Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) &
Junior ADU (JADU) Overview

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are detached or attached accessory structures on a residential lot that provide independent living areas. A junior accessory dwelling unit (JADU) is a residential dwelling with a total floor area of not less than one hundred fifty square feet and not more than five hundred square feet and is permitted within an existing or proposed single-family residential dwelling unit.

 

ADU Handbook
Click here for the National City ADU Handbook.

 

Regulations

National City Ordinances for ADUs (18.30.380) and JADUs  (18.30.390) can be found on the Municipal Code webpage. 

The State of California maintains additional regulations and resources on the State Accessory Dwelling Unit webpage.

 

ADU Permit Applications:

  1. Permit applications can be found on the Applications and Informational Handouts webpage.
  2. Complete application packet, including a completed Credit Card Authorization Form (PDF)
  3. Application packets may be emailed to building@nationalcityca.gov.
  4. Application packet may also be dropped off in person at the Building Division Counter at City Hall between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday.

 

Questions:

For general questions on ADUs please contact the Planning Division staff at (619) 336-4310.

For additional information or assistance with the permit application information and fees contact the Building Division staff at (619) 336-4210.

 

Coming Soon!

  • ADU Loan Program 

To learn how ADUs and JADUs help advance the City's goals and policies visit the Housing Element webpage.