Frequently Asked Questions

An Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) is a separate living quarters containing kitchen facilities, where the living quarters are contained within or detached from a single-family dwelling on a single lot. (BIMC 18.36.030.10)

A ‘pre-approved’ ADU plan has been designed to meet the City’s building code and design guidelines. This helps expedite the review process and eliminates design costs for the user.

Anyone can use a pre-approved ADU plan in Bainbridge Island at no cost. This means you won’t need to pay an architect and structural engineer  to use the pre-approved designs. 

There are several additional fees to consider, including, but not limited to, building permit and plan review fees and utility connections, for example. The fees cover the costs of reviewing your applications, permits and inspections. Final permit fees will be calculated at the time of payment.

The first step in getting started with any development project is identifying and researching the project site. Next, select a pre-approved ADU plan from the options currently available and complete and submit the plan request form. Gather the necessary information to prepare and submit the application packet. At any point in the process, contact the Planning & Community Development Department staff for information or questions regarding zoning requirements, critical areas, and other land use considerations. City of Bainbridge Island staff will perform the required project review; during the review period, monitor outreach and follow-up on any information requests required for review. If the project meets the conditions of the review, notice will be sent with instructions to receive the permit and start construction.