ADU Rules in Santa Clarita

Santa Clarita permits Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Junior ADUs (JADUs) on residential properties under California state law (Government Code §65852.2) and the city's Unified Development Code (UDC, Title 17). The city's ADU Handout provides a summary of requirements.

What You Can Build

Single-Family Lots (NU1–NU5, UR1–UR2)

• One ADU (attached or detached) plus one JADU per lot
• Detached ADU: up to 850 sq ft (0–1 bedroom) or 1,000 sq ft (2+ bedrooms)
• Attached ADU: up to 50% of existing residence or 1,200 sq ft, whichever is less
• JADU: up to 500 square feet within existing structure

Multifamily Lots (UR3–UR5)

• 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 (20 ft for NU and UR zones)
• Side setback: 4 feet minimum for detached ADU
• Rear setback: 4 feet minimum for detached ADU
• Conversion exception: Existing structures maintain current setbacks

Height

• Detached ADU: Up to 16 feet
• Attached ADU: Up to 25 feet
• Near transit: Up to 18 feet for detached ADUs within ½ mile of a major transit stop

Parking

One parking space per ADU may be required. Parking is not required when:

• The ADU is within half a mile of a public transit stop
• Within a historic district
• A conversion from existing space
• A garage is demolished or converted for the ADU

Tandem parking in the driveway and uncovered spaces are acceptable.

Owner Occupancy

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

Rental Restrictions

ADUs must be rented for terms of 30 days or longer. Short-term vacation rentals are prohibited.

Permit Process

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

1. Verify zoning: Check your property using the city's GIS maps or contact Planning at (661) 255-4330
2. Plan preparation: Prepare plans meeting California Building Code and Title 24 requirements
3. Submit application: File with the Community Development Department, Planning Division
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 (661) 255-4330.

Fees and Costs

• ADUs under 750 square feet are exempt from development impact fees
• Building permit and plan check fees apply
• Utility connection fees may apply for detached ADUs

Key Considerations

• Santa Clarita uses NU/UR zone codes instead of traditional R-1/C-1 — verify your zone in the UDC
• Check for Special Standards District requirements in Happy Valley, Placerita Canyon, and Sand Canyon
• The Vehicle Services Overlay may affect properties along commercial corridors
• Buildings over 2 stories or 35 feet require a Conditional Use Permit — this affects ADU height planning
• Solar panels are required on new detached ADUs per California Energy Code
• Fire sprinklers required only if the primary dwelling has them
• Check FEMA flood maps before building

Official Resources

• Santa Clarita ADU Handout (PDF)
• Santa Clarita Unified Development Code (Title 17)
• Santa Clarita Planning Division
• California Government Code §65852.2