ADU Regulations in Chino, California (2026)

Regulations at a glance

Local rules & notes

Illegal Parking Replacement Requirement: The ordinance requires two garage spaces for the primary dwelling be present/replaced prior to ADU permit issuance. HCD explicitly flags this as a violation of the prohibition on correcting nonconforming zoning conditions. Downtown Overlay Setbacks: The city imposes a 15-foot rear setback and 10-foot street side setback in the Downtown overlay district, which exceeds the state maximum of 4 feet. Permit Approval Timeline Language: The ordinance says the director 'shall act' within 60 days, whereas state law requires 'approve or deny'. This ambiguity allows for delays. Separate Sale for Non-Profits: The ordinance prohibits separate sale entirely, failing to include the state-mandated exception for qualified non-profit housing organizations.

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

Frequently asked questions about ADU regulations in Chino

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

  In Chino, 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; Chino may follow state defaults or have local limits. Verify with Chino planning for your specific lot.

• What are the setback requirements for ADUs in Chino?

  In Chino, typical setback requirements are 5 feet from the side property line and 15 feet from the rear. These may be reduced to 4 feet under California Government Code § 65852.2 where applicable. Check with Chino planning for overlay zones or design standards that could affect your site.

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

  In Chino, 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 Chino or county planning for your zone.

• Is ADU approval ministerial in Chino?

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

• Are there parking requirements for ADUs in Chino?

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