Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

ADU’s can provide great benefits to many different people and living situations and the Nevada County Planning Department would like to get the information out on the benefits of ADU’s and the process to construct this type of housing option.

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) Frequently asked Questions  (PDF)

Accessory Dwelling Unit Fast Facts (PDF)

  1. What is an ADU?
  2. Are ADU’s affordable?
  3. What are the benefits of an ADU?
  4. How do I get started?
  5. Zoning and other Standards
  6. Handouts and Webpages

Accessory Dwelling Units, also called second units or "granny units", can be an extremely beneficial and affordable option to provide additional housing units on a residential property. An ADU is an accessory dwelling unit with complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and can include the following:

  • Detached: The unit is a separated structure from the primary residence.
  • Attached: The unit is attached and/or contained within the primary residence.
  • Converted Existing Space: Space (e.g., master bedroom, attached garage, storage area) on the property of the primary residence that is converted into an independent living unit.
  • Junior Accessory Dwelling Unit (JADU): A specific type of conversion of existing space that is contained entirely within an existing single-family residence.