ADU Rules in Moreno Valley

Moreno Valley permits Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Junior ADUs (JADUs) on residential properties under California state law (Government Code §65852.2) and the city's ADU ordinance (Municipal Code Section 9.09.130, Ordinance No. 999). The city actively encourages ADU construction and offers pre-approved ADU plans to simplify the process.

What You Can Build

Single-Family Lots (R1–R5, HR)

• One ADU (attached or detached) plus one JADU per lot
• Detached ADU: up to 1,200 square feet
• JADU: up to 500 square feet within existing structure
• No minimum lot size required

Multifamily Lots (R10–R30)

• Conversion ADUs: Up to 25% of existing units (minimum 1)
• Detached ADUs: Up to 2 new detached ADUs per property

Size Limits

Setbacks

• Front setback: Must comply with base zone (see Table 9.03.040)
• Side setback: 4 feet minimum for detached ADU
• Rear setback: 4 feet minimum for detached ADU
• Conversion exception: Existing structures converted to ADUs maintain current setbacks

Height

• Detached ADU: 16 feet maximum
• Attached ADU: Must not exceed height of primary dwelling
• Near transit: Up to 18 feet within ½ mile of a major transit stop
• Multifamily lots: Up to 25 feet for ADUs on multi-family zoned properties

Parking

No additional parking is required under state law in most situations, including when the ADU is:

• Within half a mile of a public transit stop
• A conversion from existing space
• Located where a garage is demolished or converted

Owner Occupancy

• ADUs: Not required (per AB 976)
• JADUs: Owner must occupy either the JADU or primary residence

Rental Requirements

• Long-term rentals (30+ days) are permitted
• A business license is required for ADU rentals
• Short-term vacation rentals (less than 30 days) are prohibited

Pre-Approved Plans

Moreno Valley offers pre-approved detached ADU plans to streamline the permitting process. Using a pre-approved plan can significantly reduce review time since the plans have already been checked for code compliance. Available options include studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom layouts.

Permit Process

ADU permits are processed through ministerial review — no public hearing or discretionary approval required.

1. Verify zoning: Check your property using the Map Viewer (MV2)
2. Choose plans: Select from pre-approved plans or prepare custom plans
3. Submit application: File with the Community Development Department
4. Plan review: 60-day maximum for complete applications
5. Permit issuance: Receive building permit and begin construction
6. Inspections: Schedule required inspections during construction
7. Final approval: Certificate of Occupancy upon passing final inspection

Contact the Planning Division at (951) 413-3206 for questions.

Fees and Costs

• ADUs under 750 square feet are exempt from development impact fees
• Building permit and plan check fees apply
• Using pre-approved plans may reduce plan check fees
• Utility connection fees may apply for detached ADUs

Key Considerations

• Moreno Valley uses a density-based zone naming system — the number indicates max dwelling units per acre (R5 = 5 du/acre, R10 = 10 du/acre)
• Higher-density zones (R10–R30) require Planned Unit Development (PUD) approval for the primary development, but ADUs are still permitted by right
• Solar panels are required on new detached ADUs per California Energy Code
• Fire sprinklers are required only if the primary dwelling also has sprinklers
• The city's 2040 General Plan Update was rescinded per a 2024 court order — verify zoning with the Planning Division

Official Resources

• Moreno Valley ADU Information
• Moreno Valley ADU FAQ
• Moreno Valley Municipal Code Title 9 (eCode360)
• Moreno Valley Map Viewer
• California Government Code §65852.2