ADU Regulations in Hanford, California (2026)

Regulations at a glance

Local rules & notes

Illegal JADU Replacement Parking: The County Ordinance required replacement parking when a JADU is created in an attached garage. HCD flagged this as a violation of Government Code section 66334, which prohibits such requirements. Ambiguous Multifamily ADU Limits: The Ordinance attempted to limit multifamily lots to either interior ADUs OR detached ADUs. HCD clarified that state law allows for both to be combined on the same lot. Vague Development Standards: The Ordinance attempted to apply all 'R District' standards to ADUs by reference without specificity. HCD rejected this as it could illegally delay or deny permits based on non-compliant local zoning rules.

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

Frequently asked questions about ADU regulations in Hanford

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

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

• What are the setback requirements for ADUs in Hanford?

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

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

  In Hanford, 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 Hanford or county planning for your zone.

• Is ADU approval ministerial in Hanford?

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

• Are there parking requirements for ADUs in Hanford?

  In Hanford, 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 Hanford planning for your address.