ADUs in Clovis, CA

Clovis has backed small backyard homes for years. Its programs can shorten design, but only if the plan fits your lot.

What is the Clovis Cottage Home Program?

It is a city program that made small backyard homes easier to build. According to the program document published by HCD, Clovis began offering three cottage plans in August 2017 for alley-access lots in Old Town. The plans were free to qualifying owners and included fee-waived plan checks.

The cottages were designed at under about 450 sq ft of living area, facing the alley. Local news later reported the program was expanded. We confirm with the city whether your lot qualifies today.

What did the program require?

A lot inside the program boundary, with alley access.
Room for the cottage and one parking space.
Access to utilities.
An introductory meeting with city staff to review placement.

Does Clovis have other pre-approved ADU plans?

Yes. As of October 2026, the City of Clovis lists pre-approved ADU plans that you pick by Standard ADU Plan Number. Each plan set allows up to four options, and changes beyond those need another review. You still submit a building permit application, a release and waiver form, and a site plan for your lot. A separate fire sprinkler plan goes to the Fire Department for review.

What usually matters on a Clovis lot?

Alley access. In Old Town, an alley can give a cottage its own address side and entry.
Plan options. Staying within a plan's listed options keeps review simple.
Sprinklers. The Clovis process routes sprinkler plans separately, so we plan for that step early.

Should I use a Clovis plan or design custom?

It depends on the footprint. A pre-approved plan saves design time when it fits the yard and your goals. A garage conversion or attached ADU always needs custom drawings. We sketch the plan on your site plan first and tell you whether it fits.

Find out what fits on your Clovis lot

Send your Clovis address. We check the city's plan options and whether one fits your yard.