ADU Regulations in California City, California (2026)

Regulations at a glance

Local rules & notes

Fire Zone Prohibition for Standard ADUs: Standard ADUs are completely banned in Extreme Foothill/Foothill Fire Hazard Areas (Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone). Only smaller 'Special ADUs' (max 800 sq. ft.) are allowed in these areas. Undergrounding Utilities Fee: Large ADU projects may trigger utility undergrounding requirements. A waiver is available but requires paying a 5% in-lieu fee of total construction costs. Coastal Zone Front Yard Restriction: Until the ADU Ordinance is certified by the Coastal Commission, new detached ADUs in the front yard within the Coastal Zone require a discretionary Zoning Modification. Unpermitted Unit Amnesty: The city allows unpermitted units to be legalized using the building codes in effect at the time of original construction rather than current codes.

For the official ordinance and latest updates, check your city or county planning department.

Frequently asked questions about ADU regulations in California City

• What is the maximum ADU size in California City, California?

  In California City, the maximum ADU size is typically 1200 square feet, depending on whether the unit is attached or detached. California state law allows up to 1,200 sq ft for detached ADUs and 800 sq ft for attached in many jurisdictions; California City may follow state defaults or have local limits. Verify with California City planning for your specific lot.

• What are the setback requirements for ADUs in California City?

  In California City, typical setback requirements are 4 feet from the side property line and 4 feet from the rear. These may be reduced to 4 feet under California Government Code § 65852.2 where applicable. Check with California City planning for overlay zones or design standards that could affect your site.

• What is the maximum height for an ADU in California City?

  In California City, the maximum height for an ADU is generally 30 feet. State law often allows up to 16 feet for detached ADUs and up to 25 feet when within 4 feet of the property line in some cases. Confirm with California City or county planning for your zone.

• Is ADU approval ministerial in California City?

  In California City, ADU approval is typically Ministerial (by-right) per Gov Code §65852.2. Ministerial (by-right) review means the city must approve qualifying applications without discretionary review, per California Gov Code § 65852.2. Your project must still meet objective standards; California City planning can confirm the exact process.

• Are there parking requirements for ADUs in California City?

  In California City, parking for ADUs is generally false. California law often waives parking for ADUs within a half-mile of transit or in certain historic districts. Check with California City planning for your address.