ADU Regulations in San Juan Bautista, California (2026)

Regulations at a glance

Local rules & notes

Income Restricted Occupancy: The city's code specifically mandates that secondary units be rented only to low or very low income households. Informal Pre-Application Review: Developers can present tentative plans to the Planning Commission for feedback prior to a formal building application to increase approval rates. Discretionary Fee Waivers: The City allows for the reduction or waiver of development fees based on specific project findings to facilitate affordable housing.

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

Frequently asked questions about ADU regulations in San Juan Bautista

• What is the maximum ADU size in San Juan Bautista, California?

  In San Juan Bautista, the maximum ADU size is typically 600 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; San Juan Bautista may follow state defaults or have local limits. Verify with San Juan Bautista planning for your specific lot.

• What are the setback requirements for ADUs in San Juan Bautista?

  In San Juan Bautista, typical setback requirements are 5 feet from the side property line and 20 feet from the rear. These may be reduced to 4 feet under California Government Code § 65852.2 where applicable. Check with San Juan Bautista planning for overlay zones or design standards that could affect your site.

• What is the maximum height for an ADU in San Juan Bautista?

  In San Juan Bautista, the maximum height for an ADU is generally 15 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 San Juan Bautista or county planning for your zone.

• Is ADU approval ministerial in San Juan Bautista?

  In San Juan Bautista, 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; San Juan Bautista planning can confirm the exact process.

• Are there parking requirements for ADUs in San Juan Bautista?

  In San Juan Bautista, 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 San Juan Bautista planning for your address.