City of Paso Robles Offers Pre-Approved Plans for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

The City’s Pre-Approved ADU Plans Program provides a selection of professionally designed plans that meet state and local building codes

Paso Robles, CA – The City of Paso Robles is pleased to announce a new initiative to streamline the construction of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) by offering pre-approved plans to property owners in the city. The plans are designed to reduce the time, cost, and complexity of adding ADUs to residential properties, supporting the city’s goals of increasing housing options and fostering sustainable growth.

The City’s Pre-Approved ADU Plans Program provides a selection of professionally designed plans that meet state and local building codes. By using these pre-approved plans, homeowners can:

Save Time: Shorten the plan-check process with stock plans already reviewed and approved by city staff.
Reduce Costs: Save on architectural design and engineering fees.
Simplify Construction: Choose from a variety of thoughtfully designed plans that meet diverse needs, including floor plans for a studio up to a four-bedroom residence.

Why Accessory Dwelling Units?

ADUs are small, independent residential units located on the same lot as a primary dwelling. They are an efficient way to increase housing supply and offer flexibility for homeowners, whether to house family members, provide rental income, or create additional living space. Statewide, ADUs are an important tool for addressing the housing shortage, which has driven up home prices and rents in California. To tackle this challenge, the city has removed barriers to ADU construction, including reducing fees, easing parking requirements, and streamlining approval processes. ADUs can be used as long-term rentals, but cannot be used as short-term rentals.

How to Get Started

Visit the City of Paso Robles website at prcity.com/ADU to view available plans.
Select a plan that meets your needs.
Consult the Preapproved ADU Checklist for supporting plans and information that must be prepared and submitted to the City.
Submit your application and supporting documents to www.PasoPermits.com for a streamlined permitting process.

“Offering pre-approved ADU plans is part of our commitment to increasing housing options and simplifying processes for our residents,” said Devon Kuhnle, Deputy Building Official. “This program provides a practical and affordable solution for homeowners looking to create additional living spaces or generate rental income.”

For more information about the program, visit the City’s website at prcity.com/ADU or contact the Building Division at 805-237-3850 or building@prcity.com.