Describe the proposed work
Label the existing house, the areas being retained and the proposed new dwelling. Use the Town’s ADU/JADU application to organize the submission.
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Santa Clara County / City guide
Los Gatos ADU Services
Los Gatos offers an ADU/JADU application and a gallery of plans. If a gallery design is close to what you want, work out which changes matter before committing to the plan.
Plan for your property ↓
Planning an ADU in Los Gatos
Keep a revision list
The Town flags customization as a factor in using a gallery plan. Ask how moving an opening or changing the roof affects the review.
Test how the buildings meet
For an attached option, draw the shared wall and roof junction. For a detached option, show the space between both homes.
02 / On the property
A window change worth discussing early
On a copy of the candidate floor plan, circle the window that faces the main bedroom. Compare screening it with moving it. Send both options to the plan provider before changing the construction set.
ADU permitting ↗Official resources
Town ADU information and plans gallery Los Gatos ADU/JADU application and guidelinesLos Gatos ADU questions
Where do I get the Los Gatos application?
Use the ADU/JADU application linked from the Town’s ADU information page.
Can I look at plans before contacting a designer?
The Town links to its plans gallery. Keep the plan identifier and your list of questions together.
What if I want a different kitchen or window?
Mark the change on a copy of the plan. Ask the provider and Town how it affects the proposed review path.
How can I compare attached and detached entrances?
Trace both routes from the street and identify any shared gate, narrow turn or window beside the path.
Who should coordinate changes to borrowed plans?
Ask the provider who may revise the drawings and who will supply the site-specific sheets.
What should I bring if I am considering a JADU?
Show the existing floor plan and mark the space you want to convert, the potential entry and the connection to the house.
What do I record at the roof junction?
Photograph the roof edge, gutters and nearby windows so the designer can examine drainage and daylight.
What is a useful first email to Planning?
Include the address, project type and the single change you are unsure about. Attach one labeled sketch.
How can I avoid comparing two different scopes?
Ask for plan licensing, revisions, site work and permit coordination as separate line items.
Which records belong in the project folder?
Keep the Town application, the dated plan version, responses to your questions and each revised drawing together.