ADU Permit Fees & Costs 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
Limited Data Available
Some information on this page has not been fully verified. We're working to improve data quality. Always verify with Modesto directly.
Estimated Total Fees
$2,700 – $7,920
Range based on typical residential solar PV system. Actual fees depend on project valuation and system size.
| Fee Component | Range | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| ADU Permit Fee[1][2] Building permit fees calculated per Modesto Master Fee Schedule based on estimated construction valuation and square footage. Includes plan review and standard inspections. No impact fees for ADU utility connections. | $1,800 – $4,800 | ✓ |
| Plan Review Fee[3][4] Plan review fee is typically 50-65% of the permit fee. | $900 – $3,120 | ✓ |
| Estimated Total | $2,700 – $7,920 |
Fees shown as ranges. Always verify the exact amount with Modesto before submission. Additional fees may apply for expedited review or resubmittals.
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
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
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Answer a few project questions and get a adu permit packet for Modesto, California — with every document, form, and fee organized for submission.
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