Detached ADU (DADU) Permits in City of Tacoma
A standalone backyard cottage with its own foundation, roof, and exterior. Maximum flexibility on layout; highest construction cost. State law bars a city maximum below 1,000 sq ft of gross floor area, except on lots with critical areas (RCW 36.70A.681).
Drops the placement canvas on your parcel for detached adu (dadu) scope. Live setback + coverage + easement checks; packet generation when you’re ready.
Permit fees in City of Tacoma
Fee schedule not yet aggregated — check the City of Tacoma fee schedule directly.
City of Tacoma fee scheduleApply via https://aca-prod.accela.com/tacoma/Default.aspx (Accela ACA portal) or in person at 747 Market Street, 3rd Floor.
Review timeline
Typical: 21–60 business days
What a DADU permit packet contains
- A1.1 — Site plan with rotated footprint, setbacks, coverage
- A2.1 — Floor plan with rooms, openings, egress
- A3.1 — Elevations (all four faces, dim strings)
- A4.1 / A4.2 — Foundation + framing plans
- A5.1 — Wall section with WSEC R-values
- A6.0 — Glazing schedule (NFRC U-factor + SHGC)
- Filled application forms (city-specific)
- Manual J energy compliance report