
Verified February 15, 2026
Verified February 15, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a adu permit in Modesto?
- Yes. Modesto requires a adu permit for this type of project. Submitting without a permit may result in fines, required removal, or complications when selling your property.
- How long does adu permit approval take in Modesto?
- Processing times in Modesto vary depending on project complexity and current review volume. The process involves 6 steps. Contact Modesto Development Services for current timelines.
- What documents are required for a adu permit in Modesto?
- Modesto requires 5 documents including Building Permit Application, Architectural Drawings, Site Plan, Proof of Ownership, and others. See the full list above for details.
- What happens if I build without a adu permit in Modesto?
- Building without a permit in Modesto can result in stop-work orders, fines, required removal of work, difficulty selling your property, and insurance complications. It is strongly recommended to obtain proper permits before starting work.
- Can PermitMagic help prepare my adu permit submission in Modesto?
- Yes. PermitMagic generates a submission-ready packet tailored to Modesto's requirements, including a document checklist, workflow steps, and authority references. Start a permit plan to get your personalized packet.
- How much does a adu permit cost in Modesto?
- ADU permit fees in Modesto typically range from $2,700 to $7,920, depending on project scope. Fees may include building permit, plan review, and technology surcharges. Verify current fees with Modesto.
Related Permits
Other permits in Modesto
ADU permits in nearby cities
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