Riverside ADU Permit Process
To utilize the pre-approved ADU Plans, your property must meet the following requirements:
- Project site is zoned single-family residential (R-1, RE, RR, RC, RA-5) and is developed or is proposed to be developed with a single-family dwelling unit
- Project site is not located in a Flood Hazard Area. Verify this by looking up the property address on the FEMA website.
- Project site is not designated, or eligible for designation, as a Cultural Resource pursuant to Title 20 of the Riverside Municipal Code. Verify this by using the Historic Resources Viewer.
If the project meets the above requirements, it may be eligible for the pre-approved ADU plans. For assistance with determining eligibility, contact the Planning Division at 951-826-5800.
Select one of the four available plan types and elevations:
The elevations include the Craftsman, Ranch, and Spanish exterior styles.
Go to the MapRiverside to locate your property and plot the image to PDF. Using a PDF editor or image editing software, indicate the preferred location of the ADU.
Please note that this is NOT the final site plan. The preliminary site plan is intended to provide City staff with the necessary information to determine the requirements for your project's approval.
Visit the Riverside Public Permit Portal to apply for a building permit. You will be asked to create an account with a username and password. Be sure to review the instructional videos on the Portal homepage for more information on how to submit through the Portal.
Upload the selected ADU plans, including the completed T1.1 from Step 4, the Hold Harmless Agreement & Planning ADU Express Clearance Form from Step 5, and the preliminary site plan from Step 3.
Your application will be reviewed by each department to determine any additional requirements and conditions for permit approval. Once the review is complete, you will receive an email notification. Please log in to the permit portal to download the conditions report. The report will include instructions for visiting the One Stop Shop to discuss these requirements with the relevant departments.
The applicant is responsible for fulfilling all conditions outlined in the conditions report from step 6. Please note that this may require additional steps and meetings with a department representative.
Once all conditions are satisfied, and all fees have been paid in full, the building permit will be issued. The applicant will then be able to download the approved plans and begin construction.
Building plan review turnaround times are reduced for the pre-approved ADU plans as follows:
3 business day turnaround for the initial plan review outlined in Step 6.
Subsequent plan reviews, when necessary, will be 10 business days.
For More Information:
Please Contact the City of Riverside’s One Stop Shop at 951-826-5800 or email [email protected].