Free ADU Site Plan Wizard for Permit Planning
Check common ADU site plan requirements, setback details, utility notes, and possible permit risks before ordering a permit-ready accessory dwelling unit plan.
Plan Your ADU Permit Before You Submit
Planning an accessory dwelling unit can become confusing because every city has different site plan, zoning, setback, parking, utility, and permit submission rules. This free ADU Site Plan Wizard helps homeowners, contractors, and property owners understand the basic information usually needed before submitting an ADU permit application.
The tool gives you a quick ADU site plan checklist based on your project type, state, city, lot condition, and utility status. It does not replace your local building department, but it helps you prepare better before ordering a permit-ready site plan.
ADU Site Plan Wizard
Fill out the form below to generate a simple ADU permit planning checklist.
Your ADU Site Plan Report
Fill out the form and generate a basic ADU site plan requirement checklist.
What Is an ADU Site Plan?
An ADU site plan is a scaled drawing that shows where an accessory dwelling unit will be placed on a property. It usually includes the existing home, proposed ADU footprint, property lines, setbacks, driveway, parking area, walkways, utility connections, easements, drainage notes, and other details required by the local permitting office.
Most cities require an ADU site plan before they review an application because they need to confirm that the proposed unit fits within zoning, safety, access, and lot coverage rules.
What This ADU Wizard Checks
This free wizard helps identify common ADU site plan requirements, including property boundaries, proposed ADU placement, setback measurements, utility connection notes, lot condition concerns, and possible rejection risks.
For example, a detached ADU may need clear side and rear setback dimensions, separation from the main house, fire access notes, and utility routing. A garage conversion ADU may need existing structure notes, access details, and parking-related information depending on the city.
Common ADU Site Plan Requirements
- Property lines and lot dimensions
- Existing home and proposed ADU footprint
- Front, side, and rear setback labels
- Driveway, parking, and access routes
- Water, sewer, gas, and electrical utility notes
- Easements, fences, trees, and drainage features
- North arrow, scale, title block, and address
- Lot coverage or impervious surface calculations where required
Why ADU Permits Get Rejected
ADU permit applications are often delayed because the site plan is missing key information. Common issues include missing setback labels, unclear property boundaries, missing utility details, incorrect lot coverage calculations, easements not shown, or plans that are not drawn to scale.
Using this checklist before submitting your application can help reduce avoidable corrections and make the review process smoother.
ADU Site Plan FAQ
Do I need a site plan for an ADU permit?
Yes, most cities and counties require a site plan for an ADU permit. The plan usually shows the existing home, proposed ADU location, property lines, setbacks, utilities, access, and other site details.
Can this ADU Wizard replace my local building department?
No. This tool gives general planning guidance only. Final requirements depend on your local AHJ, zoning department, and building permit office.
What should an ADU site plan include?
An ADU site plan should usually include property lines, lot dimensions, existing structures, proposed ADU footprint, setbacks, driveway, walkways, parking, utilities, easements, north arrow, scale, and title block.
Can I order a permit-ready ADU site plan after using the tool?
Yes. After reviewing your checklist, you can request a custom ADU site plan prepared for your permit submission.
What if my city requires a stamped survey?
If your city requires a stamped survey, you may need a licensed surveyor. A non-certified site plan may not be accepted in those cases.
Need a Permit-Ready ADU Site Plan?
If your local building department requires a site plan for your ADU, our team can prepare a clear permit-ready site plan using your property details, project scope, and local submission needs.
Get a Custom ADU Site Plan