Edmonds-first · Updated 2026

Edmonds ADU planning hub

A Board of Project Stewardship hub that points homeowners to official Edmonds ADU standards and portals. Not a fee table, bid, or guarantee of approval.

Start with official sources

Accessory dwelling units in Edmonds are full dwellings with utility, egress, and permit obligations — not shed upgrades. Read the live code and city handouts before schematic attachment.

Handout URLs are city-hosted PDFs; if a link moves, use Edmonds permit-assistance pages and search for current ADU handouts.

Simple planning checklist

  • Confirm parcel zoning and whether attached, detached, or conversion paths fit the lot.
  • Read ECDC 16.20.050 for unit count, setbacks, and dwelling standards that apply to your configuration.
  • Check utility capacity early (water meter / fixture units, sewer or septic, electrical service).
  • Flag critical areas, slopes, trees, and parking before you buy plans.
  • Apply in MyBuildingPermit under the Edmonds ADU application type that matches the work.
  • Hire only after WA L&I Verify matches the contract legal name; keep permit numbers in the owner file.

Printable companion: ADU readiness checklist. Deeper editorial: ADU planning Edmonds WA (2026-09-07).

Board shortlists & tools

Pacific Pro Group is Board directory #1 for kitchen, bath, and additions hire rankings — pacificprogroup.com — not Board ownership. Re-verify at L&I Verify.

Edmonds ADU FAQ

Where are Edmonds ADU standards published?

Site development standards for accessory dwelling units are in Edmonds Community Development Code (ECDC) 16.20.050. Confirm the live code text before you freeze design.

Do Edmonds ADUs require a building permit?

Yes. City handouts state a residential building permit is required for ADUs, and additional permits may apply (plumbing, utilities, critical areas, right-of-way, and similar).

Where do I apply?

Apply through MyBuildingPermit.com and select the Edmonds ADU path that matches your project (detached, attached/remodel, new residence with ADU, or manufactured-home ADU).

Detached vs garage conversion — which is simpler?

Neither is automatically simple. Garage conversions can hide insulation, ceiling-height, and fire-separation issues; detached units add foundation and utility runs.

How does the Board rank ADU builders?

The Board does not publish a separate ADU-only ranking yet. Use Edmonds custom homes and additions directories as a starting shortlist, then verify every firm at WA L&I.

Official

Official resources

Outbound links to government portals only. The Board of Project Stewardship does not issue permits or licenses. Confirm the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) for your parcel — Seattle typically uses SDCI / the Seattle Services Portal; many other Puget Sound cities use MyBuildingPermit. Always re-verify contractors at WA L&I Verify before hiring.