ADU Regulations in Calimesa, California (2026)

Regulations at a glance

Local rules & notes

Parks Maintenance District Requirement: Owners must annex into the Parks Maintenance District or fund an endowment because the ADU increases the need for park services. New Address Request Pre-requisite: A formal address request must be processed and approved via the SimpliCITY portal before the actual ADU plan application can be submitted. Garage Conversion Vapor Barrier: Specific mandate for a 6 mil vapor barrier and top-coat slab for garage conversions to address slope and moisture. MSHCP Fee: A pass-through Multi-Species Habitat Conservation Plan fee applies to ADUs 750 sqft or larger.

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

Frequently asked questions about ADU regulations in Calimesa

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

  In Calimesa, the maximum ADU size is typically 1000 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; Calimesa may follow state defaults or have local limits. Verify with Calimesa planning for your specific lot.

• What are the setback requirements for ADUs in Calimesa?

  In Calimesa, 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 Calimesa planning for overlay zones or design standards that could affect your site.

• What is the maximum height for an ADU in Calimesa?

  In Calimesa, the maximum height for an ADU is generally 16 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 Calimesa or county planning for your zone.

• Is ADU approval ministerial in Calimesa?

  In Calimesa, 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; Calimesa planning can confirm the exact process.

• Are there parking requirements for ADUs in Calimesa?

  In Calimesa, parking for ADUs is generally Often waived per state law; check local ordinance. California law often waives parking for ADUs within a half-mile of transit or in certain historic districts. Check with Calimesa planning for your address.