City officials simplify accessory dwelling unit process to encourage home additions

The Fresno Planning Commission meeting held on March 19, 2025, focused on the topic of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), a significant issue in the community as residents seek to maximize land use and address housing needs.

During the meeting, a discussion highlighted the growing interest in ADUs, particularly as homeowners look to add these units behind their properties. The process for obtaining approval for an ADU was described as straightforward, with officials noting that the city has streamlined procedures to facilitate this development.

Homeowners can choose to either construct a custom ADU or purchase a pre-designed unit from a company. To initiate the process, residents must submit a site plan indicating the proposed location of the ADU. City officials ensure that the placement meets setback requirements before forwarding the application to the building division for compliance with building codes.

The fee for processing an ADU application was stated to be $370, which is considered minimal in comparison to the potential benefits of adding housing units. The commission emphasized its commitment to encouraging homeowners to consider ADUs as a viable option for increasing housing availability in Fresno.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the city's efforts to simplify the ADU approval process, aiming to support residents in enhancing their properties while contributing to the broader housing strategy in Fresno. Further discussions on this topic are expected as the city continues to address housing challenges.