LODI, San Joaquin County — October 23, 2026. Lodi property owners interested in building a backyard home can avoid part of the initial design expense: the city advertises four accessory dwelling unit (ADU) floor plans available at no charge to residents building within city limits. But a free set of drawings is not a free house — and it does not waive site-specific permitting. The city’s official ADU resource page lists the plans and a separate application package.
The four available layouts
Residents can compare a 375-square-foot studio with one bathroom, a 550-square-foot one-bedroom with one bathroom, a 775-square-foot two-bedroom with one bathroom and a 908-square-foot two-bedroom with one bathroom. Whether any of these units fits a lot depends on setbacks, existing structures, fire access, utilities and local development rules.
Free plan access still requires paperwork
Before receiving the free city drawings, applicants must complete a Hold Harmless Agreement, available in English and Spanish. The official guide also links a building-permit application and sample site plan. Applicants should distinguish a detached ADU, an attached ADU, a garage conversion and a junior ADU: the city explains that a JADU normally stays within an existing single-family residence and has additional rules concerning owner occupancy and kitchen or bathroom facilities.
Why the 2026 code change matters
On its 2025 Building Code Adoption page, Lodi states that updated California building standards took effect January 1, 2026. Those standards include residential safety, materials, energy and wildfire-related requirements. A drawing or contractor estimate prepared under the previous code cycle may require updates before a new application is accepted. The online code page includes draft amendment documents, which should not be confused with adopted requirements; ask the city for the final operative version.
What costs might still arise?
Buyers should calculate site preparation, foundation or structural work, utility connections, water and sewer service, electrical upgrades, inspections, applicable agency and school fees, and required plan revisions. A free design saves only a defined portion of the process. Avoid signing a project contract that promises construction can begin immediately just because the house plan is “preapproved.”
How to check a specific property
Use the official ADU webpage and contact the Community Development Building Division at 209-333-6714 or comdev@lodi.gov for the current checklist, fees, code cycle and parcel restrictions. Nearby regional coverage is available from Stockton News. Submit source-backed updates or corrections to Lodi News; support independent local reporting.
Primary sources: City of Lodi Accessory Dwelling Units, official plan program, and 2025 California Building Code Adoption pages. Independent consumer service journalism, not a building permit or construction quote.
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