Home / ADUs In Fresno

ADUs In Fresno

Last updated November 3, 2026

Fresno offers five pre-approved ADU plans from a 340 square foot studio to a 1,015 square foot three-bedroom, and says pre-approved and custom plans no longer need a Zone Clearance. Fresno County runs a separate program for the unincorporated area.

The Local Program

The City of Fresno's ADU Program offers five pre-approved plans: a 340 square foot studio, a 499 square foot one-bedroom, a 625 square foot plan, the same 625 square foot design over a garage, and a 1,015 square foot three-bedroom. The city says pre-approved and custom ADU plans no longer need a Zone Clearance, and that fire sprinklers may be required in some cases. Its permit application packet says a sprinkler system is required for the pre-approved ADU when the main house already has one, and lists a school fee form from your school district as a required submittal. The city lists an ADU hotline at (559) 621-8077. Fresno County runs its own program for the unincorporated area, so confirm which one governs your address.

What Costs Look Like In The Region

The Terner Center's Terner Center statewide ADU owner survey did not list a median for the Central Valley in the figures we reviewed, so we are not quoting one. The City of Fresno page links a cost estimator for its pre-approved plans. Ask builders for written estimates. That survey was published in 2021, so current prices may be higher. See ADU Cost In California for the full table and the caveats.

What To Check At Your Address

• Fresno County is a separate jurisdiction from the city. Find out which one governs your address.
• Ask whether your lot suits one of the five pre-approved plans, and whether the main house has fire sprinklers, since that decides whether the ADU needs them.
• Ask which school district covers your address, because the city packet requires a school fee form.

State Rules That Apply Here

• The review deadlines in Permits And Timeline: 15 business days for a completeness notice and 60 days to approve or deny a complete application.
• No impact fees for an ADU of 750 square feet or less (Government Code section 66311.5).
• No owner occupancy requirement for an ADU (Government Code section 66315).

Before You Hire Anyone

Call or visit the planning counter, and bring your address and a sketch of what you have in mind. Then read Questions To Ask An ADU Builder.