Accessory Dwelling Units

Detached ADU rendering.jpg

The City of Calistoga recognizes that Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADU) can provide affordable housing, accommodate extended family members and facilitate live-in caregivers. ADUs and JADUs are smaller secondary homes on residential properties that provide flexible living options. These units may be created through the conversion of existing space, additions to existing homes, or new detached structures, subject to City standards and applicable building codes. Calistoga property owners may be eligible to build both one ADU and one JADU on a lot with an existing or proposed single-family home. 

Please take a moment to review the information on this page. Many common questions regarding ADU and JADU regulations, permitting requirements, and development standards are addressed below. If you still have questions after reviewing the information, we are happy to assist you.

Key Things to Know

  • A single-family property may have one ADU and one JADU.
  • ADUs may be attached to the primary home, detached, or created by converting existing space and may be up to 1,000 square feet.
  • JADUs are created within the walls of an existing or proposed single-family home and are no more than 500 square feet.
  • Parking is generally not required for ADUs or JADUs on single-family residential lots.
  • ADUs may be rented for periods of 30 days or longer. Development impact fees do not apply to JADUs or ADUs smaller than 750 square feet.

Information & Resources

ADUs are allowed in Calistoga in accordance with State law and Calistoga's Zoning Code.

ADU & JADU Regulations(PDF, 131KB)

ADU Frequently Asked Questions(PDF, 135KB)

ADU Checklist(PDF, 78KB)

Napa Sonoma ADU

Affordable ADU Programs

Looking for help financing your ADU?

Through Napa County's Affordable ADU Program, eligible homeowners may qualify for forgivable loans of up to $105,000 to help build an ADU. In return, the ADU must be rented to an income-qualified tenant at an affordable rate for at least five years. Visit Napa County Housing and Community Services for eligibility requirements and application information.

Potential Future ADU Incentives

The City of Calistoga is exploring potential incentive programs and other strategies to encourage the development of ADUs and support local housing goals. While no City sponsored incentive programs have been adopted at this time, the City Council and Housing Advisory Committee have discussed various options at recent public meetings.

Residents interested in learning more about these discussions may review the related staff reports and meeting materials linked below. Any future incentive programs would be subject to City Council review and approval.

June 10, 2025 City Council Meeting - ADU Incentive Program

April 20, 2026 Housing Advisory Committee Meeting - ADU Ordinance Amendments & Proposed Incentives

May 18, 2026 Housing Advisory Committee Meeting - Additional ADU Incentives

 

Ready to take the next step?

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