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THE SANTA CLARA VALLEY

Santa Clara County ADU Services

From a city backyard to an unincorporated parcel, the first drawing begins with the address and the way you want to live.

Explore the details ↓
Illustrative NUVO architectural design study
NUVO design study · Concept imagery

At a glance

01

Locate your parcel

Use the LAFCO map to see which city or county office to contact. The county building department has its own program for unincorporated properties.

02

Walk the route to the front door

Sketch the path from the street to the future entrance. Note trees, changes in level, utility equipment and the garden space you want to keep.

03

Bring the right questions

With the jurisdiction identified, ask about a conversion, attached home or detached cottage. The answer will help you decide which design studies to explore.

Find your planning office

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City guides

Official resources

City and county boundary maps ↗ Local rules and planning contacts ↗ County pre-approved ADU plan program ↗