In May of 2017, the City of Alameda Planning Board finalized the amendments to the City of Alameda Zoning Ordinance (AMC Chapter 30), which made it possible for Alameda to enjoy the benefits of a backyard cottage or tiny home- also known as an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU).
As of Jan 1, 2020 the City of Alameda – Local Government has revised their ADU process to reduce the administrative and financial burden of permitting a backyard cottage.
In accord with recent CA State regulatory changes, the City of Alameda has adopted new rules that will allow you to have an ADU even if you have a small lot, need to remove a garage to accommodate a backyard cottage or even if your neighborhood has an HOA.
They even posted this picture at the city permit office. 
🙂
Besides being a great idea for family & friends to visit (or stay), or a potential source of rental income, new ADUs count toward our Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) requirements.
ADUs help provide an important piece of the solution to our housing crisis puzzle!
If you are ready to explore the options please contact us or come to ADU 101: Building A Backyard Cottage in Alameda this Feb. 4, 7-9pm Phoenix Alameda