What Documents Are Required for a JADU Permit?

Preparing a Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU) application can be fast and efficient — but a critical first step is: What documents must be submitted to get a JADU permit approved?

Using a preapproved ADU plan, a complete ADU blue print, and permit ready ADU plans ensures a strong, clean application that moves through city reviews faster.

Essential Documents for JADU Permit Approval

1. Site Plan

A site plan shows:

• Property lines

• Existing structures

• Proposed JADU location

• Setbacks to property boundaries

It must be scaled, accurate, and clear for zoning review.

2. Floor Plan

A floor plan — often the heart of your ADU blue print — must show:

• Room dimensions

• Kitchen layout

• Bathroom arrangement (shared or independent)

• Window and door locations

Efficiency kitchens must meet minimum appliance and cabinet standards for JADUs.

3. Building Elevations (If Exterior Changes Are Proposed)

If exterior modifications are part of the project, elevations must show:

• Roof lines

• New doors or windows

• Heights relative to grade

If no exterior changes are made, elevations may not be necessary.

4. Title 24 Energy Compliance Reports

All JADUs must meet California’s energy efficiency standards.Required documents include:

• CF-1R energy modeling report

• Matching mechanical and building system specifications

A properly aligned permit ready ADU plan helps streamline this step.

5. Deed Restriction for Owner Occupancy

California law requires JADU owners to record a deed restriction stating:

• The owner will reside in either the main house or the JADU

• The JADU cannot be sold separately from the main home

Recording this document early prevents final permit issuance delays.

6. Owner Occupancy Affidavit

Along with the deed restriction, many cities require owners to sign an affidavit confirming compliance with JADU residency requirements.

7. Utility Plan (If Necessary)

If utility upgrades are needed (rare for JADUs), include:

• Plumbing layouts

• Electrical load calculations

• Sewer connection plans

However, most JADUs share existing utilities with the main home.

Optional Documents (May Be Required)

Depending on location:

• Historic preservation clearances

• Flood zone verification

• Fire district clearances (for rural areas)

Check with your local planning office early.

How Preapproved Plans Help Document Preparation

Using a preapproved ADU plan:

• Aligns early with city requirements

• Reduces back-and-forth on minor corrections

• Bundles floor plans, site layouts, and energy compliance into a clean package

This reduces headaches and saves weeks of plan review.

Real-World Example

A homeowner in Mountain View submitted a full permit package using a permit ready ADU plan and a clean ADU blue print.Result:

• No correction letters received

• JADU permit issued in just five weeks

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Missing energy compliance documents

• Forgetting to submit the deed restriction

• Submitting hand-drawn or unclear floor plans

• Leaving out window egress sizes for sleeping areas

Final Thoughts

Providing a complete and professional JADU permit application package is the fastest way to move through plan review and start construction. At ADUnest, we specialize in helping homeowners prepare full ADU blueprints, access preapproved ADU plans, and submit permit ready ADU plans designed to meet all city requirements from the start.If you have any questions about the documents needed for your JADU permit, leave a comment below — the ADUnest team is ready to assist you every step of the way!