Pre-Approved Accessory Dwelling Unit Plans

'The Joel' Pre-Approved ADU Design

This program lets property owners use an accessory dwelling unit building plan that has already been reviewed and approved by the building department and meets building codes. The design includes an option between a shed roof or a gable roof, as well as an option between a slab or a raised foundation. 

Prior to moving forward, those interested in building an ADU should contact the City's Planning Department to discuss the siting of the ADU. Setbacks, wetlands, steep slopes, or other constraints could make an ADU not feasible on some properties.

The City of Veneta expresses its appreciation for the City of Eugene, who developed this plan and offered it to Veneta for use at no cost.

Contact Us

  1. Daniel Findlay

    Associate Planner
    Email Daniel Findlay
    More Information

  2. Teresa Warrick

    Building Permits
    Email Teresa Warrick
    More Information

'The Joel' Pre-Approved ADU Design Floor Plan

Pre-Approved Accessory Dwelling Unit Plan Set

  1. Pre-Approved ADU Plan Set
  2. Pre-Approved ADU Program Submittal Checklist

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an accessory dwelling unit?

An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a secondary living space that has its own kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area. ADUs can be attached to the existing home or be its own detached unit. The pre-approved design is for a detached unit.

What does pre-approval mean?

'Pre-approved' means that the ADU has been reviewed for compliance with the building code. The homeowner/developer can skip the building design process, building code plan review, and plan review fee. The next step in the process is the site design. This involves planning where the ADU will be located on the property, how it will be served by utilities, and other items specific to each property.

If I use the pre-approved ADU plans, are there any other fees I will need to pay?

Yes, there are several fees to consider, including building permit fees. If the ADU will be served by separate utilities than the main home, then certain systems development charges (SDC)s will be required. Other costs should also be considered, particularly the cost of construction itself.

Do you have to use one of the pre-approved ADU designs to build an ADU in Veneta?

No, residents can have their own plans developed. However, the City's standard review process would apply.

How much does it cost to build an ADU?

Cost is difficult to estimate. It is based on the design, materials, finishing and many other variables. In general, a detached ADU is the same price per square foot as a single detached home.

Using the Ready-Build ADU Plans

To use the City's ADU plans, follow the steps below.

  1.  Determine the zoning of your property and if an ADU is allowed. We highly recommend contacting the City's Planning Department at 541-935-2191 or at dfindlay@venetaoregon.gov. Review Section 5.31 of the Veneta Zoning and Development Code for standards specific to ADUs.
  2. Download the Pre-Approved ADU Program Submittal Checklist. This will serve as a guide when preparing your building permit submittal.
  3. Create a site plan that indicates the location of the proposed ADU in relation to property lines and other buildings or features on the property.
  4. Select one of the two available foundation styles: slab on grade or crawl space with post and beam floor system.
  5. Select one of the two available roof styles: gable or shed roof. If you select the gable roof, then you will need to provide a manufacturer’s truss layout and stamped truss packet. If you select the shed roof, then a layout from an I-joists manufacturer will be required. These documents are required at the time of building permit submittal.
  6. Apply for the required building permits through ePermitting. For questions about the permitting process and permit requirements, please contact Teresa Warrick, Building Clerk, at 541-935-2191 or at twarrick@venetaoregon.gov. When submitting a pre-approved plan for permits, please identify the plan as part of the pre-approved ADU program in the project description on the application.
  7. Once the plans are approved, you will be notified to pay permit fees. Once paid, the permit will be issued and construction can begin. When ready, inspections may be called in as each stage of construction is completed.