ADU Regulations in Kings County, California (2026)

Regulations at a glance

Local rules & notes

Illegal JADU Replacement Parking: The ordinance requires replacement parking when a JADU is created in an attached garage, which is explicitly prohibited by State Law. Illegal Setbacks for Conversions: The ordinance imposes 4-foot setbacks on all ADUs, failing to exempt conversions of existing structures which are entitled to 0-foot setbacks. Restriction on Number of Units: The ordinance limits single-family lots to either one ADU or one JADU, whereas State Law allows for both to exist on the same lot. Missing JADU Efficiency Kitchen Requirement: The ordinance fails to mandate an efficiency kitchen for JADUs, a requirement under state law.

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

Frequently asked questions about ADU regulations in Kings County

• What is the maximum ADU size in Kings County, California?

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

• What are the setback requirements for ADUs in Kings County?

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

• What is the maximum height for an ADU in Kings County?

  In Kings County, 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 Kings County or county planning for your zone.

• Is ADU approval ministerial in Kings County?

  In Kings County, 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; Kings County planning can confirm the exact process.

• Are there parking requirements for ADUs in Kings County?

  In Kings County, 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 Kings County planning for your address.