Pre-Approved Plans

Find your dream ADU design

Save time and money by choosing an existing set of plans and connecting directly with the architect, designer, or company. Plus, some locations have already reviewed plans for building code compliance, saving you even more time in the permitting process!

PLEASE NOTE: All existing ADU designs – even pre-approved plans – require planning for your property and other permit applications. You most likely need to hire a professional to complete this work. Not all designs work on all properties, so ask a professional before purchasing or using a design. 

Rendering of a detached ADU.

ADU Plans Galleries

Some Marin locations have an online ADU Plans Gallery, offering a selection of site-built and/or prefabricated ADU designs. Galleries may include designs that have been pre-approved by local, state, or federal agencies, and using one of these plans may make you eligible for faster review. 

Visit the Plans Gallery search page to see if your community has launched a gallery, or browse the statewide gallery to see the program’s entire selection of plans. NOTE: As of Fall 2024, this program is new and galleries are just beginning to launch. If your community doesn’t have one yet, check back soon!

Ask local staff

As of January 1, 2025, all local governments in California are required to accept ADU plans for pre-approval and keep a list of locally pre-approved plans online so homeowners can get in touch with the designers to purchase or use the plans. 

Use our Contact page to find contact information for your local staff and ask about locally pre-approved plans.