Two Detached ADUs in Pleasanton (AB 956, 2027)
Plan Two ADUs in Pleasanton: Free Site Assessment
Pleasanton ADU rules today (2026)
From January 1, 2027, state law (AB 956) requires cities, including Pleasanton, to approve up to two detached ADUs on a lot with a single-family home. Pleasanton’s detached ADU size limits are lower than most of its neighbors, and the city published an updated ADU handout in May 2026. Here is how its rules meet the new law.
- Units allowed now: the city’s May 2026 handout lists one attached ADU, one detached ADU and one JADU. The city’s ADU code (PMC Ch. 18.106, last amended by Ordinance 2277, May 7, 2024) reads as one ADU plus one JADU. We confirm this with the city for each lot.
- Sizes: detached up to 850 sq ft (studio or one bedroom) or 1,000 sq ft (two or more bedrooms). Attached up to 50% of the home with the same caps. JADUs 150 to 500 sq ft.
- Height: 16 ft for a detached ADU; 18 ft within a half mile of transit, plus 2 ft for roof pitch. A second-story attached ADU may reach 25 ft.
- Setbacks: 4 ft side and rear for a detached ADU, and 10 ft street-side if it is over 800 sq ft.
- Parking: one space, tandem or in setbacks, with the standard exemptions. No garage replacement. None for a JADU.
- Process: submit through the Building & Safety portal. The city’s ADU code provides ministerial review within 60 days.
- Preapproved plans: detached plans of 800 sq ft (two bedrooms, two baths) and 999 sq ft (three bedrooms, two baths), reviewed in 7 business days instead of 15.
What changes on January 1, 2027
AB 956 raises the number of detached ADUs Pleasanton must approve on a single-family lot from one to two, both new construction. Each may be limited to 800 sq ft of living space, local height limits can still apply, and side and rear setbacks can be no more than 4 ft. Where two detached ADUs are built, a JADU on the same lot does not have to be approved. The law also includes protections for owners in homeowners associations.
Pleasanton allows one detached ADU today. Its 850 and 1,000 sq ft detached caps are close to the 800 sq ft each unit may be held to in a two-unit project. The city’s 800 sq ft preapproved plan already fits that size. Units over 800 sq ft also trigger a 10 ft street-side setback, so 800 sq ft units are simpler on corner lots. Pleasanton will need to update its ordinance, and we will confirm the current rules as it does.
Recent Axiom work
Professional photos from a recent Axiom Renovation full remodel and addition in Los Gatos.
Planning two detached ADUs on a Pleasanton lot
- Screening: an ADU within 10 ft of an interior side or rear line needs a 6 ft solid fence plus plants that reach 10 ft at maturity. With two units at 4 ft setbacks, plan screening from the start.
- Privacy: no balconies or upper decks. Second-story windows within 25 ft of a property line need a 5 ft sill or frosted glass.
- Floor area and open space: the city’s ADU code applies floor area ratio and a minimum of 80 sq ft of open space.
- Trees: the site plan must show any trees proposed for removal.
- Sprinklers: an ADU needs sprinklers if the main house has them.
- Electrical: two ADUs usually need a load calculation and often a service upgrade.
Building ADUs in Pleasanton with Axiom
See our Pleasanton ADU builder page and our Pleasanton service area, read the AB 956 overview, or compare neighboring Dublin and Livermore.
Process
Our ADU Process
Step 1
Initial Consultation
We begin with a thorough initial consultation to understand your needs, assess your space, and discuss your vision, budget, and timeline.
Step 2
Planning and Design
At Axiom Renovation, we understand that the planning and design phase of an ADU project is crucial to its success. Our dedicated project managers will work closely with you to understand your goals, design ideas and budget for the project.
Step 3
Material Selection
We guide you through selecting high-quality materials that fit your design and budget, ensuring durability and aesthetic appeal.
Step 4
Demolition and Preparation
Careful demolition and preparation work are performed to ready the space for construction, minimizing disruptions and ensuring a clean work environment.
Step 5
Construction and Installation
Our skilled craftsmen handle the construction phase, including obtaining permits, scheduling appointments, and the actual construction and installation with precision, building the new space according to the approved design.
Step 6
Electrical and Plumbing Work
Licensed professionals conduct all electrical and plumbing work, ensuring everything is up to code and seamlessly integrated into the new ADU.
Step 7
Painting and Finishing
We pay close attention to detail during the painting and finishing stage, ensuring all surfaces are properly prepared and beautifully finished.
Step 8
Fixture and Appliance Installation
We expertly install all fixtures and appliances, ensuring they function correctly and fit perfectly with the overall design.
Step 9
Final Touches and Clean-Up
Final touches are added, and a thorough clean-up is performed, leaving your new space pristine and ready for use.
Step 10
Final Walkthrough and Client Satisfaction
We conduct a final walkthrough with you to ensure every detail meets your expectations and address any remaining concerns, ensuring your complete satisfaction.
Pleasanton Two-ADU FAQ
Can I build two detached ADUs in Pleasanton?
From January 1, 2027, AB 956 requires Pleasanton to approve up to two detached, new-construction ADUs on a single-family lot that meets objective standards. Today the city allows one detached ADU along with a JADU.
How large can each ADU be in Pleasanton?
Today a detached ADU can be 850 sq ft with up to one bedroom or 1,000 sq ft with two or more. Under AB 956, the city may limit each of two detached ADUs to 800 sq ft of living space.
How tall can a detached ADU be in Pleasanton?
16 ft, or 18 ft within a half mile of transit, plus 2 ft for a roof pitch.
Does Pleasanton have preapproved ADU plans?
Yes. Pleasanton lists preapproved detached plans of 800 sq ft and 999 sq ft. They are reviewed in 7 business days instead of 15.
Do I need a fence for an ADU in Pleasanton?
If the ADU is within 10 ft of an interior side or rear property line, yes. The city requires a 6 ft solid fence plus plants that reach 10 ft at maturity.
Who builds two-ADU projects in Pleasanton?
Axiom Renovation designs, permits and builds ADUs in Pleasanton and is planning two-unit projects for 2027. Call 408-702-2022, Monday to Friday, 9 am to 5 pm.
Sources: AB 956 (Quirk-Silva), signed September 29, 2026, effective January 1, 2027, as summarized by Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck and California YIMBY; Pleasanton ADU handout, May 2026; Pleasanton preapproved ADUs. This page is general information, not legal advice. Local rules change; we confirm current requirements with the city for every project.