Pre-Approved ADU Program for Designers

Design Professionals

Submittal Information to Participate in Benicia’s Pre-Approved ADU Program (PADU):

All qualified professionals are invited to submit applications under Benicia's PADU program. Obtain pre-approval by following the steps below:

  • Review Residential Submittal Requirements Checklist for submittal requirements. 
  •  Submit building permit application online via the Benicia Permit Center. “Project Address and Description” shall be input as “Pre-approved ADU Master Plan – (Company Name) – (ADU Model Plan Name)”. All plan options must be noted on the cover page. Note that each model plan shall be submitted as a separate application.

  • Provide a simplified floor plan(s) and elevation(s) jpeg document to be posted on Benicia’s website.         

  • Portions of Benicia are located in flood zone areas (check flood zone here) or located on hillsides. Designers are encouraged to incorporate flood resistant design and hillside foundation options in the plan. PADU plans with flood resistant design and steep sloped foundation options will be applicable to more properties in the City. 
  • Plan review fees will be based on the Benicia Master Fee Schedule.
  • Once the review is approved, a brief description of the size/type of pre-approved ADU plans and vendor contact information will be featured on this webpage until the City adopts new building or zoning codes. Updated plans shall be submitted through the pre-approval permitting process.

PADU plans are only valid for permit applications submitted under the current code cycle. Upon a new code cycle, a new application and updated plans shall be submitted for review and approval to continue participation in the PADU program.

Use this link to submit your plans and applications at the Benicia Permit Center.